Blue Vervain
Latin: Verbena Hastata
Parts used: Aerial parts
Flavors: Bitter, pungent
Energetics: Cooling
Actions: Nervine, bitter tonic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, hypotensive
Affinities: Nervous system, musculoskeletal system, digestive system, liver, female reproductive system
Blue Vervain is a native North American perennial valued as a bitter nervine, relaxant, and tonic for physical and mental tension. This herb acts as a non-sedating nervine that is great for those with “type-A” personalities or overachievers who tend to hold a lot of tension in the neck, upper back, and shoulders. As an antispasmodic, it offers relaxation and soothes muscles spasms and constricted muscles. It’s bitter flavor supports sluggish digestion, liver/ gallbladder function, and overall GI function. Blue Vervain also promotes sweating, assisting with breaking fevers and clearing respiratory congestion during a cold or flu.
