Elytrigia repens (Elytrigia repens)

Other names: Agropyrum repens, Agrapymum repens, Agropyron repens, Elymus repens, Triticum repens

Creeping pyre (Elytrigia repens), other name variants are Agropyrum repens, Agrapymum Repens, Agropyron repens, Elymus repens, Triticum repens, represents one of the most persistent and widespread weedy plants in Europe. This perennial weed, originally from the lichen family, is known for its white, thin and long rhizomes, which can spread with great speed and thus cover large areas. It is found in fields, meadows, vineyards, roadsides, etc. It often becomes a problem especially where the soil is deeply cultivated.

Although the creeping spurge is considered by many to be a common weed, it also offers a variety of uses. For example, its rhizomes can be dried and processed into a powder that is used as an alternative to coffee or tea. The plant is also used in homeopathy to treat kidney and bladder diseases. It also has beneficial effects for the digestive system. Evidence of the medicinal effects of this weed dates back to antiquity, where it was widely used as a remedy for diarrhoea, vomiting or gall bladder and kidney stones. It is also a popular feed for horses. For example, parts of the plant are gaining great popularity in the food and beverage industry. From the juice of the rhizomes to wholemeal bread made from pearl millet flour, pearl millet offers great opportunities for the development of new products with positive effects on human health.