Why is woodruff illegal?
This is due to the presence of coumarin, an aromatic chemical compound, banned as a food additive in some countries after studies found it to be toxic to rats and mice. When I made my garden, I accidentally brought along some woodruff. Sweet woodruff contains chemicals that might help heal wounds and burns. People use sweet woodruff for high blood pressure, insomnia, migraine headache, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.Side Effects and Warnings Although not well documented in the scientific literature, sweet woodruff may cause headaches, mind-altering effects, vertigo, somnolence, central paralysis apnea (to stop breathing), or coma when consumed in high doses. Sweet woodruff may also increase the risk of bleeding.Sweet woodruff contains coumarin, a natural compound that can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Coumarin is known to have anticoagulant properties, which can affect blood clotting.Sweet woodruff is sometimes used to relieve nerve pain (neuralgia) and migraine; cause sweating; loosen chest congestion; and increase the flow of urine to relieve water retention. Some people apply sweet woodruff directly to the affected areas for skin diseases, wounds, vein problems, hemorrhoids, and swelling.
What is the magical use of Woodruff?
Metaphysical Properties & Mythology In the metaphysical realm, Sweet Woodruff is associated with protection, love, and connection to the divine. It’s often used in spells and rituals to bring clarity, enhance dreams, and shield against negative energies. In the Middle Ages, sweet woodruff was used to treat a number of ailments, and in modern herbal medicine it is used as an anti-inflammatory and diuretic. As a culinary herb, sweet woodruff is used to flavor ice cream, tea, and, of course, May wine.
Can sweet woodruff be walked on?
While it spreads, it does not grow as a dense mat. Rather, other plants can grow through its foliage. I love sweet woodruff for its look under trees and around shady areas with spring blooming bulbs. But it does not tolerate foot traffic well. Sweet woodruff grows naturally in damp UK and continental European woodlands, especially in chalky areas. In the garden it grows best in moist but well-drained soil in partial or full shade, though it will tolerate dry shade.Plant it under larger trees or shrubs, where few other plants thrive so competition is not a concern. It is not susceptible to juglone, so will do just fine under walnut trees. Sweet woodruff in full bloom. Sweet woodruff does well in partial to full shade.