Verbena officinalis

Also known as common vervain, simpler’s joy, wild hyssop or holy herb

The story…

Common verbena is native to Europe and grows all around the world, in meadows and on roadsides. It can be confused with other kinds of vervain; it has a very light scent, contrary to (between others) lemon verbena.

Uses

Muscular and nervous tension

Common verbena has a relaxing and antispasmodic effect on nerves and muscles tensions due to stress, in particular in the shoulders and the neck; it eases headaches caused by stress. In case of chronic stress, drink as an infusion during several weeks. It can also be used as a digestive tonic for chronically difficult digestions caused by stress: take diluted tincture before the meal.

Verbena also decreases hot flushes with nervous and muscular tensions – it regulates the sweating and has a cooling effect.

Drink as an infusion or a tincture.

Preparation

Infusion: 3 to 4 g. of fresh leaves per cup, up to 3 times a day. Can be combined for example with lemon balm or German chamomile for stress (to cover the bitter taste), or other bitter plants like motherwort for hot flushes.

Tincture: 30 to 90 drops, up to 4 times a day.

Precautions

Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. In case of persistent symptoms or if you have any doubts, consult a doctor.