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Vervain as an Herb
(Verbena officinalis)
The name Vervain is derived from the Celtic ferfaen, from fer (to drive away) and faen (a stone). Another derivation is given by some authors from Herba veneris, because of the aphrodisiac qualities attributed to it by the Ancients.
Priests used it for sacrifices, and hence the name Herba Sacra. The name Verbena was the classical Roman name for 'altar-plants' in general, and for this species in particular. The druids included it in their lustral water, and magicians and sorcerers employed it largely. It was used in various rites and incantations, and by ambassadors in making leagues. Bruised, it was worn round the neck as a charm against headaches, and also against snake and other venomous bites as well as for general good luck.
Vervain was thought to be good for the sight. Its virtues in all these directions may be due to the legend of its discovery on the Mount of Calvary, where it staunched the wounds of the crucified Saviour. Hence, it is crossed and blessed with a commemorative verse when it is gathered. It must be picked before flowering, and dried promptly.
Medicinal Uses for Vervain
Vervain is used to treat the liver and diseases related to the liver, exhaustion, fatigue, fever, insomnia, asthma, post-natal depression, as well as painful or irregular menses. It will also help increase the flow of a mother's milk.
As a poultice it is good in headache, ear neuralgia, rheumatism, etc. In this form it colors the skin a fine red, giving rise to the idea that it had the power of drawing the blood outside.
A decoction of 2 ounces to a quart, taken in the course of one day, is said to be a good medicine in purgings, easing pain in the bowels. It is often applied externally for piles. It is used in homoeopathy.
Suffer from piles?
Pilex ointment, with its anti-inflammatory, anti-infective and anti-haemorrhoidal properties, helps to shrink the pile mass, control bleeding and hasten the healing process in inflamed skin and mucous membranes.
Caution
Do not use during pregnancy.
DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.