Vervain (Verbena officinalis)

Vervain (Verbena officinalis)

Botanical Classification

  • Scientific Name: Verbena officinalis
  • Family: Verbenaceae (Vervain family)
  • Common Names: Vervain, Wild Hyssop, Herb of the Cross, Enchanter’s Plant
Parts Used
  • Aerial Parts (Leaves, Stems, Flowers): Used fresh or dried in teas, tinctures, and powders for medicinal purposes.
  • Roots: Less commonly used but occasionally included in traditional remedies.
Constituents
  • Iridoids: Verbenalin, hastatoside (anti-inflammatory and calming effects).
  • Flavonoids: Apigenin, luteolin (antioxidant and neuroprotective properties).
  • Tannins: Aid in digestion and wound healing.
  • Alkaloids: Contribute to its mild sedative and relaxing effects.
  • Essential Oils: Contribute to its mild bitter and aromatic properties.

Medicinal Uses

Equine Use

  • Calming & Stress Relief: Used for anxious, nervous, or excitable horses, especially in stressful environments.
  • Muscle Relaxant: Helps with tension, stiffness, and nervous-related cramping.
  • Immune Boosting: Supports recovery from illness and general well-being.
  • Digestive Aid: Aids in reducing stress-related digestive upsets.
Usage:
  • Dried herb added to feed.
  • Tincture form can be mixed into water or feed.
  • Sometimes included in commercial calming blends.
⚠ Precautions:
  • Mildly bitter taste may make some horses refuse it.
  • Not recommended for pregnant mares due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
  • May have mild blood-thinning effects, so use cautiously in horses prone to bleeding disorders.

Canine Use

  • Anxiety & Stress Management: Helps with nervous dogs, separation anxiety, and excessive barking.
  • Pain Relief: Can aid in mild pain management for stiff muscles or injuries.
  • Digestive Tonic: Helps settle digestive upsets related to stress.
  • Skin & Wound Healing: Can be applied externally as a poultice for minor cuts and irritations.
Usage:
  • Can be given as dried herb mixed with food or as a tea/tincture added to water.
  • Poultices or washes can be used externally on minor wounds or irritated skin.
⚠ Precautions:
  • Should not be used in pregnant dogs due to possible uterine stimulation.
  • Excessive amounts may cause digestive upset.
  • May interact with medications for blood pressure or blood thinning.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore & Traditional Uses

  • Magical & Protective Herb: Vervain was considered a sacred and magical plant, often used in protective charms and spells.
  • Druidic & Celtic Use: The ancient Celts and Druids believed vervain had divine properties and used it in purification rituals.
  • Healing & Divination: In medieval Britain, vervain was thought to enhance prophetic dreams and visions.
  • Manx Traditions: On the Isle of Man, vervain was sometimes used in herbal medicine to treat nervous disorders and fevers.
  • Love & Luck Charms: It was sometimes worn or placed in homes to attract love and good fortune.

Conclusion

Vervain is a powerful nervine and calming herb with uses for humans, horses, and dogs. It is valued for anxiety relief, muscle relaxation, digestive support, and immune-boosting properties.

In UK and Isle of Man folklore, vervain was seen as a sacred, magical, and protective herb with strong ties to healing and divination.

While generally safe, it should be used in moderation, especially in pregnant animals or those on medications.

Calming

Digestion

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum)