Blue vervain can be used to help overcome pain from a variety of sources. The American Journal of Clinical Medicine 1910-11: Vol 17 Iss 11, Medical Digest Inc, 1911, pp1173-1177. In the above-referenced 2016 study, researchers also examined the anticonvulsant activities of vervain in mice. To increase and enrich breastmilk, try blue vervain in our herbal Milky Mama blend that combines it with other beneficial herbs that also stimulate breastmilk production. Flowers are blue to violet or rarely rose pink, about inch across with 5 petals fused at the base forming a short tube. The spikes of purple flowers make great accents and tend to look great with any yellow, pink, or purple flower. Here is the step-by-step method to use lemongrass. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. The bitter compounds in blue vervain have special benefits for your liver and kidneys. Mine is compounded in a pharmacy. North American Ethnobotany Database. Blue vervain spreads through rhizomes, producing new plants. Expectorant: helps bring up mucus and other matter from the lungs. (We may earn a small commission when you purchase through our links, at no cost to you. Here is a simple way to make its tea at home. Vervain is often used as a tea, but it may also be taken as a tincture. The flowers are pretty and can be tossed onto salads to garnish them. One group was tested with blue vervain extracts, while the other was tested with methyl salicylate ointment, which is used for muscle and joint pain and cramps. [2][5]. Although it has been documented that Blue Vervain can induce vomiting and diarrhea in large doses, and can also interfere with other medications. Traditionally Blue Vervain has been used by herbalists to treat a variety of ailments. It may also be helpful in promoting sound sleep. However, the dose proposed in this study is 200mg per kg. Found across North America,blue vervainhas been utilized for its healthful properties for centuries by Native Americans and later by folk herbalists. This is sometimes called a biennial, or at best, a short lived perennial. Dates are sweet fruitsof the date palm tree. The Vervain plant is a herbaceous plant with simple dense leaves. The aerial parts are harvested when flowering and dried, while the root is also used. Verbena hastata is a member of the vervain family with small, blueish-purple flowers that bloom in summer. Panicles of flower spikes containing lavender to purple/violet flowers up to 5 long occur where the stem terminates. 1 Early 20th century Eclectic physicians (doctors who recommended herbal Blue vervain is a perennial plant that is known to be in use for fighting the symptoms of depression. In addition to V. officinalis, less common varietals include blue vervain (Verbena hastata) and white vervain (Verbena urticifolia). Here's the linkto our full disclaimer. Fill a suitable container with moist potting soil, Sprinkle 5-10 Blue Vervain seeds on the soil surface, Press the seeds in with your thumb, but dont cover or bury them, Place the container in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, Seeds should germinate within two weeks, or once Spring arrives if Winter Sowing. Its calming effects will also have a positive effect on your mood during PMS. Blue vervain can be consumed in the form of a warm infusion of leaves, roots, or flowers. Traditionally, blue vervain had many uses among native people. Medical research has detected the presents of adenosine, aucubin, beta-carotene, caffeic-acid, citral, hastatoside, lupeol, ursolic-acid, verbenalin, verbenin, and other . Vervain Herb Tea Recipe. (7). Even if you dont want a wild garden, with deadheading you can reduce the chances of any self-seeding, which effectively turns it into a residential friendly native plant. Each bloom is about 1/4 inch across and noticeably lobed. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Dennis Sifris, MD, is an HIV specialist and Medical Director of LifeSense Disease Management. The opposite leaves are up to 6" long and 1" across. It was also used as an ingredient in pagan love potions. How Do You Use Fresh Blue Vervain? In addition, some analyses have reported that products were contaminated with things including: Discussing vervain with a healthcare provider can ensure you choose a reputable product and take the correct dose. Blue vervain (also known as wild hyssop) is considered a native wildflower in the U.S. The effects are cosmetic and it will not be fatal to the plant. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It has purple flowers and simple leaves with double-serrate margins. When this occurs, you should determine how many plants you want, and then either thin the seedlings or divide and separate the seedlings, potting them up to larger size containers. We hope to provide you with handy how-tos to start or enhance your own home gardens, as well as provide you with plans on how to make some popular home decor projects, both easily & inexpensively. Ginger also helps boost bone health, strengthen the immune system, and increase appetite. Optimization of polysaccharides extracted from Verbena officinalis L and their inhibitory effects on invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells. Respected herbalist Christopher Hedley notes that as a mild relaxant and nerve tonic, blue vervain was traditionally used to induce 'dreamless sleep'. V. officinalis will grow between 12 and 36 inches in height and develop clusters of tiny white or purple flowers. Holistic practitioners and herbalists believe that vervain has healing properties, including: Common uses of blue vervain include as a nervine for us anxious overthinkers and a treatment for depression. Vervain isn't as well-known as other galactagogues like fennel seed, blessed thistle, and fenugreek, but it was once used often for this purpose. But, the cut flowers will likely outlast most other species in the vase. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesnt mean that they are necessarily safe for all people or effective in general. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the highest articles . 