Couch Grass (Elymus repens) vs Gravel Root (Eupatorium purpureum)

Couch Grass (Elymus repens)

Gravel Root (Eupatorium purpureum)

About

Couch grass is a vigorous perennial growing to 32 inches with a long, creeping rhizome, slender leaves, and erect spikes bearing green flowers aligned in two rows. Found in Europe, the Americas, northern Asia, and Australia, it is an invasive weed harvested throughout the year. In times of famine, the root was roasted and ground as a substitute for coffee and flour.

Gravel root is an erect perennial growing to 5 feet with whorls of pointed oblong leaves and clusters of purple-pink florets. Native to eastern North America, the root is unearthed in autumn. The plant's alternative name, Joe Pye weed, honors a Native American named Joe Pye. The root was listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the United States from 1820 to 1842.

Safety & precautions

Ask a qualified professional before medicinal use.

Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Not recommended for long-term use or for pregnant or nursing women due to potential liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Use only for short-term treatment under professional guidance.

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