Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus) is a perennial wetland herb in the Lamiaceae family native to North America. It is a mint-family herb with opposite leaves, small pale flowers, and a preference for damp ground. The aerial parts are the parts most often used in traditional preparations.
Bugleweed has a place in traditional North American herbal practice, especially in formulas associated with the throat, nerves, and older endocrine-focused herb use. The aerial parts were prepared in teas and tinctures, but modern use usually involves more professional caution than everyday kitchen herbs.
Because more than one Lycopus species may be called bugleweed, careful botanical identification is helpful.