2020;11(1):91-98. doi:10.32598/bcn.11.1.3. The growing season is from mid-summer to early fall. Cogent Chem. Some uses include: *NOTE* Blue Vervain has been documented to induce vomiting and diarrhea in larger doses. water 2 dropperfuls organic blue vervain extract 1 dropperful organic ashwagandha extract 1 dropperful organic chamomile extract Directions Combine all ingredients in your favorite mug and drink. The product is still sold today. Blue vervain, a member of the Verbenaceae family, is a slender, but erect, herbaceous perennial plant that can reach a height of up to 5' tall, branching occasionally in the upper half. The herb was traditionally steeped asblue vervaintea but can also be tinctured, made into a syrup, or incorporated into bath and body products like foot soaks and creams. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Blue vervain can also help improve your health in the following ways. If you find blue vervain tea bags, you can use them to make your tea. [5], Research published in the Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences journal indicated that blue vervain has hypnotic effects. All information on this website is for educational purposes only. Plant fact sheet for blue vervain (Verbena hastata). Mugwort thrives with little care . Blooming from early summer to fall, the blossoms open from the bottom upwards for a long-lasting display. Although it fell from favor as herbal medicine evolved beyond herbalisms historical foundations, it still has a place in modern herbal medicine today. They also used it in rituals for promoting love and peace. In fact, if a seedling is just potted up into a large enough container (6 square) or more, it will often bloom inside the pot by late Summer (personal experience). Please consult your health care provider, herbalist,midwife, or naturopathic physician before taking herbs, supplements, etc. Yes, blue vervain is not poisonous and is generally considered a safe food to eat by the FDA. Flavonoids, antioxidants found in vervain, reduce oxidization and gene mutations. Native Americans of the West Coast roasted the seeds and ground them into meal or flour. Therefore, it is possible that toxicity could occur at higher doses or with long-term use. Vervain can indeed be grown in home gardens, but be sure to buy V. officinalis seeds rather than ornamental varietals, like V. bonariensis. The stalk of Blue Vervain is green to reddish green in color and has a four-angled shape. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. On our website, you will find information about different herbs, smokable herbs, plant spiritual effects and benefits, smoke wands, ritual teas and more. It can grow in well-draining soil with medium moisture as well. As with many homeopathic remedies, some health claims are better supported by research than others. Several of the names for vervain (Herb of the Cross, Herb of Grace, Holy wort) refer to the legend that the wounds of Jesus were dressed with vervain when he was taken down from the cross. Even with all the legends surrounding it, vervain still has a long history of documented, practical use by herbalists. 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. 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. Ingredients 4 oz. I am not a medical professional. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your kidneys, intestines, and skin provide pathways for these toxins to exit your body. An herb that delivers a diverse number of health benefits, skullcap is best known for reducing anxiety and insomnia. Smoking Qualities: This herb is a light smoke with a pleasant, slightly sweet flavor. Create an account with us and you'll be able to: Fill in your email below to request a new password. New or young growth may be browsed upon. Blue vervain may interact with blood pressure medication and hormone therapy. Furthermore, it supports a large array of pollinators, which directly impacts your local ecosystem in a very positive way. You can use Blue Vervain for a full spectrum approach to alleviating tension, whether that be psychological or a stiff neck. USDA NRCS. In the 2016 study referenced above, researchers looked at the sedative properties of vervain. I hope to share some of my knowledge with you! Verbena is a plant. Scientists evaluated different parts of vervain against 24 strains of disease-causing bacteria. Blue Vervain should not require supplemental fertilizer. Blue Vervain is a perennial wildflower native to North America. Betony (page 250) works similarly. Next, walk over the area to ensure good contact with the soil. Accessed 10JAN2023. Lets take a closer look at the numerous health benefits of this plant. Flowers tubular, 5-lobed, opening from the base of spike upward. It's typically used as a tea for stress relief, anxiety, mood swings, and sometimes symptoms of depression. It's typically used as a tea for stress relief, anxiety, mood swings, and sometimes symptoms of depression. Growing in similar conditions as the invasive Purple Loosestrife, Blue Vervain can make for an excellent replacement once the aforementioned invader has been eradicated. I've been growing plants from seed and designing native plant gardens for over six years. [2], Blue Vervain can attract a huge variety of pollinators, as Charles Robertson in his 1929 survey recorded nearly 70 unique species. Nighty night! To 1 tbsp. [8] In fact Blue Vervain supplements can be purchased today. Cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of the leaf methanolic extract of Verbena hastate. One of the most traditional benefits of blue vervain is aiding nursing mothers by stimulating breastmilk production. Cardinals, sparrows, other birds will eat the seeds. We show you how to make it look like a million bucks for the price of a few bucks! If transplanted to its final location early enough, it will bloom the first year. 2. Blue vervain (Verbena hastata), also called simplers joy and enchanters plant, is an herb native to North America and is closely related to vervain (V. officinalis). This means that liver and kidney health are essential to prevent the harmful accumulation of toxic compounds. When the researchers gave mice a 50300 mg/kg dose of an extract of vervain, they noticed an increase in sedative effects with increasing dosage. It was, and still is, much esteemed in European herbalism. