Glecoma

/ɡlɪˈkoʊmə/ noun

Definition

A genus of creeping plant in the mint family, commonly known as ground ivy or alehoof.

Etymology

From Greek 'glekoma' (ground ivy), possibly from 'glyks' (sweet) or related to 'glyka' (sweetness), referring to the plant's use as a sweetening or flavoring agent in beverages.

Kelly Says

Glecoma hederacea (ground ivy) was used for centuries to flavor and clarify beer before hops became standard—the word literally means 'gleca's plant,' honoring an ancient figure in plant lore.

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