Some weeks back, I visited an uncle who is a botanist. He appeared too busy to have enough time to attend to me; he told me he was doing a research on a herb and apologized for his absence all the while I had been at his house. After hours of loneliness, I decided to engage him on his research, as that appeared to be the only way I could get his attention. Gladly, he told me about the herb. He must have felt lonely too. We had a good time talking about this herb, and one word I kept saying as he talked and I went through his papers was “amazing”. The herb, Wood Betony, got my attention since then. I did not only attend my uncle`s lecture on it, I carried out my research on it. I am glad I engaged my uncle that afternoon; now I have something to share with our amazing readers here. Ready? Let us talk about it!
Meet Wood Betony…
Wood Betony, also known as Stachys Officinalis, is an herbaceous plant species that belongs to the mints family. Native to Southern Europe, this grassland shrub houses upright stems that grow up to 2 feet tall, wearing purple colored flowers. History has it that the herb was first used against conditions of the mind that were believed to be caused by sorcery and witchcraft. So we have a health and spiritual beneficial herb here. *Winks* For centuries, wood betony has been a remedy to loads of health challenges such as maladies, diarrhea, asthma, hypertension gout, kidney problems and the list goes on. In fact, its usefulness in many ways led to the Spanish saying, “As many virtues as Betony.” I am sure you want to know more about this amazing herb. Let us get talking!
Let’s Discuss its Uses
To Maintain Mental Health
Surprised? Then you`ve got so much to be surprised about. we have just begun. Back in the day, Wood Betony was abundantly found in the gardens of churches and monasteries because it works effectively in treating anxiety, headaches, depression, and many other conditions that had psychological sides to them. Now here is the funny part of this gist: In those days, it was believed that the effectiveness of Wood Betony in this regard was related to their supposed ability of the herb to ward off ghosts, evil spirits and sorcerers because they believed then that those were the causes of such health challenges. Well, the herb actually did work for them. We know better now, and there’s even more to know. Keep reading to know more about this amazing herb.
For Better Circulation
Wood Betony has cleansing properties which over the years has made it recognized as an effective liver and blood detox agent. In ancient times, bloodletting was a common way to detox. This claimed a number of lives. However, when Wood Betony was discovered and applied, there existed an alternative to bloodletting. So because Wood Betony at the time was highly effective in the expelling toxins, bloodletting got discouraged. It is still effective, and we are grateful to nature for this amazing herb. Wood Betony contains natural compounds that promote better circulation and the expulsion of toxins from the liver.
It Prevents Oxidative Stress
Wood Betony contains organic compounds such as flavonoids that raise the antioxidant defense of cells. Wow! What else? They are actively involved in scavenging free radicals too because they neutralize reactive oxygen species. Wood Betony, through all these, prevents oxidative stress.
Wood Betony Makes Healing Faster
The anti-inflammatory properties of Wood Betony are useful in treating punctures, wounds, operations, and similar challenges. Wood Betony extracts raise the healing capacity of body tissues. That is just so cool.
It Clears Skin Rashes
So your beauty isn`t left out in its amazing uses. Interesting! Wood Betony works wonderfully as a topical anti-inflammatory agent for treating skin rashes, mouth sores, and other mucosal inflammations. Now you know just what to use to get rid of those skin rashes. Do you want to know more about Wood Betony? I feel so sure you do. Let us go on.
And the Respiratory System?
Wood Betony relaxes the smooth muscles of bronchi; through this, it opens up the lungs. It is exceptionally great for treating asthma and bronchitis. Its expectorant properties make it effective in liquefying the build up of sick muscles. I think it is getting more interesting.
It Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure has been an issue for a while, and the number of people who struggle with it is alarming. Wood Betony is able to lower blood pressure.
Now Migraines can Leave
Wood Betony is super effective in relieving patients of a migraine. Some persons even use it in combination with Jamaican dogwood and black cohosh to treat headaches and migraines. Wood Betony leaves you free of aches in your head. This herb is just so useful.
It is Sedative
Wood Betony relieves nervous stress, tension, headaches, and even facial pains. When combined with other herbs such as comfrey or linden, sinus headache and congestion can be dealt with.
What Else does the Amazing Herb Do?
It Treats Diarrhoea
Wood betony contains high tannin content which assures us of its effectiveness in treating diarrhea. It also treats mouth and throat irritation when used as a gargle or tea.
It Improves Kidney Functioning
Through its diuretic activity, urinary rate is increased, and toxins are eliminated from the urinary system. All these help in improving the functioning of the kidney, and treating Urinary Tract Infections (UTI).
It Improves Liver Functioning
Because Wood Betony is reliable when it concerns removing impurities from the blood, better functioning of the liver, gallbladder, and spleen is achieved. What an amazing herb it is, really.
It Relieves Menstrual Pain
Menstrual problems, over time, have been treated using Wood Betony. The herb is exceptionally excellent in relieving discomforts of menstrual cramps.
Side Effects of Wood Betony
When I realized that Wood Betony had side effects, I sighed and murmured “finally”, as the herb appeared too good to be true. But of course, like every other herb, it is both sides. Let us take a good look at its not-so-good sides.
Low Blood Pressure
Just as its ability to lower blood pressure is an advantage, it could be a disadvantage to those who are already experiencing low blood pressure, hypotension. People who are prone to low blood pressure may need to avoid Wood Betony because it is not safe for them. Also, people taking medications for high blood pressure should avoid it, as the level of reduction in their blood pressure may be a reason to worry.
Surgery Risks
Because Wood Betony lowers blood pressure, interference with blood pressure control is likely to occur during and after a surgery. This is not safe. It is advised to avoid Wood Betony about two weeks before a surgery to avoid complications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Although studies are yet to ascertain why exactly Wood Betony is not safe for people in these stages, medical experts advise that it should not be taken by them. So pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Wood Betony.
Final Words…
Did I tell you that I sent my research to my uncle? He was amazed. He advised that I be a botanist. We both had a good laugh. Now you know Wood Betony; you should tell somebody about it. Cheers.
