Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea): 20 Incredible Benefits, Foraging Tips, and Homemade Uses

Most people walk past ground ivy every day without realizing they’re stepping over a powerful herbal remedy. This creeping plant, often dismissed as a weed, hides a long history of traditional healing uses and can be easily foraged in the wild.

Whether you know it as ground ivy, creeping charlie, or gill-over-the-ground, this plant belongs to the mint family and has been used for centuries to support the body in natural ways. Here’s everything you need to know about its benefits, how to find it, and how to use it safely at home.

🌿 20 Benefits of Ground Ivy

1. Eases congestion and sinus infections
Ground ivy has natural decongestant properties that help clear mucus from the sinuses.

2. Soothes coughs and bronchitis
Used as a tea, it supports the respiratory system and may calm persistent coughing.

3. Reduces inflammation
Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for internal and external swelling.

4. Promotes wound healing
Topical application can help disinfect and speed up minor wound healing.

5. Acts as a gentle pain reliever
Traditionally used to ease headaches, joint pain, and muscle tension.

6. Supports healthy digestion
Helps relieve bloating, gas, and mild indigestion.

7. Mild diuretic effect
Encourages urination to help the body eliminate excess fluids and toxins.

8. Natural antioxidant
Contains compounds that help combat oxidative stress and support cellular health.

9. Eases earaches
Historically, ground ivy juice or infused oil was dropped into the ear to relieve pain.

10. Calms irritated skin
A ground ivy poultice can soothe rashes, insect bites, and minor skin conditions.

11. May support liver health
Traditionally used in liver-supporting remedies in European herbalism.

12. Reduces eye puffiness
An old remedy involved cooled ground ivy tea used as a compress.

13. Astringent for skin
Tightens tissues and can help with minor cuts and scrapes.

14. Helps with mild urinary tract irritation
Its diuretic and soothing nature may ease urinary discomfort.

15. Supports the lymphatic system
Believed to help stimulate lymph drainage when used regularly.

16. May ease menstrual discomfort
Traditionally used to soothe cramps and reduce tension.

17. Fights oral bacteria
A tea used as a mouthwash may help reduce bacteria in the mouth.

18. Tones the digestive tract
Balances the stomach and intestinal lining when consumed in small doses.

19. Stimulates appetite
Sometimes used to gently encourage eating during recovery or illness.

20. Natural pest repellent
The scent may help deter some insects when crushed and rubbed on skin or clothing.

🍃 How to Forage Ground Ivy Safely

Where it grows:
Ground ivy thrives in shaded areas, lawns, field edges, and woodland paths — especially in spring and early summer.

What to look for:

Low-growing plant with creeping stems
Round, scalloped leaves arranged oppositely on square stems
Small purple or bluish funnel-shaped flowers in spring
Slight minty aroma when crushed

Tips for foraging:

Only pick from clean, unsprayed areas (avoid roadsides and pet areas)
Choose young leaves and flowers for the best taste and potency
Avoid confusion with other similar-looking plants — ground ivy has a unique combination of scalloped leaves and mint-like smell

🍵 Homemade Uses of Ground Ivy

1. Tea for colds and congestion
Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried or fresh leaves in a cup of hot water for 5–10 minutes. Strain and sip.

2. Poultice for skin
Crush fresh leaves and apply directly to cuts, bites, or sore areas.

3. Infused oil for earaches or skin
Dry the plant slightly, then steep it in olive oil for 2–4 weeks in a sealed jar. Strain and use a few drops as needed.

4. Herbal compress
Soak a clean cloth in cooled ground ivy tea and apply to swollen eyes or sore muscles.

5. Mouth rinse
Let tea cool and use as a rinse to support oral health.

6. Herbal bath soak
Add a handful of ground ivy (fresh or dried) to your bath to ease tension and support skin health.

⚠️ Important Precautions

Avoid using ground ivy in large doses or over long periods.
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
If you’re taking diuretics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other medications, consult a healthcare provider before use.
Always test a small amount first to rule out allergic reactions.

Ground ivy is more than just a backyard weed — it’s a powerful and versatile herb that’s easy to identify, simple to use, and full of benefits for the body. Whether you sip it as tea, apply it to the skin, or infuse it in oil, it’s worth giving this humble plant a second look.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified health professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have medical conditions or are on medication.