Woodruff Tea

🌿 Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

Also known as: Sweet Woodruff • Master of the Woods • Bedstraw • Waldmeister (German)
Family: Rubiaceae (Coffee Family)
Origin: Central and Northern Europe
Parts Used: Aerial parts (Leaves & Stems)
Primary Use: Calming Nervine • Circulatory Support • Digestive Tonic • Aromatic Culinary Herb

✨ Description

Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a fragrant woodland herb once prized by monks, herbalists, and perfumers alike. Its small star-shaped leaves form elegant whorls, and when dried, it releases a sweet, hay-like vanilla scent — the result of its natural coumarin compounds, which give the plant its signature aroma and mild sedative properties.

In traditional European herbalism, Woodruff was used as a spring tonic to cleanse and refresh the blood after winter, gently stimulating circulation and calming the nervous system. It was also a symbol of protection, joy, and love, often used to scent linens, wine, and ritual spaces.

This herb brings a sense of peace and balance, both physically and emotionally — grounding the mind, relaxing the body, and softening the edges of stress.

💪 Internal Uses & Benefits

• Calming Nervine: Promotes relaxation, restful sleep, and emotional balance.
• Circulatory Support: Gently improves blood flow and strengthens capillaries.
• Digestive Aid: Mildly stimulates digestion, easing stomach discomfort and bloating.
• Liver & Lymphatic Tonic: Traditionally used to purify the blood and support spring detoxification.
• Antispasmodic: Helps soothe cramps and tension, particularly during menstruation or stress.

How to Use:

• Tea: Steep 1 tsp of dried Woodruff in 1 cup hot water for 10–15 minutes. Drink up to 2 times daily for calmness or digestive support.
• Infusion for Sleep: Combine Woodruff with Chamomile and Lemon Balm before bedtime for a gentle, floral sedative tea.
• Wine Infusion (Traditional): Steep a small handful of Woodruff in white wine overnight — the classic Maibowle of Germany — enjoyed in spring as a festive tonic.

Pairs Well With:

• Chamomile or Lemon Balm: For relaxation and improved sleep quality.
• Nettle or Dandelion: For gentle detox and spring tonics.
• Rose or Linden: To balance emotions and calm the heart.
• Spearmint or Orange Peel: To enhance digestive support and flavor.

💨 External & Topical Use

• Aromatic Sachets: Dried Woodruff is often placed in drawers or hung in rooms to naturally perfume the air and repel insects.
• Baths: Add a handful to warm bathwater for a soothing, aromatic soak that calms nerves and softens the skin.
• Skincare: Infusions can be used as a gentle toner or facial rinse for tired or dull skin.

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Element: Air & Earth
Chakra Alignment: Heart & Crown

Woodruff carries gentle, harmonizing energy that promotes peace, self-love, and spiritual connection. It’s often used in love charms, protection pouches, and prosperity rituals, as it symbolizes abundance and serenity. In folklore, it was strewn on church floors and beds to ward off negativity and invite blessings.

Energetic Signature: Sweet, peaceful, grounding.
Affirmation:

“I am surrounded by peace and comfort. My heart is calm, and my spirit is restored.”

🌾 Harvest & Sourcing

Our Sweet Woodruff is wildcrafted in shaded European woodlands, where it thrives under tall trees in rich, moist soil. Harvested in spring before flowering, it is carefully air-dried to preserve its fragrance and color. The scent deepens as it cures, creating a beautiful herbal perfume that lasts for months.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

• Taste: Sweet, grassy, aromatic, reminiscent of vanilla and fresh hay.
• Energetic Profile: Cooling, slightly drying, harmonizing.

⚠️ Warnings

• Not recommended for pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Use in moderation; excessive consumption may cause headaches or dizziness due to coumarin content.
• Avoid internal use with anticoagulant medications or bleeding disorders.
• Always consult an herbalist or healthcare professional before prolonged use.

🌻 A Note from the Herbalist

Woodruff is a gentle healer with a joyful spirit. I love to include it in teas and bath blends for relaxation, and in room sachets to fill a space with its comforting scent. Its presence soothes tension, clears emotional clutter, and uplifts the heart — a perfect ally for those seeking calm after long periods of stress or overwork.

“Woodruff teaches the sweetness of rest — reminding us that healing can also be soft, fragrant, and full of grace.”