Verbena is a plant present in many parts of the world: it grows both in Europe and in Africa and Asia. It has been used as a medicinal plant for millennia. Even the Romans and Celts attributed magical properties to it for a long time.
In many folk tales, verbena is known as an enchanted herb. And thanks to this miraculous qualities were attributed to him and it was believed that he brought good luck.
But if we turn to reality, this is an almost magical plant for its many qualities and healing properties that have been used by natural medicine to this day. But what are its health benefits? And in what way can it be consumed?
Verbena is ideal for treating digestive disorders
Among the main health benefits of verbena, its beneficial action on digestive disorders stands out. Verbena is highly recommended in cases of indigestion, stomach inflammation, flatulence, diarrhea, and nausea and stomach pains.
The simplest method to take advantage of these digestive virtues is to take verbena-based capsules available in pharmacies: the usual dose is one to two capsules at mealtime, but read the instructions for use of the product carefully.
You can also easily make an infusion by pouring boiling water over the verbena. Wait about ten minutes before straining the drink and drink your verbena infusion after meals.
A gentle solution against menstrual disorders
Verbena has an interesting action on hormonal activity. Hence, it is commonly used to relieve premenstrual pain and treat irregular periods. Again, you can consume the verbena as an infusion or through capsules.
Verbena to combat stress and anxiety
Among other health benefits, verbena has sedative and relaxing properties: it acts directly on the central nervous system to calm it. It is perfect in case of stress, anxiety or temporary depression. You can also consume verbena to fall asleep more easily.
If you want to take advantage of the benefits of verbena to treat insomnia and anxiety disorders, it is recommended that you consume it mainly in the form of an infusion. Verbena officinalis tincture is also highly recommended in this type of case: follow the explanatory leaflet of the product to know the number of drops to use.
Use this plant to relieve pain
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, verbena is very popular for relieving pain from arthritis (inflammation of the joints). It is also an effective muscle relaxant. You can use it in particular to relieve rheumatism, pain or even tension.
Finally, in case of having suffered a stroke, this plant also has a beneficial effect on bruises and other bruises. To take full advantage of these benefits, the easiest way to use it is to massage the painful area with a vegetable oil in which you have previously diluted a few drops of verbena essential oil.
Warning: essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution. Many of them cannot be used during pregnancy, lactation and in young children: it is best to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using them.
Side effects and contraindications
It is strongly recommended to seek medical advice before using verbena, both orally and externally. Why? Simply because there are many contraindications to the use of this plant.
It is best not to use it particularly if you suffer from liver failure, blood clotting disorders, blood pressure problems (hypertension or hypotension), anemia or neurological disorders.
In addition, overlain can have unwanted interactions with many medications, especially antibiotics, blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, and antihypertensive. It also interrupts the action of certain hormonal therapies (this plant could especially alter the action of estrogens).
As for the known side effects, there are mainly allergy risks: they can be manifested by skin reactions or, very rarely, by anaphylactic shock. Finally, it should be noted that the effects of this plant during pregnancy and lactation are not yet well understood: it is safer to avoid this plant during these periods.