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Verbena Hastata

American vervain

Commonly known as blue verbain, is an herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Verbenaceae family. The plant has flowers that are tubular, a purple and blue color, which gives the plant its common name.

COMMON NAME

American vervain, blue vervain, simpler's joy, or swamp verbena

FAMILY NAME

Verbenaceae

ACTIONS

Verbena hastatais used as a parasympathomimetic, expectorant, anti-spasmodic, mild analgesic, nervous system tonic, bitter and emmenagogue.

BENEFITS

Blue vervain has many benefits including, aiding in stress reduction, promoting relaxation, stimulating the digestive system, aiding in respiratory issues and alleviating headache.

BENEFITS
Verbena hastata has been used for many various medical ailments and is greatly known to benefit those dealing with nervousness. The verbenalin in vervain is known for its calming effects and can help those suffering from anxiety or depression. It can also help those struggling with falling asleep or insomnia. On top of the relaxation benefits, Verbena hastata can be used to help clear respiratory passages, reduce fever, and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage conditions associated with inflammation.
USAGE
Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) has been used historically for medicinal purposes and in teas and tintures. It is typically consumed by drying the plant and boiling it into hot water to make a tea or tonic for calming the nervous system. Its preferable to collect the plant before and during it’s prime flowering month so that the leaves can be dried. The roots of the plant are used to treat depression, anxiety, cramps, jaundice and headaches.
MORE INFO
For centuries, Native Americans have used Verbena hastata, for medicinal purposes such as treating wounds, anxiety, and strengthen organ function. The blue vervain plant was also used as an antidote for American Pokeweed poisoning. On top of its therapeutic properties, Native Americans also used the plant in ritualistic ways including using it as an offering.