Couch Grass
Elymus repens
T Traditional useIts root (rhizome) is traditionally drunk as a tea to increase urine flow and help flush the urinary tract in minor urinary complaints.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Couch grass is the creeping rhizome of Elymus repens, a common field weed. Similar to the EMA assessment of Graminis rhizoma, it is traditionally used to increase urine flow and flush the urinary tract in minor urinary complaints. There is no reliable evidence that it removes kidney stones.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used to increase urine flow and help flush the urinary tract in minor urinary complaints. [2]
How is it used?
Tea
Infuse or briefly simmer 3–5 g of cut rhizome in 150 ml of boiling water; drink plenty of fluids during the day.
Amount: 3 times daily
Duration limit: 2 weeks
[2]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 12 years
- Do not use for swelling caused by heart or kidney failure.
- See a doctor if fever, painful urination, cramps or blood in the urine occur.
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than 1 week.
- Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been shown; ask a doctor before use.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Diuretic medicines, lithium | May affect fluid and salt balance; ask a doctor before combining. [1] | Moderate |
Side effects
- Rarely allergic reactions
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Couch grass is one of farmers' most stubborn weeds: it regrows from even a tiny piece of rhizome left in the soil. [2]
Frequently asked questions
Does couch grass dissolve kidney stones?
No reliable study shows this. See a doctor if you suspect kidney stones.
How is couch grass tea made?
Infuse 3–5 g of rhizome in 150 ml of boiling water; drink 3 times daily with plenty of water.
Does couch grass treat urinary infections?
No. See a doctor for infection symptoms such as burning or fever.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal ProductsESCOP · 2019
Cite This Page
Couch Grass (Elymus repens). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/couch-grass/
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