Hierochloe odorata
Hierochloë odorata
Hierochloë odorata, commonly known as sweet vernal grass, is a plant traditionally used in scented traditions primarily in Norway. While its specific traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented, studies have identified phytol and coumarin as compounds responsible for mosquito repellent properties, suggesting potential applications similar to those of other plants with similar traits. Scientific evidence indicates that morphological analysis aids in taxonomic differentiation but does not fully separate all subspecies. Hierochloë odorata has been recognized as the most important grass species used for scenting traditions in Norway, alongside Anthoxanthum nipponicum and Milium effusum. In terms of safety, no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no known drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study identified phytol and coumarin as compounds in Hierochloë odorata responsible for mosquito biting deterrence, validating its traditional use.
- Morphological traits in inflorescences showed consistent patterns within each subspecies, aiding taxonomic differentiation but not fully separating all taxa.
- Hierochloë odorata is identified as the most important grass species used in Norway for scented traditions, with Anthoxanthum nipponicum and Milium effusum being less frequently utilized.
- The DSSC using Hierochloë odorata extract showed comparable efficiencies to other natural dyes and had the highest performance among the three grass types tested.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hierochloe odorata?
Hierochloe odorata (Hierochloë odorata) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Hierochloe odorata?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Hierochloe odorata; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study identified phytol and coumarin as compounds in Hierochloë odorata responsible for mosquito biting deterrence, validating its traditional use.
How strong is the evidence for Hierochloe odorata?
The strongest finding for Hierochloe odorata carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Hierochloe odorata safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Hierochloe odorata in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Hierochloe odorata interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Hierochloe odorata in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Hierochloe odorata?
Hierochloe odorata is also known as: Зубровка душистая.
Is Hierochloe odorata a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Green grasses as light harvesters in dye sensitized solar cells. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Scented grasses in Norway--identity and uses. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Isolation and Identification of Mosquito (Aedes aegypti) Biting-Deterrent Compounds from the Native American Ethnobotanical Remedy Plant Hierochloë odorata (Sweetgrass). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluating Inflorescence Morphology in Two Species and Subspecies of the Genus Hierochloë R. Brown. literature abstract metadata