Vervain (Verbena officinalis), also known as common vervain or common verbena, is a flowering perennial plant native to Europe, North America, and Asia. The plant is recognized by its jagged, tooth-shaped leaves and clusters of delicate, mauve or pale-purple blossoms. Rich in compounds known as flavonoids, vervain is a potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antispasmodic, anti-depressant, anxiolytic, and has analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. It also helps women who are having trouble with irregular menses to regulate their cycle. Traditional healers contend that vervain has anti-tumor properties that can help fight cancer, though no clinical research has been done to support that assertion.
Druids refer to Vervain as “The Enchanter’s Plant” and the “Herb of Grace.” They gather the plant with an offering of honey made to the earth at Midsummer when the Dog Star, Sirius, rises. It is used as an altar plant, and is added to the lustral water used to cleanse the grove or ritual circle. It is hung by the bed to ensure good dreams, and is carried on one’s person for spiritual protection while travelling. Vervain is taken by Druids as a curative tea to relieve anxiety and depression, aches and pains, jaundice, stomach and bladder ailments, sleep issues, and reduce cancer risk. It is also proof against dark magic.
Vervain tea is an herbal tea that is prepared by steeping the leaves and flowers of the vervain plant. The taste of this tea is extremely bitter, so it is commonly mixed with other herbs or is sweetened with honey.
1. Bring a saucepan of water to boil.
2. Pour four (4) teaspoons (tsp) of chopped vervain over the
boiling water and allow the tea to steep for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the chopped vervain from the tea.
4. Add honey, lemon, or stevia to enhance the flavor.
Drink three cups per day for acute symptoms, one cup per day for preventative or maintenance purposes. Drink a cup before going to bed to ensure better sleep.
Spirit of the Alleghenies 