Holistic practitioners and herbalists believe that blue verbena has healing properties, including:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antibacterial
- Antispasmodic
- Analgesic (analgesic)
- Nervous
Stress treatment
Common uses of blue vervain include as a nerve calmer for us anxious overthinkers, and as a treatment for depression. The above-ground parts are harvested and dried during flowering, while the root is also used. Researchers linked this to the plant’s levels of flavonoids and tannins, both of which are known to have anti-anxiety and sedative properties.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic
The anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic properties of blue vervain are similar to those of aspirin and are said to provide relief from gout.
This herb is also a gentle astringent that has been used as a mouthwash for sore, inflamed and bleeding gums; as an eye wash for tired, inflamed eyes; and to help irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), cough or asthma. Its astringent action, combined with its antispasmodic properties, makes it useful for IBS and relieves constipation. It also stimulates kidney and liver function.
Antimicrobial
Verbena extract from the strain of V. officinalis killed the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the test tube more effectively than the antibiotic amoxicillin. Likewise, the leaves of the plant showed significant activity against the bacterium Citrobacter freundii. The root proved to be very effective against the bacterium Bacillus subtilis.
Balancing hormones
Vervain is useful for increasing perspiration and regulating temperature, which helps when a person is sick. It has positive benefits that improve a person’s mood, making it a great pick-me-up during recovery from illness. Vervain balances hormones and normalizes thyroid function. It is used to treat menstrual cramps and symptoms, including hormonal headaches, and is useful as a tincture to cool menopausal hot flashes and reduce mood swings.