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US), Khan AW, Khan AU, Ahmed T. Anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and sedative activities ofverbena officinalis. It helps in reducing sleep latency, which means that it can minimize the time a person takes to fall asleep and improve the duration of sleep. One of its nicknames is "Herb of the Cross" because certain sources state that it was used to stop Jesus' wounds from bleeding after he was taken off the cross. I'm looking for good stuff for The plant grows up to 2 to 6 feet and produces small bluish purple flowers on long spikes from midsummer to the early days of autumn. Since researchers conducted these studies on rodents, it is uncertain whether the results would translate similarly to humans. Similar in appearance to its European cousin lemon verbena ( Verbena officinalis), the two share many intended uses . If you have allergies, read labels carefully to ensure the product does not contain any known allergens, such as wheat, egg, or milk. We are a husband and wife duo. Blue vervain is a traditional medicinal herb, with the roots, leaves or flowers used to treat conditions ranging from stomach aches, colds and fever to headaches, bruises and arthritis. [1][2][3], The flowers primarily produce nectar which attracts dozens of species of bees, butterflies, and moths. Therefore, more research is needed. Leaves of Blue Vervain are opposite (paired) along the stem and 1 wide (2.5 cm) up to 6 long (15cm). Blue vervain is native to North America and was used by the Aztecs and Native Americans for its many health benefits. [6] Moerman, Daniel E. Native American medicinal plants : an ethnobotanical dictionary, Portland, Or. They are lanceolate in shape and coarsely serrated, and will have prominent veins. Skullcap potentially boosts the central nervous system, reduces nervous anxiety, and helps with nervous headaches. Blue Vervain is a lovely upright perennial with stunning purplish to lavender-blue flowers held in showy branched inflorescences that resemble spire-like candelabras. SAVE 15% ON YOUR ENTIRE ORDER* WITH PURCHASE OF $100 OR MORE | Use Code. This incredible herb and our nervous system are a match made in heaven. This is normal and part of the natural ecosystem, and the plant will not be harmed. Anaphylaxis. An animal study demonstrated that hastatoside and vervenalin, two chemical components found in vervain, may aid in promoting sleep. Overview. PrecautionsNot for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Blue Vervain will grow best in full sun, which is at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In animal research, the following dosages were used: The quality of traditional Chinese herbs and other folk remedies varies. Mass plantings will create a more dramatic effect, allowing it to stand out more. Our articles are evidence-based and contain scientific references, fact-checked by experts. Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata) will self-seed prolifically during the fall and Winter months, leading to dozens of new seedlings in the Spring. dry herb add 1 pint boiling water, steep 10 min. Vervain is quite safe to use, but it should not be taken in large doses. Since researchers conducted this study on mice, it's unclear whether these benefits would transfer to humans. Therefore, some researchers have looked at the herb's anticancer potential, specifically in colorectal cancer. They do this by sending a signal to increase saliva, bile, and enzyme production. The herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as something that could quiet the mind, reduce stress, and boost mood when smoked. Blue Vervain has become one of my staple relaxant remedies over the years and is the perfect remedy for some common patterns in our overworked and burned-out culture. [2]. Not a comment but more of an inquiry. Mullein is mildly relaxing, helps to promote calm feelings, and fights against anxiety. We are your one-stop shop for all things related to herbalism and plant spirituality. Lemon verbena is used for . It has also been studied for its antitumor and brain-boosting effects. Blue vervain tincture: You can use just a few drops of this nice simple tincture for muscle spasms, neck tension, and stress tension headaches. The plant is recognized by its jagged, tooth-shaped leaves and clusters of delicate, mauve or pale-purple blossoms. While all parts of blue vervain are used in medicine, the roots have more active properties than the leaves. Native to the Northern United States and Canada, Blue Vervain has a rich history of use around the world. Blue vervain is a member of the verbena family with a history of use that dates to ancient Egypt. 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Sifris, MD, is an HIV specialist and Medical Director of disease. Use, but it should not be taken as a tincture and vervain. And dried, while the root is also used six hours of direct sunlight per day salads to garnish.... Violet or rarely rose pink, about inch across with 5 petals fused at the sedative properties vervain! Allow your young plants to grow to a larger size before transplanting out to their final location skin provide for! States and Canada, blue vervain ( also known as wild hyssop is! Herb that delivers a diverse number of health benefits of tiny white or purple flowers great... Best known for reducing anxiety and insomnia feelings, and will have veins... Had many uses among native people been studied for its many health benefits of this plant Vol 17 11! Is possible that toxicity could occur smoking blue vervain higher doses or with long-term.... Even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesnt mean that they are lanceolate in shape and serrated... 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Hiv specialist and Medical Director of LifeSense disease Management from early summer to fall, the proposed... Your health in the U.S dried, while the root is also used as an ingredient in pagan potions... Uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our are... Is uncertain whether the results would translate similarly to humans mass plantings will a... Are dedicated to providing our customers with the soil doses, and sometimes symptoms depression. Researchers conducted these studies on rodents, it still has a long of... Whether the results would translate similarly to humans use by herbalists roasted the seeds is at least six of. The supervision of a warm infusion of leaves, roots, or treatment for all people effective. Sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles evidence-based. At best, a short tube States and Canada, blue vervain green.