Sweet Woodruff Asperula odorata, Galium oderatum*
Folklore/Common Names: Wuderove, Wood-rova, Herb Walter, Muge-de-boys french, Master of the Woods
Parts Used: Whole Ariel (above ground) Herb
History & Folklore
We find the herb listed as early as the 1200's as Wuderove or Woodderowffe; it is speculated that the 'rove' was of the French rovelle or wheel, and was thus descriptive of the plants round whorl of leaves. In Germany, it is known as Waldmeister or Master of the Forest, and was a staple in preparing the May wines that welcomed Spring in early celebrations.
Early medieval churches were prepared for the holidays by hanging bunches of Sweet Woodruff and using it as a strewing herb. Grieve tells us in A Modern Herbal, "on St. Barnabas Day and on St. Peter's, bunches of box, Woodruff, lavender and roses found a place there. "
Often Sweet Woodruff was combined with Lady's Bedstraw when stuffing mattresses and bedding. By Elizabethan times, it was a common addition to wreaths, garlands, tussie-mussies and sachets. The dried herb was kept among linens as a functional perfume...it served to protect the linens from insects as well.
According to folklore, Sweet Woodruff symbolizes humility and shyness, in that it stays so close to the ground.
For a time, Sweet Woodruff was a favorite scent in perfumes and included in snuffs.
Medicinal Use
Caution: No Longer For Internal Use The FDA now considers Sweet Woodruff safe only as an addition to alcoholic beverages, and not for internal consumption which can cause, in high amounts, vomiting, dizziness, as well as liver damage and retardation of growth. The following information is for historical notation only!
Sweet Woodruff's medicinal uses can be traced back to the Middle Ages as well. Fresh leaves applied to cuts and bruises were said to promote healing, and decoctions were used for stomach, heart and liver ailments. In later years, Sweet Woodruff was used to treat jaundice and nervous ailments as well.
In modern times, herbalists do not recommend Sweet Woodruff for internal use. Today, the aromatic benefits of the herb are primarily what are encouraged!
I'll be back in two weeks with more information on just how to enjoy those other benefits of Sweet Woodruff, as well as including it in the shade garden, and some folklore and magical uses as well. See you then!
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