Uses of Germander

06/18/2008
Germander (Teucrium chamaedrys) is a short, rounded dark green perennial bush with pink flowers in the summertime. This herb does well in a sunny, dry location and thrives in Zones 5-9. Legend has it that a Holy Roman Emperor was cured of gout by taking extracts of germander for 60 days. It has been used medicinally since the time of the Greeks, when it was often prescribed for coughs and asthma. Today we know that germander is a bitter herb which reduces inflammation and lowers fever. It also has anitseptic, diuretic and decongestant qualities.

Other uses of germander include walkway edging and as a flavor for liqueurs, wines and vermouth.