The Artistic Farmer

Agropyron repens. Poaceae                                                                      

Found on wasteland and in pastures and gardens, couch grass or twitch grass is considered a most troublesome weed. Its leaves are long, coarse and very tough; its roots are runner-form, white and fleshy and jointed; flower spikes are brownish, Dogs eat this grass with relish to cleanse themselves through mouth and bowels, so called “ Dog Grass.” Cats also eat it.

Use, internal:

Known for many beneficial effects, also a good spring tonic. For all urinary ailments, including inflammation of kidneys and bladder, bladder or kidney stones, gravel, bladder infections, cystitis. Also jaundice, gallstones, constipation.

Dose:

The leaves can be boiled quickly ( like spinach ) and eaten; they will have to be well chewed, as they are tough. Or a strong brew made from the root for a lighter brew use the leaves, a heaped tablespoonful of roots or leaves( cut in small pieces ) in one half cups of water. Bring the cold water to a boil, simmer for three minutes, allow to steep well, and take cupfuls, sweetened with honey or molasses, one cup in the morning and night.