Gundermann is also called earth ivy or creeping ivy because it looks very similar to the climbing plant. Unlike ivy, Gundermann is edible. The leaves can be eaten raw and can also be used as a herb in the kitchen. What food does Gundermann go with?
Is Gundermann edible and how can you use it?
Gundermann, also called earth ivy or creeping ivy, is edible and rich in vitamin C. The leaves can be used raw in salads, used as a seasoning for eggs, herb butter and quark dishes or infused as tea.
Use Gundermann as a herb in the kitchen
The leaves of the Gundermann have a slightly spicy taste that is reminiscent of mint and licorice. The aroma is quite strong, so the herb should only be used sparingly when seasoning.
Gundermann goes well as a spice with all dishes that you can also season with thyme or mint. Gundel vine is popular as a seasoning for eggs, herb butter and quark dishes.
Cut the herb into small pieces shortly before eating and add it fresh to the food. You should only cook dried leaves.
Gundel vine leaves in salad
The leaves of the gundel vine contain a lot of vitamin C and can be eaten raw as a salad. They go particularly well with salads made from wild herbs. You can combine different herbs as you wish.
Enjoy Gundermann as tea
Gundermann leaves can be brewed as a tea like any other herb. To do this, pour boiling water over a tablespoon of chopped or dried leaves. Let the tea steep for five to ten minutes and then strain the leaves.
Gundermann tea tastes aromatic and promotes metabolism.
When is Gundermann harvested?
Gundermann is harvested fresh from April to July or even longer. The plant with its pretty purple flowers can be found in meadows, along forest edges and in some gardens. Unfortunately there is a risk of confusion with
- Red deadnettle
- Little Braunelle
- Günsel.
If you are not sure which plant you have in front of you, rub the leaves between your fingers. Gundermann exudes a slightly pungent smell that is reminiscent of mint.
The entire herb is cut, including the flowers. If the leaves remain on the stem, Gundermann can be dried very well so that it can later be used as a tea or spice.
Tip
Gundermann contains essential oils, tannins and bitter substances. The plant is used in natural medicine as a medicinal herb for purulent inflammations and internally for respiratory diseases and metabolic problems. The effectiveness of the gundel vine has been scientifically proven.
