Vervain
Verbena officinalis – root
In modern herbal medicine vervain is known as a nervine tonic taken to relieve anxiety, lift depression and for stress related problems such as headaches, migraines and nervous exhaustion. It can reduce the impact of menopausal symptoms due to its nervine properties.
Its bitter principles stimulate the liver enhancing digestion.
Actions
- Sedative
- Mild Antidepressant
- Spasmolytic
Indications
- Relief of nervous tension, anxiety.
- Supports healthy liver function, appetite and digestion.
- Depression.
- Early stages of fever, debility of convalescence.
- Inflammation of gallbladder, jaundice.
Contra-indications and Cautions
No known toxicity.
When iron supplementation is required, or in cases of anaemia, vervain should not be taken simultaneously with meals or iron supplements. If it is, then a vitamin C-rich fruit juice can counteract its inhibiting effects.
Administration and Dosage
The analysis of contents below is a guide only, product specific data including expiry date is with the item in the shop.
Verbena officinalis 1:2. Each 1 ml contains 500mg of dry herb.
Liquid extract in 25% ethanol. Use 20 to 40 ml weekly.
Our clinic uses fluid extracts from Optimal Rx, Herbal Extract Company, Nutrition Care, Mediherb or Sunray Botanicals, in this order.
Notes
Vervain was prescribed so frequently for so many conditions that it became known as simpler’s joy and achieved a reputation as a cure-all used as a panacea for colds, fevers, nervous complaints, skin infections and gout.
