Also indexed as:Verbena officinalis
Vervain: Main Image © Martin Wall
Botanical names:
Verbena officinalis

Parts Used & 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.





Used for AmountWhy

(Chamomile, Fennel, Lemon Balm, Licorice)
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Vervain is a traditional herb used for depression.
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Vervain is a traditional herb for dysmenorrhea.
Indigestion, Heartburn, and Low Stomach Acidity
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Vervain is a digestive stimulant widely used in traditional medicine in North America.

(Elder Flower, Gentian Root, Primrose Flowers, Sorrel)
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Traditional Use (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

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