Vervain

Common name: European vervain

Botanical name: Verbena officinalis

Parts used and where grown

The most commonly used species is European vervain (Verbena officinalis), though blue vervain (V. hastata) and V. macdougalii, among others, are probably interchangeable. V. officinalis is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and has spread to North America. Other medicinal species are native to North America. The leaf and flower are used in herbal medicine.

Vervain has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings

Health Concerns

Colic (in combination with chamomile, liquorice, fennel, and lemon balm)

Depression

Dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation)

Indigestion

Sinusitis (in combination with gentian root, primrose flowers, sorrel herb, and elder flowers)

Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars

Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star

For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Due to its bitter taste, herbalists used vervain to improve digestion. Vervain was also used to treat people with depression and spastic pains in the gastrointestinal tract, as a mild diaphoretic (to induce sweating and promote mild fevers), and for all manner of female reproductive system problems when associated with melancholy or anxiety.¹ Early 20th century Eclectic physicians (doctors who recommended herbal medicines) in the United States felt vervain might be helpful for mild digestive problems.² Vervain also has a reputation as a traditional remedy for stimulating production of breast milk.³

Active constituents

The active constituents of vervain have not been thoroughly demonstrated. Glycosides, such as verbenalin and aucubin, and a volatile oil may all contribute to its activity.⁴ No human studies have documented the use of this herb for any condition.

How much is usually taken?

A tea of vervain leaves and flowers is prepared by adding 1–2 teaspoons (2–4 grams) to a pint (500 ml) of hot water which is left to steep, covered, for 10–15 minutes.⁵ Three cups (750 ml) per day are typically recommended by doctors. The taste of the tea is fairly disagreeable, therefore, most people prefer a tincture. Tincture, 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 ml) three times per day, is also suggested.⁶

Are there any side effects or interactions?

No adverse effects of vervain have been reported. Vervain should be avoided during pregnancy.⁷ Although, traditionally, its use was during the last two weeks of pregnancy to facilitate labour. Vervain should be used during pregnancy only under the guidance of a healthcare professional experienced in herbal medicine.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with vervain.

References
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1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 263.

2. Felter HW. Eclectic Materia Medica, Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1922, 693–4.

3. Oliver-Bever BEP. Medicinal Plants in Tropical West Africa. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1986.

4. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 263.

5. British Herbal Medicine Association. British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. West York, UK: BHMA, 1983.

6. British Herbal Medicine Association. British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. West York, UK: BHMA, 1983.

7. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A (eds). American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.