Vervain

At a Glance

Common name

Vervain

Scientific name

Verbena officinalis

Family

Verbenaceae

Region

Europe

Plant part

Aerial parts

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A slender upright perennial with opposite lobed green leaves and tall narrow spikes of tiny pale lilac tubular flowers. Long revered across European and Mediterranean traditions.

Also known as: Common Vervain, Herb of Grace, Verbena, Holy Herb

Historical Background

Sacred to the Celts and Romans as 'herb of grace' and 'holy herb', vervain was used in ritual and medicine for nerves, digestion, and as a gentle tonic; a mainstay of European folk practice.

Earliest recorded uses: Nervous tension, gentle relaxation, weak digestion, and as a restorative tonic.

Cultural significance: Revered in Druidic, Roman, and Christian folk tradition; long a protective and healing plant of hedgerows.

1. Classical

   Romans and Celts revere vervain in ritual and medicine.

2. European

   Used as a nervine and digestive tonic in folk practice.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Faint, green and herbaceous

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Iridoids and verbascoside are studied for mild anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects; clinical evidence is limited.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.