Verbena ( / vərˈbiːnə / ), [3] also known as vervain or verveine, is a genus in the family Verbenaceae. It contains about 150 species of annual and perennial herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants.
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What does vervain mean?
Vervain’s botanical name is Verbena officinalis, which is often what it’s called in scientific research. Vervain belongs to the plant family Verbenacea, not to be confused with lemon verbena. Lemon verbena is a completely different plant, but lemon verbena and vervain are in the same plant family.
What is the difference between vervain and Verbena?
Vervain ( Verbena officinalis ) is a flowering plant in the verbena herb family. While there are well over 250 species of verbena, vervain refers to the types used for medicinal purposes. In addition to V. officinalis, less common varietals include blue vervain ( V. hastata ) and white vervain ( V. urticifolia ).
What are the health benefits of vervain?
Vervain is an herb that is sometimes used medicinally to treat headaches, insomnia, digestive and respiratory issues, UTIs, and depression. Even so, evidence to support the health benefits of vervain is limited and more research is needed to conclude whether it is safe and effective as complementary medicine.
How many types of vervain are there?
While there are well over 250 species of verbena, vervain refers to the types used for medicinal purposes. In addition to V. officinalis, less common varietals include blue vervain ( V. hastata ) and white vervain ( V. urticifolia ).
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What is verveine used for?
Vervain is used in traditional medicine to treat infections and abdominal pain and to promote milk production in breastfeeding women.
What vervain means?
Verbena flowers are also symbolically used to represent healing, creativity, and happiness. They are even used for protection against harm and evil.
What is verveine tea in English?
Verveine (also known as Lemon Verbena) is a delicious herbal tea with a host of health benefits. It is very popular in France where it is drunk in the evenings as a delicious calming tisane.
Is Lavender a vervain?
Vervain Family. Flowers of the Vervain family have a long corolla tube that extends out into 4 or 5 lobes, in our area generally 5 lobes. The flowers are small (!/6 to 1/3 inches or 1 cm wide), generally lavender, and come in spikes or small clusters. They grow on a stem that is about 2 feet or 65 cm tall.
Is vervain poisonous to humans?
Is vervain poisonous? The vervain plant is not poisonous and is generally recognized as safe as a food by the FDA.
What is verveine tea good for?
Vervain leaves or roots are often brewed into tea or used as a poultice to treat a number of maladies, including the following: Gum problems. Menstrual cramps and other “female” problems. Depression, anxiety and mood swings.
What does vervain look like?
What does the vervain plant look like? Verbena Officinalis is a perennial plant with delicate jagged leaves and small, pale lilac five-petaled flowers on shoots. The vervain flower can bloom light blue to purple flowers, but some vervain will bloom with pink or white flowers.
What is vervain for vampires?
Vervain is a potent herb and a vampire's most well-known weakness. If a vampire makes physical contact with vervain in any form, it will burn them. If a vampire ingests vervain, the vampire's throat and digestive tract will be burned and they will become feverish and extremely weak.
Where do you find vervain?
In the wild, it prefers chalky soils and can be seen on rough grassland, roadside verges, scrubby areas, coastal cliffs and waste ground.
How do you make vervain?
To make vervain tea, bring a saucepan of water to boil. Add 4 teabags to the teapot or tea infuser. Pour over the boiling water and allow the tea to steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and add honey, lemon or stevia to enhance the flavor.
How often should you drink vervain?
Vervain tea can also be made from the flower and leaves by adding 1 to 2 teaspoons (2 to 4 grams) to a pint of boiled water. To get the most from this herbal tea, you should allow it to steep covered for 10 to 15 minutes. When using it for medicinal purposes, the common recommendation is 1 to 3 cups of tea per day.
Which vervain is medicinal?
Blue vervain seems to be the most common Verbena species currently used medicinally, though many other species are used by Indigenous Nations and with other folks where Blue vervain does not grow.
What does vervain smell like?
The oil produced by the verbena plant is typically yellow or green, and offers a fruity, citrus scent, hence its common epithet, lemon verbena.
How do you make vervain tea from fresh leaves?
How To Take VervainAdd water to a saucepan and bring it to a boil.Add the vervain teabag to a teapot.Pour the hot water into the teapot and allow to steep for about 5 minutes.Remove the teabag. You can add honey or lemon to improve the flavor.
Does Verbena make you sleepy?
Lemon verbena contains chemicals that might kill mites and bacteria, as well as chemicals that may reduce swelling (inflammation) and cause sleepiness.
What plant is used as vervain in Vampire Diaries?
Compared with its flashy garden verbena cousins, common vervain (Verbena Officinalis) is an unprepossessing plain Jane. You may know it for keeping Vampires free to walk in the sunlight if you are a fan of the CW'S Vampire Diaries. It has also been an herb that was used for magic and religion.
