A variety of health benefits have been suggested for blue vervain including pain relieve (e.g. analgesic for headaches), anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic (e.g. muscle spasm relief), diuretic (promote urination), anti-parasitic, expectorant (i.e. eliminates mucus), women’s health including PMS and mensopause, improve mood and more.
Latin name
Verbena officinalis
Parts of the plant used
leaves
Phytochemicals present in the plant
Bitters, volatile oils, alkaloids, mucilage, tannins
Other names for this plant include
Vervain, verbena, herb of the cross, pigeon’s grass, wild hyssop, herb of grace, simpler’s
Medicinal uses
Relieve tension – Historically, blue vervain has been used as a way to relieve tension. It is also reported to open up sweat glands. Other uses have included relief from headaches and neck pain
Hot Flashes and PMS – Blue vervain is believed to stabilize progesterone levels which are often associated with PMS (premenstrual syndrome)
Increases milk flow – Stress is a common cause of poor lactation or milk production. Blue vervain is believed to relieve stress helping to improve lactation.
Contraindications – large quantities can cause nausea. However, because of it’s bitterness it is unlikely that someone will consume enough to experience nausea.
Herbal Pharmacy
Infusion – 1 teaspoon per cup, steep for 8 to 10 minutes. Drink 2-3 cups per day to help relieve tension
Tincture – 5 to 30 drops taken 1 to 3 times daily.
Harvesting
Leaves are typically harvested before flowering. The plant should be dried immediately.
His research on plant medicine has led to more than 45 publications and abstracts.This research has been presented at international meetings in the USA, France, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Austria, and Italy.
Categories: Herbal Pharmacy
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