Verbena
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For other uses, see Verbena (disambiguation).
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 Narrow-leafed Vervain (Verbena simplex)
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Verbena (Verbena or Vervain) is a genus of about 250 species of annual and perennial herbaceous plants in the Verbenaceae. The majority of the species are native to the New World from Canada south to southern Chile, but a few also native in the Old World, mainly in Europe (V. officinalis, V. supina).
The leaves are usually opposite, simple, and in many species hairy, often densely so. The flowers are small, white, pink, purple or blue, with five petals, and borne in dense spikes.
- Selected species
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[edit] Uses and legends
Vervain is believed to be a galactagogue.
Folk legend states that vervain (Common Vervain V. officinalis) was used to staunch Jesus's wounds after his removal from the cross.
[edit] Herbal Medicine
Vervain can be chopped finely and boiled with water to make tea. The tea has been used as a herbal remedy for insomnia at night and for general ailments during the day.
- Vervain Tea Recipes
FEVER REDUCER
2 tsp dried Catnip
1 tsp dry Vervain
Pour 2 cups boiling water over herbs. Steep 10 minutes & strain.
INSOMNIA
1 ½ oz dried Vervain leaves
1 oz Chamomile
½ oz Spearmint
Mix all and add to 1 cup boiling water. Steep 8 minutes; strain.
RELAXANT
1 ½ oz dried Vervain leaves
1 oz Valerian Root
½ oz Devils Hoof or Juniper
Allow to steep for 20 mins, use hot but NOT boiling water else you will destroy the active ingredient in the Valerian.
Strain, then drink 20 mins before bedtime.
[edit] See also
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