Verbena: Applications and Uses

Vervain is used only in folk medicine, among other things, for diseases of the upper respiratory tract. The plant was negatively evaluated by Commission E because the effectiveness in the claimed areas of application has not yet been scientifically proven. Therefore, a therapeutic application cannot be approved. However, since there are also no risks when ingested, the use in combination with other positively evaluated plants is justifiable.

Vervain in folk medicine

Known early as an anti-inflammatory and diuretic, vervain is now used in folk medicine for a variety of different diseases and ailments. Thus, the herb is said to provide relief for diseases in the area of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa and the upper respiratory tract, such as inflamed mucous membranes (catarrh), tonsillitis (angina), sore throat, cough, whooping cough and asthma.

In addition, vervain is used to treat cramps, fatigue, exhaustion, nervous disorders, digestive problems, jaundice, diseases of the liver, gall bladder, kidney and urinary tract, pain, rheumatic diseases, gout and metabolic disorders.

In women, the plant is said to have a positive effect on menopausal symptoms, irregular periods and problems with breastfeeding. Finally, the herb is used externally for poorly healing wounds, burns and ulcers.

Homeopathic use of verbena.

In homeopathy, the fresh above-ground shoots of vervain collected at flowering time are used to treat bruises and cerebral seizure disorders.

Ingredients of vervain

Iridoid glycosides such as verbenin, verbenalin and hastatoside are considered to be the main active ingredients in vervain. Furthermore, caffeic acid derivatives such as verbascoside, flavonoids, stachyose, ursolic acid and traces of essential oil are present.

Vervain: for what indication?

Vervain is used only folk medicine for the following indications: