Everything You Need to Know About

Couch grass (Agropyron repens)

Botanical family: Poaceae
Parts used: Stems, Rhizomes
Couch grass (Agropyron repens)
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Overview and Health Benefits

Couch grass (Agropyron repens or Elymus repens) has a long-standing reputation in herbal medicine for its diverse therapeutic benefits. Although it is often regarded by gardeners as an annoying weed, couch grass has significant medicinal value. Traditionally utilised for its diuretic, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, modern studies have substantiated its efficacy in managing urinary tract issues including urinary tract infections (Beydokthi et al., 2017), promoting digestive and respiratory health, and supporting detoxification processes (McIntyre, 2019).

Key Benefits:

  • Alleviates symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs) through a demulcent and diuretic effect (Beydokthi et al., 2017; Mills & Bone, 2013)
  • Supports kidney health and aids in the prevention of kidney stones (McIntyre, 2019)
  • Promotes digestive health by soothing mucous membranes and relieves mild digestive complaints (McIntyre, 2019)
  • Acts as a natural detoxifier, easing joint aches and inflammation (McIntyre, 2019)
  • Provides soothing anti-inflammatory effects that can benefit digestive and respiratory health (McIntyre, 2019)

Couch grass is primarily indicated for urinary tract conditions, where it demonstrates considerable efficacy. It is commonly employed to relieve the burning and discomfort associated with cystitis and other UTIs (Beydokthi et al., 2017). The diuretic effect of couch grass helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, thereby reducing infection and inflammation (Mills & Bone, 2013).

For kidney health, couch grass is often used to prevent the formation of kidney stones and support overall renal function. Its diuretic properties facilitate the excretion of excess minerals and toxins, thereby reducing the likelihood of stone formation (McIntyre, 2019; Mills & Bone, 2013).

In the realm of digestive health, couch grass offers mild relief from various digestive disturbances, including indigestion, bloating, and mild gastritis. Its soothing properties help to calm the digestive tract and promote better digestion and nutrient absorption (McIntyre, 2019).

Couch grass also plays a role in detoxification, by promoting the elimination of waste products and toxins through increased urine production, which is helpful to alleviate joint inflammation (McIntyre, 2019).

Additionally, couch grass exhibits soothing, anti-inflammatory effects that can be beneficial for respiratory health. It has been traditionally used to ease conditions such as bronchitis and other inflammatory respiratory issues, providing a gentle yet effective means of relief (McIntyre, 2019).

Safety Profile

While couch grass is generally considered as a safe herb (McIntyre, 2019), with no major reported adverse reactions (Natural Medicines Database, 2024), individuals with known allergies to grasses should avoid using couch grass, as it may trigger allergic reactions (Williamson, Driver, & Baxter, 2009). Due to its diuretic properties, couch grass can increase urine output, which might be problematic for people with severe kidney conditions (McIntyre, 2019). Additionally, those on medication for blood pressure or diuretics should exercise caution, as couch grass can potentially amplify the effects of these drugs, leading to electrolyte imbalances (McIntyre, 2019). As with any herbal remedy, it is prudent to consult with a healthcare professional before using couch grass, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any prescription medications.

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Key Body Systems Couch grass (Agropyron repens) relates to

Couch grass (Agropyron repens)
Urinary system
Couch grass (Agropyron repens)
Digestive System

Energetics

Couch grass (Agropyron repens)
Cooling
Couch grass (Agropyron repens)
Drying

Key actions

  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antirheumatic
  • Demulcent
  • Expectorant
Couch grass (Agropyron repens)

Key uses

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Cystitis, irritable bladder, blood in urine, urethritis, prostatitis
  • Renal stones
  • Irritating coughs

Where to Find Couch grass (Agropyron repens)

Couch grass (Agropyron repens)

Couch grass is a common weed you might recognise from its aggressive growth habit. It is notorious for its spiky, spreading rhizomes that can quickly take over gardens and lawns. This perennial grass typically grows between 40 and 120 cm tall, with smooth, hollow stems and long, slender leaves that have a rough texture and a blue-green colour. The flower heads are spike-like, resembling slender wheat ears, with small greenish spikelets arranged along a central stem.

Couch grass is found in temperate regions around the world, including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, New Zealand, and Australia. It thrives in well-drained soils and can be spotted in meadows, grasslands, along roadsides, and in cultivated fields. This resilient plant does well in various weather conditions and can grow in both sunny and partially shaded areas.

When harvesting couch grass rhizomes for herbal medicine, it's important to be cautious and ensure you have correctly identified the plant. Its rhizomes are best harvested in spring or autumn. Look for areas that are absolutely free from pesticides and pollutants (your organic allotment or garden, for example)—avoid industrial sites or roadsides.

References

Beydokthi, S. S., Sendker, J., Brandt, S., & Hensel, A. (2017). Traditionally used medicinal plants against uncomplicated urinary tract infections: Hexadecyl coumaric acid ester from the rhizomes of Agropyron repens (L.) P. Beauv. with antiadhesive activity against uropathogenic E. coli. Fitoterapia, 116, 53-58. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2016.12.010

Bone, K., & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and practice of phytotherapy (2nd ed.). Elsevier.

Natural Medicines Database. (2024). Couch grass. Retrieved from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/ 

McIntyre, A. (2019). The complete herbal tutor: The definitive guide to the principles and practices of herbal medicine. Aeon.

Williamson, E. M., Driver, S., & Baxter, K. (2009). Stockley’s Herbal Medicines Interactions. Pharmaceutical Press.