Vervain
Verbena officinalis · Verbenaceae
A crossing plant — kept in both Haitian & Caribbean and Adriatic & Balkan traditions. Two shores, one root.
Vervain
Verveine officinale
Verbena officinalis
Verbenaceae
Traditionally used
Vervain is a mild antispasmodic tisane long turned to for migraines, chronic bronchitis, and stubborn eczema, and to coax scant menstruation. The flowering plant is infused, two or three cups a day. It is not the fragrant lemon verbena, with which it is often confused. ⚠ A mild emmenagogue — avoid in pregnancy or when trying to conceive.
In three languages
Français — La verveine officinale est une tisane légèrement antispasmodique employée de longue date contre les migraines, la bronchite chronique et l'eczéma tenace, et pour favoriser des règles insuffisantes. On infuse la plante fleurie, deux à trois tasses par jour. Elle ne se confond pas avec la verveine odorante (verveine citronnée). ⚠ Emménagogue léger — à éviter pendant la grossesse ou en cas de désir de conception.
Safety
Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.
Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.
Sources & lineage
European folk tradition; verbenalin glucoside and tannins
Kept alongside