Does verveine have caffeine?
Details: Verveine has been appreciated for more than a thousand years. People enjoy its clear lemon flavors and lack of caffeine.
What is Vervain used for?
Vervain has been used for many conditions, including stimulation of lactation and treatment of dysmenorrhea, jaundice, gout, kidney stones, and headache; however, there are few clinical trials of vervain or its components.
Where is Vervain native to?
Vervain is a slender perennial plant with small, pale lilac flowers borne on leafless spikes. It is indigenous to the Mediterranean but has been cultivated widely throughout eastern Europe, North Africa, China, and Japan. The name "verbenae" originally was used in Roman times to describe all plants used on altars for their aromatic qualities.
What is Vervain used for?
Summary. Vervain is used in traditional medicine to treat infections and abdominal pain and to promote milk production in breastfeeding women.
Where does Vervain come from?
Vervain, also known as verbena, Verbena officinalis, and herb of the cross, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia ( 1 ). The plant belongs to the Verbenaceae family and has lobed, toothed leaves, and silky, pale-purple flowers. It’s used throughout the world as an herbal remedy because of the multiple beneficial compounds it contains.
What is Vervain essential oil?
Vervain’s extract and essential oils may provide other potential health benefits, such as: 1 Anti-inflammatory activity. The topical use of vervain extract seems to have an anti-inflammatory effect on swelling caused by fluid retention ( 17 ). 2 Supports gum health. One study in 260 people suggests that a vervain decoction (herbal infusion) may benefit the management of chronic gingivitis or gum inflammation ( 18 ). 3 Supports heart health. A study in rats determined that treatment with verbenalin, or cornin, reduced heart tissue death and damage from inadequate blood supply ( 19 ). 4 Antidiarrheal activity. One animal study concluded that vervain root extract significantly delayed the volume and frequency of diarrhea, compared with a control ( 20 ).
How many compounds are in Vervain?
Vervain contains over 20 beneficial plant compounds, including iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which may be responsible for its purported benefits ( 2. Trusted Source.
What is the compound that is used in vervain?
This was attributed to verbenin, an essential component in vervain. Verbenin was even favored over bromide , a compound usually used in epilepsy treatment ( 11 ).
Does Vervain oil inhibit bacteria?
In one test-tube study, vervain essential oil was tested against two fungi and seven bacteria. It inhibited the growth of all microorganisms in a dose-dependent manner — meaning that the higher the dose, the higher the antimicrobial effect ( 13. Trusted Source. ).
Does Vervain oil kill rogue cells?
One test-tube study found that a concentration of 0.01% vervain essential oil increased the death of rogue immune cells obtained from those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia from 15–52%, suggesting that it may be useful for the development of new therapeutic agents ( 4 ).
What is the meaning of the word "vervain"?
Verbena has long been associated with divine and other supernatural forces. It was called "tears of Isis " in ancient Egypt, and later called "Hera's tears".
What is Vervain charm?
Vervain flowers are engraved on cimaruta, Italian anti- stregheria charms. In the 1870 The History and Practice of Magic by "Paul Christian" (Jean-Baptiste Pitois) it is employed in the preparation of a mandragora charm. The book also describes its antiseptic capabilities (p. 336), and use as a protection against spells (pp. 339, 414).
What does verbena mean in Victorian?
In the Victorian language of flowers, verbena held the dual meaning of enchantment and sensibility.
What is Spanish verbena oil?
The essential oil of various species, mainly common vervain, is traded as "Spanish verbena oil". Considered inferior to oil of lemon verbena ( Aloysia citrodora) in perfumery, it is of some commercial importance for herbalism.
What is the effect of verbena on health?
Verbena has been listed as one of the 38 plants used to prepare Bach flower remedies, a kind of alternative medicine promoted for its effect on health. According to Cancer Research UK, "essence therapists believe that using essences can help to increase your mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Where is the Verbena plant native to?
It contains about 150 species of annual and perennial herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants. The majority of the species are native to the Americas and Asia. Verbena officinalis, the common vervain or common verbena, is the type species and native to Europe.
What is the plant that is carried to the enemy by envoys?
Some call it aristereon, and Latin writers verbenaca. This is the plant which I mentioned as carried to the enemy by envoys. With this the table of Jupiter is swept, and homes are cleansed and purified. There are two kinds of it; one has many leaves and is thought to be female, the other, the male, has fewer leaves.
What is the origin of Vervain?
Vervain Plant Origin. Vervain is an herb that goes by quite a few other common names including Simpler’s Joy, Enchanter’s Plant, Herb of the Cross, Juno’s Tears, Pigeon’s Grass, Pigeonweed, Herb of Grace, Wild Hyssop, Iron-weed, Wild Verbena, and Indian Hyssop. Vervain’s botanical name is Verbena officinalis, which is often what it’s called in ...
