Blue Vervain, which is also known as Simpler’s Joy, is a plant with violet flowers that contains a host of medicinal benefits. So many years ago, the vervain was used as an aphrodisiac but these days, it is used as an antidepressant and tranquilizing agent. Some of the most amazing health benefits of blue vervain include its ability to detoxify the body, stimulate the liver, soothe the nervous system, eliminate chest congestion, reduce depression and stress, alleviate pain, lower inflammation, and enhance the body’s immunity.
Blue vervain is also used in various forms – flower essence, tea, powder, capsules, and tincture.
Now, let’s check out some of the incredible health benefits of blue vervain.
Contains Detoxifying Properties
The herb is popular for helping to induce sweating and eliminating toxins from their body through sweat. This means that blue vervain also helps the skin look supple and radiant.
Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Vervain contains natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective remedy for fever and cold. Apart from relieving body pain, it also lowers high-temperature levels caused by fevers, as well as provide relief from sinusitis and migraine. Blue vervain is a natural stimulant that also helps to revitalize the body after a severe episode of fever. In fact, vervain is effective in eliminating phlegm from the throat, thus providing relief from persistent bouts of cough.
Enhances Mood
Vervain is potent for easing the feelings linked to stress and anxiety. By simply drinking a cup of vervain tea, it can have a soothing effect on the central nervous system. This can then turn trigger a sensation of calmness and relaxation. Thus, this herb has been widely used to aid people suffering from depression and stress. Vervain is also believed to be effective in easing post-traumatic stress as well as insomnia. Just drink a cup of warm vervain tea 30 minutes before you hit your bed for a good night’s sleep. As a natural tranquilizing agent, it is an effective antidote for stress and irritation.
Antispasmodic Properties
This ancient herb is known to possess antispasmodic properties. That is why it is highly recommended by traditional physicians as a medication for muscle cramps, pains, and spasms. It can be used as a poultice to ease pain associated with medical conditions such as ear neuralgia and rheumatism.
Ensures a Healthy Gut
This herb, in the form of tea, can be used as a natural drink to ease digestive disorders and keep the gut healthy. It has been a sought-after remedy for various common problems affecting your tummy, including bloating, cramps, and flatulence. A natural remedy for vomiting and diarrhea, this herb is also known to boost nutrient absorption. Get rid of the worms and toxins from your stomach with this herb. The herb can be used as a good laxative as well. Some studies have shown that a regular use of the vervain decoction can provide relief from vomiting. When applied externally, This herb can also cure piles.
Great for Women’s Health
Loaded with an amazing mood improving agents, this herb helps in relieving the anxiety and mood swings experienced by women during the premenstrual period. Vervain is also used to induce menstrual cycle in women whose periods are irregular.
The herb has the potential to induce uterine contractions, and so, it can be used to induce labor and speed up childbirth. Studies also indicate that using vervain aids in improving lactation levels naturally after delivery.
Improves Oral Health
Give your gums and teeth a dose of goodness by chewing this herb regularly. A very effective traditional medication for bleeding gums, this herb is also known to ease the pain and redness experienced due to mouth ulcers.
Beneficial for the Skin
The natural astringent and anti-inflammatory properties of this herb enables it to be used as a natural remedy for various skin infections. Studies also suggest that this herb is useful in protecting wounds from infections. It also helps to get rid of the toxins inflicted from insect bites.
Natural Liver Tonic
This herb is known to bestow the liver with various benefits. The anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties of this herb enable it to be used effectively in the treatment of jaundice by cleansing the liver.
Prevents Kidney Stones
Just prepare a mixture by steeping 1 tbsp dry blue vervain leaves in one pint boiling water for 10 minutes. Consume about 6 tbsp every day, spread over 6 doses, to get rid of urinary bladder infections and kidney stones.
Cures Malaria
The ancient Chinese medicine suggests the use of the roots of Blue Vervain as a natural cure for malaria.
Side Effects and Precaution
While blue vervain contains a wide range of health benefits, it should be used in small amounts. Excessively consuming this herb can result in vomiting and dehydration. Pregnant women are also advised against consuming the herb, especially during the first few months of pregnancy. This is because the herb can induce uterine contractions and lactation.
There have been reports of side effects from the use of blue vervain or verbena supplements, however, upset stomachs rarely happen. Also, when consumed in large amounts, such as in supplements, mild skin rashes may also appear.
And like any other herbal remedy, blue vervain can interact with some medications or treatments. So it is always advisable to consult with a doctor before incorporating it into your regimen.
