Vervain, Herb of the cross, Prostrate verbena

Verbena officinalis

Physical Characteristics

Verbena officinalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from April to October, in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Denmark south and east to N. Africa, W. Asia to the Himalayas.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Leaves - parboiled, seasoned and then eaten[183]. The leaves are used as a tea substitute[7, 183]. The flowers are used as a garnish[183].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antibacterial Anticoagulant Antipruritic Antirheumatic Antispasmodic Antitumor Astringent Bach Birthing aid Depurative Diaphoretic Diuretic Dysentery Eczema Emmenagogue Galactogogue Stimulant Tonic Vulnerary Vervain, which has tonic and restorative properties, is sometimes used as a domestic herbal remedy. It is useful when taken internally in the treatment of headaches, fevers, nervous exhaustion, depression, gall bladder problems, insufficient lactation etc[4, 238]. It should not be given to pregnant women, though it can be used to assist contractions during labour[238]. Externally, it is used to treat minor injuries, eczema, sores, neuralgia and gum disease[238]. The leaves and flowering stems are analgesic, antibacterial, anticoagulant, antispasmodic, astringent, depurative, diaphoretic, mildly diuretic, emmenagogue, galactogogue, stimulant, tonic and vulnerary[4, 9, 21, 147, 165, 176, 218, 238]. The plant is harvested as flowering begins in the summer and dried for later use[7, 238]. Some remarkable results have been obtained when using this plant in the treatment of certain tumours, but further research needs to be carried out before definite claims can be made[7]. The root is astringent, it is used in the treatment of dysentery[218]. This species was ranked 12th in a Chinese survey of 250 potential antifertility plants[218]. The plant is used in Bach flower remedies - the keywords for prescribing it are 'Strain', 'Stress', 'Tension' and 'Over-enthusiasm'[209].

Known Hazards

High doses of verbenalin can cause nervous system paralysis resulting in stupor & convulsion. Allopathic medicine for high blood pressure can be effected by vervain. Uterus stimulation possible - avoid during pregnancy. Avoid if breast feeding. If allergies or fits use with caution [301].