Application
The plant enjoyed great recognition in ancient times as both a medicinal and magical herb. The name comes from the sometimes rusty red color of the stem.
Vervain has been considered a bit of a universal health remedy and has been used for everything from bronchitis, arthritis and migraines to scabies and bad breath, as well as as a diaphoretic and diuretic. It stimulates the metabolism and is believed to strengthen weak nerves. Externally, the juice is used on wounds that will not heal.
There are many superstitions associated with the plant, for example, if the floor is strewn with vervain and thunderclap before the guests arrive, you will have a really good party. It protects against witchcraft and gives endurance on journeys, and if you hold vervain in your hand, all your wishes will come true.
It is the content of glycosides that makes the traditional use of the plant as a menstrual and milk stimulant very sensible.
Ingredients
Essential oil, glycosides, an unidentified alkaloid, bitter substance, tannin and mucilage.
Verbena officinalis L.
Photo of page in Joachim Burser's herbarium.
