Blue Vervain Extract
Species Name: Verbena Hastata
Also known as: wild hyssop, simpler's joy, American Blue Vervain, herb of grace, herbe sacree, swamp verbena and travler's joy
Native to North America, blue vervain flowers in the summer and can easily be spotted growing along the roadside of many of the States in the USA. The light purple flowers, growing on spikes, and blooming from the bottom up, are scentless.
Growing up to five feet high, this member of the mint family has cord shaped stems that can be blue or red. It is also not uncommon to find it growing quite prominently in England under the name Vervain officinalis.
There are a number of species that fall within the verbenaceae family. It is believed that for the most part they all have similar qualities and can treat the same range of ailments
There is also some folk lore attached to blue vervain. It was used in ceremonies and was considered to be holy, earning the name Herbra Sacra or "sacred herb". It was also thought to have power against plagues and to be an aphrodisiac and a love potion.
What is blue vervain extract? Blue vervain itself is edible, the seeds can be eaten and even made into a flour, but it is the leaves, flower and stem that hold the medicinal qualities. These are harvested and then extracted. This herb also comes in a powder, capsule and a tea.
Home Remedies Using Blue Vervain Extract
Benefits of Blue Vervain Extract
There are many wonderful uses from a medicinal standpoint when it comes to blue vervain extract as it was thought to be a cure-all. It was used by Native Americans for general ailments like upset stomach, common colds, fevers and coughs.
Celtic for "fer" (to drive away) and "faen" (a stone) this herb has also been used historically to treat bladder problems. It is hailed as being a potent treatment for liver and spleen ailments and is used for hemorrhoids both externally and internally.
Today it can be used as a tonic for females to help with cramps, menopause and PMS as it has pain relieving qualities. It is said to increase breast milk and to help with after birth issues.
Blue vervain can help with painful joints, ease the nervous system and positively affect mood. It is used for insomnia and some have reported that it is beneficial in the treatment of epilepsy.
Individuals suffering from intestinal worms have used blue vervain as the first course of treatment. It is also used as a laxative, for intestinal pain, diarrhea and jaundice. It can increase sweating and reduce fevers.
Although there have been very few studies on one specific species it was found that vervain in general has tannins and flavonoids. It also contains vitamin C and E as well as calcium and manganese.
Side Effects of Blue Vervain Extract
Although considered safe in small amounts vervain extract could interfere or interact with sedatives.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid use as it can cause uterine contractions.
May cause nausea or skin rash and irritation.
Please consult with a doctor before using any herbal extract.
