VERVAIN TINCTURE
Family: Verbenaceae
Genus: Verbena
Species: officinalis
Synonyms: Common verbena, common vervain, herb of the cross
Common Names: Vervain
Parts Used: Leaves, flowers
Main Actions: Nervine, bitter tonic, diaphoretic
Other Actions: Antispasmodic, hepatic stimulant
Description: Vervain is a perennial herb with serrated leaves and small, five-petaled purple flowers arranged in spikes.
Tribal and Herbal Medicine Uses: Used in traditional medicine for nervous system disorders, digestion, and liver support. It can be taken orally or applied topically to treat a variety of ailments, such as headaches, insomnia, skin conditions, digestive problems, general fatigue, sore throats, respiratory tract diseases, heart conditions, menopause symptoms, depression, hysteria, seizure, gallbladder pain, gout, anemia, fever, pain, exhaustion, nervous conditions, liver and gallbladder diseases, jaundice, kidney and lower urinary tract disorders, poorly healing wounds, abscesses, burns, arthritis, joint pain, dislocations, contusions, and itching.
Plant Chemicals: alkaloids, glycosides, Iridoids (verbenalin, hastatoside), flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, volatile oils
Biological Activities and Clinical Research: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant properties demonstrated in various studies.
Current Practical Uses: Herbal teas, tinctures, and extracts for nervous tension, digestive complaints, and general health support.
Main Preparation Method: Herbal tea infusion
Main Actions: Nervine, bitter tonic, diaphoretic
Main Uses: Relaxation, digestion aid, fever reduction
Properties/Actions Documented by Research: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant
Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use: Digestive support, liver tonic
Cautions: Prolonged use may cause gastrointestinal irritation in sensitive individuals.
Traditional Preparation: Herbal tea, tincture, poultice
Contraindications: Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions: None reported
Recommended dosage: 5ml - 10ml taken in a small glass of water or juice 2 x daily on an empty stomach for better absorption.