Gundermann or Gundelrebe is often also referred to as ivy Gundermann and is available in stores. The name is due to the similarity of the leaves. There are some similarities between the two plants, but also some differences.
What is the difference between Ivy and Gundermann?
Ivy Gundermann, also called Gundelrebe, is a creeping plant that is externally characterized by leaves similar to ivy. Unlike ivy, ground ivy is edible and can be used as a medicinal plant, while ivy is poisonous.
Similarities and differences to ivy
Gundermann is a small creeping plant that reproduces via runners on the ground. Ivy is a subshrub that spreads through tendrils on the ground, but also climbs walls and trees.
Gundermann can be picked safely. You should be careful with ivy and not let the leaves come into contact with your bare skin. The leaves contain falcarinol, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.
Use as a medicinal plant
Gundel vine and ivy have been used as medicinal plants for centuries. However, since ivy is poisonous, natural oral remedies should only be purchased at the pharmacy and not made yourself.
Gundermann is used in alternative medicine for:
- Abscesses
- Tumors
- Eye problems
- Pneumonia
- Kidney problems
Ivy is considered a remedy for:
- Painkillers
- Inflammation
- Lung diseases
Both Gundermann and ivy have been scientifically studied as remedies. A healing effect has been proven.
Gundermann is edible
The leaves of Gundermann are edible. They even contain a large amount of vitamin C and are therefore often used in spring salads. However, they should only be used sparingly because of their somewhat bitter taste.
Ivy, on the other hand, is poisonous in all parts of the plant. The fruits in particular contain many saponins, which cause severe nausea and other symptoms of poisoning. Although the poison content is not very high, the leaves, flowers and fruits must under no circumstances be consumed.
Ivy and Gundermann are equally indigestible or even poisonous for animals. Both plants should therefore be kept away from meadows and pastures.
Ivy Gundermann not always popular in the garden
Both gundel vine and ivy are very robust plants that cope equally well with sunny and shady locations. Both prefer slightly moist soil and will spread even if the subsoil is heavily compacted.
Both plants are very fast-growing and form long tendrils. They are therefore often planted on walls or in shady garden areas where hardly anything else grows.
However, caution is advised when planting Gundermann in the garden, as the herb spreads very widely. Once established in the garden, it is difficult to control because many new small plants form on the long tendrils. Ivy, on the other hand, is quite easy to grow and keep under control by cutting it back.
Tip
Even if Ivy Gundermann or Gundelrebe is not very popular in the garden, the herb is ecologically valuable. The pretty purple flowers are good bee pasture in spring. They attract bumblebees and bees in droves.