Few herbs have such a fascinating history and use in folklore and legend as Vervain.
Also known as Blue Vervain or Verbena, the ancients—including witches, herbalists, and eclectic practitioners—used this herb for protection, in religious ceremonies, and as an herbal aphrodisiac.
It was also sought-after for its relaxation, skin-nourishing, and digestion-support properties and even for supposedly warding off vampires and other evil spirits!
Although we cannot validate its effects on vampires or evil spirits, we can share the science behind many of its purported health-supportive traditional uses, side effects, and contraindications.
What is Vervain?
Vervain, also known as Blue Vervain, Verbena, Holy or Sacred Herb, White Vervain, and Verbena Officinalis, has a long history of use in traditional wellness practices spanning from North America and Europe to China.
As mentioned in the introduction, Vervain has a rich history of eclectic traditional uses, including: REF#2732 REF#2733 REF#2734 REF#2735 REF#2736
- As an aphrodisiac
- For occasional gas
- Digestive support
- Inflammatory response support
- Liver support
- Minor pain support
- Nervous system support
- Oral health
- Skin health
- Reproductive function
- Protection
- To promote calmness
- To ward off evil spirits
- Top support production of breastmilk
- Sleep support
- In spiritual and religious ceremonies
It’s also rumored to have been used as a vampire poison, which may relate to its use as a protective herb in spiritual or religious ceremonies.
7 Benefits of Vervain
In traditional herbalism, Vervain is considered a nervine.
Nervines are a classification of herbs that support the nervous and limbic systems to benefit stress response, sleep, inflammatory response, and other functions related to the nervous system*.
Although the exact mechanisms behind Vervain/Blue Vervains' traditional uses are still under investigation, research has shown Vervain contains 20+ active plant compounds, which may be responsible for its potential benefits.REF#2737
Some of these include:
- Antioxidants
- Apigenin
- Essential oils
- Various flavonoids
- Iridoid glycosides
- Kaempferol
- Luteolin
- Tannins
- Triterpenoids
Research has shown these, and other active plant compounds, may provide benefits for:REF#2738
- Cell function
- Cognitive function
- Emotional well-being
- Digestive function
- Nervous system function
- Neurological function
- Sleep
- And more
In the following sections, we’ll explore deeper into the research behind Vervain and how it may benefit your health.
1. Vervain Contains Antioxidants
As you’ve just learned, research has shown Vervain contains various types of antioxidants, such as flavonoids.REF#2739
Antioxidants support cell health by curbing the effects of free radicals, which promotes various aspects of normal bodily function.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage if left unchecked.
As a source of flavonoids and other antioxidants, Vervain provides antioxidant support which may benefit inflammatory response, cell function, normal aging, and more.REF#2740
2. Vervain May Support Sleep
As a nervine, Vervain has long been used to promote a sense of calm, soothe stress, and support a good night’s rest*.
Vervain tea, for example, is well-known as a natural sleep aid for occasional sleeplessness*.
Emerging research has begun to explain how Vervain may support sleep.
An animal study analyzed various plant compounds in Vervain, and found its major iridoids (hastatoside and verbenalin), are the main sleep-inducing components.REF#2741
Additional studies have shown a possible link between Vervain relaxation and sleep quality, but more research is needed.REF#2742 REF#2743
We’ll share how to make Vervain tea later in this piece.
3. Vervain May Promote Normal Digestive Function
When seeking support for occasional digestive upset, most herb lovers reach for old favorites like Peppermint, Chamomile, or Ginger.
However, Vervain or Vervain tea was often the herb of choice among traditional herbalists and practitioners who considered it support for occasional gas and for the digestive system.REF#2744
Although more robust human trials are needed, preliminary animal studies show Vervain may support digestive function by supporting normal bacterial balance and motility within the digestive tract.REF#2745 REF#2746
Animal research also suggests Vervain’s active plant compounds, such as tannins, may possess gastro-protective properties, but more research is needed.REF#2747
Vervain’s mild calming and nerve-support properties may also promote normal digestion by promoting feelings of calm.REF#2748
4. Vervain May Help With Minor Management Of Pain
For centuries, people have relied on herbs, bodywork, hot/cold therapy, and other natural substances to help manage minor aches and pains.
Vervain was one of the herbs traditionally used for minor pain management as a topical application and/or internal tonic.
Science has just begun to explain Vervain’s potential effects on minor pain.
For example, as previously noted, we know Vervain contains various antioxidants which may help support normal inflammatory response.
This feature was the subject of a study on the topical use of a Vervain preparation, which showed mild pain-relieving activity compared to a methyl salicylate ointment. More research is needed.REF#2749
5. Vervain May Support Cognitive Function
Vervain’s traditional use as a nervous system tonic (the nervous system includes the brain) explains its traditional use for cognitive support*.
Emerging research suggests the same.
One study published in the Journal of Neuropharmacology found Vervain extract to possess novel neuroprotective effects by supporting the normal function of neurons.REF#2750
Other research has shown a potentially beneficial effect on the neurological system, thanks, in part, to Vervain’s mild calming properties and antioxidants.REF#2751 REF#2752
6. Vervain May Help Ease Everyday Stress
Nervines, like Vervain, are staples in traditional herbalism for supporting a healthy response to stress and promoting emotional well-being*.
Research has begun to support this traditional use by showing Vervain may promote feelings of calm while helping with occasional anxiousness and stress.REF#2753
More research is needed to make a recommendation.
7. Vervain May Support Your Gums
Early research suggests Vervain may benefit oral health.
One double-blind, randomized, controlled multicenter clinical trial of over 200 people found Vervain extract supported better gum health when used short-term.REF#2754
Although researchers did not specify their thoughts on its actions, it could relate to Vervain bacterial balancing and antioxidant support properties, which may positively impact the oral microbiome.
More research is needed. However, if you see Blue Vervain listed as an ingredient in natural mouthwash, you’ll know why.
How To Make Vervain Tea
Before modern extraction methods were available, Vervain was often prepared and recommended as a tea.
Vervain is still common in many tea blends to promote relaxation and support sleep*.
You can buy pre-made tea with Vervain or make your own version, using 100% Vervain or a combination of Vervain and other calming herbs such as Lemon Balm, Chamomile, and Lavender.
Here’s how to make classic Vervain tea:
- Pour boiling water over 1-3 teaspoons of dried Vervain.
- Let steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Flavor with honey and/or lemon and sip slowly.
Although many people love the flavor of Vervain, some find it too bitter. If so, consider blending it with some of the herbs listed above.
The addition of a sweetener, such as raw honey or stevia, can also help the taste.
Side Effects & Contraindications of Vervain
Vervain has been used as a wellness elixir, tea, and topical application for centuries and is considered safe in normal doses.
It is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, and side effects are rare and may include gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas or bloating.REF#2755
In rare cases, allergic or skin reactions, such as rash, may occur.
There is not enough data on Vervain to recommend its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Some research suggests plants like Vervain that contain Vitamin K may be contraindicated with blood thinning medications.REF#2756
Always check with your doctor if you are taking medications or have a pre-existing condition.
How To Source High-Quality Vervain
Vervain’s fascinating history and emerging research makes it an enticing nervine to consider.
When buying Vervain in bulk or Vervain supplements, seek out a reputable vendor who tests for identity and purity, and opt for organic or wild-crafted Vervain as much as possible.
Blue Vervain is also easy to grow in most parts of the country and is a favorite of pollinators. And as an ornamental perennial, it will return year after year if properly cared for.
If you grow your own Blue Vervain, plant it in well-draining soil in either full sun or partial sun and harvest the above-ground parts to use in tea.