Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Notebook

Common Vervain

Verbena officinalis

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the plant has traditionally been associated with emmenagogue properties. Avoid in case of anticoagulant treatment without prior medical advice. Do not exceed traditional usual doses; prolonged use should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before any use in children.

Infusion — Dried flowering aerial parts

Traditional evening infusion

Pour simmering water over the dried flowering tops and let steep for about ten minutes, covered. Strain before drinking, preferably at the end of the day. One teaspoon of dried plant per cup, once or twice a day.

Decoction — Dried leaves and stems

Decoction for compress

Gently boil a few handfuls of dried plant in water for several minutes, then let cool. Soak a clean compress for external use on the skin. Dosage should be verified with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Tincture — Fresh or dried aerial parts

Herbal tincture

Preparation generally made by a professional herbalist from alcohol and fresh or dried plant, macerated for several weeks. Use and dosage should be determined with a qualified professional due to higher concentration of active principles. Dosage should be verified with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

Common vervain can be found growing wild in wastelands, embankments, and roadsides throughout Europe, as well as dried in herbal shops in the form of loose plant material or infusion sachets.

Harvest season

When to harvest

The harvest of flowering aerial parts is traditionally done in summer, from June to September, in dry weather.

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