What is Vervain plant used for?
In traditional herbal medicine, it has been used to treat headaches, insomnia, depression, anxiety, kidney stones, gout, jaundice and more . It also has been used to improve lactation for nursing mothers and as a natural treatment for painful menstruation. ( 1)
Where is Vervain native to?
Vervain is likely native to Europe, specifically the Mediterranean region, but it has been naturalized to other parts of the world, including North America. ( 3) The aerial portions (above-ground plant parts) of Verbena officinalis are used for medicinal purposes.
Which Greek physician recommended Verbena officinalis for fever and plague?
The Greek physician, Hippocrates, is also said to have recommended Verbena officinalis for fever and plague. ( 14)
Can verbena officinalis be grown in full sun?
Verbena officinalis is a medicinal herb that you may want to consider adding to your current herb garden. If you’re interested in possibly including it in your garden lineup, it’s helpful to know that this herb grows best in full sun with well-dr ained soil . It can survive in partial shade as well, but it definitely still needs to be well-drained. Verbena officinalis plants and seeds can be found at some garden stores or online.
Does Vervain contain cornin?
Vervain has been shown to contain a naturally occurring plant glycoside called verbenalin or cornin. A 2016 study isolated this cornin from the fruit of the plant to look at its possible protective effects against myocardial ischemia, which is when blood flow is reduced to the heart due to a partial or complete blockage of the heart’s arteries. The researchers found that the animal subjects treated with cornin (30 milligrams per kilogram via an IV) exhibited that their hearts were protected from injury due to myocardial ischemia. Based on the data, the researchers believe that the cornin found in Verbena officinalis has cardioprotective effects due to the fact that it increases the expression of compounds in the body that play a key role in cellular survival pathways. ( 12)
Is vervain good for MRSA?
More studies are needed, but the researchers found that Verbena officinalis is an anti microbial and antibacteria l herb containing bioactive ingredients that may have potential in helping to fight against drug-resistant infections like MRSA. ( 11)
What is Vervain tea used for?
Vervain teas were consumed as tonics that were designed to promote relaxation while invigorating the spirit. The herb also supposedly promoted digestion, and was used to treat colic, nausea, diarrhea, and other intestinal complaints. Solutions and teas were also used as mouthwashes to freshen the breath and cut down on oral bacteria. Minor skin conditions such as itches and irritation have also historically been treated with this herb, often in the form of a bath additive.
What color are Vervain flowers?
Vervain flowers can vary in color from white to purple, while their leaves are saw-toothed.
What is the best soil for Vervain?
Gardeners can grow this plant in zones three through eight. Vervain likes full sun and well drained, limey soil, and it can also be grown in containers. It can tend to look a little bit weedy and unkempt, which is something that gardeners should consider when they decide where they want to plant this herb.
Is Vervain safe for pregnant women?
Few studies have been conducted to determine how effective this herb is. This is often the case with herbal medicines, as drug companies are not usually interested in investing time and energy in drugs that cannot be patented. As a result, little evidence exists to indicate how effective vervain really is. Pregnant women should be aware that this herb is not safe for them, especially in the first trimester, as it has been linked with miscarriages.
Can Vervain be grown in pots?
Also known as verbana, vervain can be grown in pots.
Is Vervain a perennial?
Vervain is a perennial herb native to the Old World. Most people are thinking of either Verbena officinalis or Verbena hastata when they think of this herb, and the plant is also sometimes referred to as “ verbena .” Several societies have historically used it for healing, and it was once a very common feature in herb gardens. Today, people grow it for both medicinal and ornamental use, and many health food stores stock dried forms for people who do not wish to grow their own.
Why is vervain used?
Vervain has been used for several centuries to boost gum health. Reports show that even the Celtic people had used vervain as a mouthwash to treat their oral problems. Chewing the plant’s roots was believed to strengthen one’s gums and teeth.
Where does vervain come from?
Vervain is of two types – blue vervain and white vervain. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and also grows in parts of North America. The major constituents of vervain responsible for the benefits include glycosides, tannins, alkaloids, bitter principles, and volatile oil.
How Can Vervain Benefit You?
Anxiety and sleep issues can turn your life upside down. But you don’t have to rely solely on medications and experience side effects. Studies show us the anxiolytic and sedative effects of vervain ( 1 ). This is especially true with blue vervain as it can calm the nervous system.
Why is Vervain used on Jesus' wounds?
Mythical and mysterious, isn’t it? By far, the most important use of vervain has been to soothe one’s mood and treat anxiety. Think of the peace you would feel after a long day at work.
How to take Vervain?
The best (and the simplest) way to take vervain is in the form of a tea. Preparing the tea is dead simple. All you need is a vervain teabag.
What is the plant family of Vervain?
