Vervain

Common Name:

Vervain (also called Blue Vervain or Verbena)

Botanical Name:

Verbena officinalis (European), Verbena hastata (Blue Vervain – North American species)

Short Description:

Vervain is a bitter nervine and relaxant used to calm nervous tension, especially when tied to overthinking, rigidity, or perfectionism. It gently supports digestion, liver function, and the nervous system, particularly for type-A personalities.

Parts Used:

Aerial parts (flowering tops)

Actions:

Nervine, bitter tonic, antispasmodic, hepatic, sedative (mild), diaphoretic

Energetics:

Cooling, drying, bitter

Body Systems:

Nervous, digestive, hepatic, musculoskeletal

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Supports spiritual release and surrender. Vervain helps those who carry the weight of the world or try to control everything. It facilitates softening, letting go, and trust in divine timing.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Mercury and Saturn
Dosha: Balances Pitta and Kapha; may aggravate Vata in excess

Safety Notes:

Avoid in pregnancy due to uterine-stimulating properties. Best as a tincture or infusion. Strong taste—often blended with more palatable herbs.