Vervain
Common names: Vervain, verbena, yerba de Santa Ana, enchanter's plant, herb of the cross, Juno's tears, pigeon's grass, pigeonweed, herb of grace, prostrate verbena, erba croce, erba dei tagli
Efficacy-safety rating:
ÒÒ...Ethno or other evidence of efficacy.
Safety rating:
●...Little exposure or very minor concerns.What is Vervain?
Vervain is a slender perennial plant with small, pale lilac flowers borne on leafless spikes. It is indigenous to the Mediterranean but has been cultivated widely throughout eastern Europe, North Africa, China, and Japan. The name “verbenae” originally was used in Roman times to describe all plants used on altars for their aromatic qualities.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can react adversely with over 85 prescription medications.
What is Vervain used for?
Traditional/Ethnobotanical usesThe aerial parts have been used traditionally for many conditions, including stimulation of lactation and treatment of dysmenorrhea, jaundice, gout, kidney stones, headache, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Vervain is also considered an astringent, a bitter digestive tonic, and a diuretic.
General usesVervain has been used for many conditions, including stimulation of lactation and treatment of dysmenorrhea, jaundice, gout, kidney stones, and headache; however, there are few clinical trials of vervain or its components.
What is the dosage of Vervain?
There is no clinical evidence to support specific dose recommendations for vervain. Traditional use for its astringent properties required 2 to 4 g daily in an infusion.
Is Vervain safe?
ContraindicationsContraindications have not been identified.
Pregnancy/nursingDocumented adverse reactions. Avoid use.
InteractionsNone well documented.
Side EffectsResearch reveals little or no information regarding adverse reactions with the use of this product.
ToxicitiesNo toxicology studies have been reported on vervain.
References
- Vervain. Review of Natural Products. Facts and Comparisons 4.0. May 2008. Accessed April 24, 2007.
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