Vervain belongs to the Verbenaceae plant family and is also called herb of the cross, herb of grace, Juno’s tears, and enchanter’s plant. It is a slender plant that has toothed leaves. It has pale flowers and leafless spikes and tastes bitter. Vervain is of two types – blue vervain and white vervain. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region ...
What is the glycoside in Vervain?
A naturally occurring glycoside in vervain, called cornin, was found to have cardioprotective effects . In one study, animal subjects treated with cornin showed recovery from myocardial ischemia (partial or complete blockage of the arteries).
Is verbena safe to use in medicine?
There isn't enough reliable information to know if verbena is safe when used in medicinal amounts. Although verbena seems to be safe when used in small amounts as part of a specific combination product (SinuComp, Sinupret), there's not enough reliable information to know if verbena is safe to use as a single ingredient or in other combinations. ...
Is verbena safe for breast feeding?
Pregnancy and breast -feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if verbena is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Is verbena safe for mouth?
More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of verbena for these uses. Side Effects. When taken by mouth: Verbena is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth in food amounts. There isn't enough reliable information to know if verbena is safe when used in medicinal amounts.
Does verbena help with gum disease?
A mild form of gum disease (gingivitis). Rinsing the mouth with verbena after brushing and flossing might prevent plaque and redness by a small amount compared with brushing and flossing alone. Swelling ( inflammation) of the nasal cavity and sinuses (rhinosinusitis). Early research shows that taking a specific product containing verbena ...
What Is Vervain?
- Vervain is a slender perennial plant with small, pale lilac flowers borne on leafless spikes. It is indigenous to the Mediterranean but has been cultivated widely throughout eastern Europe, North Africa, China, and Japan. The name "verbenae" originally was used in Roman times to describe all plants used on altars for their aromatic qualities.
What Is It Used for?
- Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses
The aerial parts have been used traditionally for many conditions, including stimulation of lactation and treatment of dysmenorrhea, jaundice, gout, kidney stones, headache, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Vervain is also considered an astringent, a bitter digestive tonic, and a diu… - General uses
Vervain has been used for many conditions, including stimulation of lactation and treatment of dysmenorrhea, jaundice, gout, kidney stones, and headache; however, there are few clinical trials of vervain or its components.
What Is The Recommended Dosage?
- There is no clinical evidence to support specific dose recommendations for vervain. Traditional use for its astringent properties required 2 to 4 g daily in an infusion.
Further Information
- Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Medical Disclaimer
Overview
Verbena , also known as vervain or verveine, is a genus in the family Verbenaceae. It contains about 150 species of annual and perennial herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants. The majority of the species are native to the Americas and Asia; however, Verbena officinalis, the common vervain or common verbena, is the type species, and native to Europe.
Naming
In the United States, the name verbena is usually used, whereas Europeans use the terms verveine or vervain. When used alone, the term usually refer to common verbena.
Description
Verbena is an herbaceous flowering plant, belonging to the Verbenaceae family, and may be annual or perennial depending on the species. The leaves are usually opposite, simple, and in many species hairy, often densely so. The flowers are small, with five petals, and borne in dense spikes. Typically some shade of blue, they may also be white, pink, or purple, especially in cultivars.
The genus can be divided into a diploid North American and a polyploid South American lineage, b…
Cultivation
Some species, hybrids and cultivars of verbena are used as ornamental plants. They are drought-resistant, tolerating full to partial sun, and enjoy well-drained, average soils. Plants are usually grown from seed. Some species and hybrids are not hardy and are treated as half-hardy annuals in bedding schemes.
They are valued in butterfly gardening in suitable climates, attracting Lepidopte…
Pests and diseases
For some verbena pathogens, see List of verbena diseases. Cultivated verbenas are sometimes parasitized by sweet potato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) and spread this pest to other crops.
Uses
Although verbena ("vervain") has been used in herbalism and traditional medicine, usually as an herbal tonic, there is no high-quality evidence for its effectiveness. Verbena has been listed as one of the 38 plants used to prepare Bach flower remedies, a kind of alternative medicine promoted for its effect on health. According to Cancer Research UK, "essence therapists believe that using essences can help to increase your mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. However, essence…
In culture
Verbena has long been associated with divine and other supernatural forces. It was called "tears of Isis" in ancient Egypt, and later called "Hera's tears". In ancient Greece it was dedicated to Eos Erigineia. The generic name is the Latin term for a plant sacred to the ancient Romans. Pliny the Elder describes verbena presented on Jupiter altars; it is not entirely clear if this referred to a verbena ra…
Species
The following species are accepted: (See also Aloysia, Glandularia and Junellia for species formerly placed here.)
• Verbena alata Otto ex Sweet
• Verbena alejandrana (B.L.Turner) Christenh. & Byng
• Verbena × allenii Moldenke