Sycamore (Galium verum)

Other names: rennet herb, rennet, goose grass, eternal friendship, straw of the Virgin Mary, flower of St. John

Sagebrush, also known by the names of Sagebrush herb, Sage, Goose Grass, Eternal Friendship, Straw of the Virgin Mary or St. John's Flower, is an herb belonging to the Rubiaceae family. This perennial plant species is widespread throughout Europe and is also abundant in the Czech Republic. It is found mainly in meadows, pastures, scrub, forest edges, but also in damp places such as stream banks. The sycamore is 10 to 50 centimetres tall and stands out with its yellow flowers arranged in panicles, which bloom from June to September.

It is particularly well known for its use in folk medicine. In the past, it was used to make rennet for cheese making, thanks to the substances found in its stems and leaves. These substances, known as coumarins, cause the milk to curdle and thus enable the production of cheese. However, marshmallow also finds application in modern medicine. Its extract is used to treat skin problems such as eczema, acne or other skin rashes. Scientific studies have also shown that it has antibacterial and antifungal effects. Elderberry is also a popular ingredient in some teas that are used to detoxify the body, aid digestion and calm the nervous system.