Lycopus from the Greek words lycos for "wolf" and pous for "foot", apparently an imaginative referral to the shape of the leaves; and americanus, "of America".

A perennial mint growing to 3 feet; stem is square; rare on the Palezoic Plateau, but common elsewhere. White blooms from July through September.

The white-colored, screw-shaped root is edible. It can be eaten raw, but is better when boiled in salted water until tender. Also used as a remedy for coughs.

Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked. This contradicts with the report in  that the plant does not form tubers on its rhizomes.

Medicinal Uses: The whole plant is used as an astringent, hypoglycaemic, mild narcotic and mild sedative. It also slows and strengthens heart contractions. The plant has been shown to be of value in the treatment of hyperthyroidism, it is also used in the treatment of coughs, bleeding from the lungs and consumption, excessive menstruation etc. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women or patients with hypothyroidism. The plant is harvested as flowering begins and can be use fresh or dried, in an infusion or as a tincture.

Other Uses: Unknown

Herbal Uses: Unknown