Blue Vervain
Blue Vervain
Scientific Name: Verbena officinalis, Labiatae ; Blue Vervain – V. hastata
AKA: Vervain, Wild Hyssop, Simpler’s Joy, American Vervain, False Vervain, Traveler’s Joy, Indian Hyssop, Purvain, Herb of Grace. Herbe Sacrée. Herba Veneris
Parts Used: Leaves, flowering heads
Active Compounds: Iridoids; Verbenin; Verbenalin; Bastatoside, Essential oil, and Mucilage
Blue Vervain is a natural tranquilizer, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant. Blue Vervain (Verbena hastada) is a natural tranquilizer that counteracts periodic disorders of the nervous system. Expectorant action to help with congestion in the throat and chest; aids with fevers and colds. May be effective in eliminating intestinal worms. As a cold infusion, it is a tonic and a vulnerary for sores and wounds. Helpful with female disorders and increases menstrual flow. Also used for epilepsy and for most skin problems.
Background: Vervain and its many varieties have been used historically by ancient Roman priests in sacrifices and as a general alter plant. Druids, magicians and sorcerers utilized it in their rites and incantations. It was worn around the neck as a charm against headaches, to prevent snakebites and for general good luck.
Applications: Nerve tonic, sedative, anti-spasmodic, hepatic
Sedative/Nerve Tonic – Used to strengthen the nervous system while relieving tension and stress. Also used to ease depression and melancholy.
Anti-spasmodic – Used against seizures.
Hepatic – Can remedy inflammation of the gallbladder and prevent jaundice.
Description:
Blue Vervain is native to Europe, China and Japan, Common Vervain is often found growing by roadsides and in pastures. It is a perennial plant bearing many small, pale-lilac flowers. Blue Vervain, a variety of Common Vervain, is indigenous to the United States and North America.
Blue Vervain Dosage:
Infusion – Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 – 3 tsp. of the dried leaves and steep for 10 -15 minutes. Drink this infusion three times per day.
Tincture – Take 2 – 4 ml of tincture three times per day.
Safety: No known safety issues or side effects associated with Blue Vervain. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before using any herb for medicinal purposes.
