Verbena herb: useful properties and contraindications, from which it helps, use in folk medicine, photo

The medicinal properties of verbena officinalis make it possible to use it in alternative medicine. The plant is famous for its powerful anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. The greatest concentration of useful elements of grass is concentrated in the ground part. It is she who is used to prepare effective means of alternative therapy.

What does Verbena officinalis look like and where does it grow?

Verbena officinalis is a representative of perennial plants belonging to the Verbenov family. The people also called it iron ore and holy grass. The second name is due to the magical properties that were attributed to the plant. It was believed that it protects from curses and cures all diseases. The herb was often used in various rituals and the creation of amulets.

Verbena can reach a height of 60 cm. The plant has a powerful root system and an erect stem. The flowering process takes place in the middle of summer. The upper inflorescences form into a panicle, and the rest resemble an ear in their shape. The fruits appear in September. They are a spherical box containing seeds.

The plant is often grown to decorate garden plots.

Due to its unpretentiousness, verbena can be found in countries with different climates. It grows in Australia, Africa, in the central and northern regions of America. In Russia, the grass is widespread in Siberia, the Caucasus and the Urals. Since verbena is considered a weed, it is rarely cultivated on purpose.

The chemical composition of verbena officinalis

The healing properties of verbena are due to its rich chemical composition. It includes various trace elements, vitamins and essential oils. They provide general body strengthening and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant. Useful substances are concentrated both in the leaf part and in the roots and stems. They are found in large quantities in essential oil. The composition of verbena is represented by the following components:

• glycosides;
• vitamin C;
• flavonoids;
• tannins;
• slime;
• carotenoids;
• steroids;
• triterpenoids;
• tannin;
• silicic acid;
• essential oils.

Tannin has powerful protective properties and is antimicrobial. Steroids in verbena prevent the deposition of cholesterol in the vessels. Glycosides help to achieve an antibacterial effect and relieve dry coughs. The main function of carotene is to maintain immunity. Flavonoids, in turn, increase tissue elasticity. Essential oils have a calming effect.

What helps the healing properties of verbena herb

The constituent components of the holy herb are involved in important biological processes in the body. They normalize metabolism and strengthen the immune system.Verbena effectively treats diseases accompanied by inflammatory and infectious processes. The most pronounced medicinal properties of the plant include:

• antipyretic effect;
• normalization of the kidneys and liver;
• strengthening the immune system;
• regeneration of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract;
• antioxidant effect;
• strengthening of vascular walls
• choleretic and diuretic action;
• lowering blood cholesterol levels;
• increased appetite;
• restoration of metabolism;
• antimicrobial action.

In non-traditional treatment, decoctions, tinctures and verbena essential oil are used. They have powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The plant's essential oil is often used to remove free radicals from the body and eliminate a number of diseases.

Taken internally, the plant's essential oil can help you lose weight

Verbena has the following indications for use:

• bronchial asthma;
• depressive disorders;
• female diseases;
• cold;
• vegetative vascular dystonia;
• skin diseases;
• physical exhaustion;
• hypotension;
• diseases of the digestive system;
• migraine.

The use of verbena medicinal in folk medicine does not end with the listed diseases. In combination with peony seeds, it is often used to treat epilepsy. The absorbing and regenerating properties of the plant are relevant in the presence of bruises and abrasions. After heavy physical exertion, it relieves muscle spasms and relieves swelling of the lower extremities.

For women

It is believed that verbena is extremely beneficial for the female body. The plant's antispasmodic properties make it useful for reducing menstrual pain. In addition, verbena is of particular value in cosmetology. Vitamins in its composition provide elimination of signs of skin aging and strengthening of hair follicles. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, holy herb essential oil eliminates eczema and pustular eruptions. It is able to even out skin relief and make it more elastic.

The benefits and harms of verbena are especially relevant for women in a state of menopause. The herb helps to relieve nervousness and headaches. It smooths out the manifestations of hormonal changes, thereby normalizing a woman's well-being.

How to take vervain correctly

In the instructions for use for vervain, certain rules of admission are prescribed. They are focused on the treatment of specific diseases. Dosages and duration of therapy may vary, depending on the severity of the disease. The optimal duration of treatment is 1–2 months. In acute diseases, it is enough to use a remedy for 2-3 weeks. Drops based on verbena oil are instilled into the nose with a cold, 2 drops 3 times a day. Before using a medicinal plant, you should exclude the presence of an allergic reaction.

Infusions

Components:

• 2 tsp dry verbena;
• 1 tbsp. hot water.

Cooking process:

1. Raw materials are poured into a suitable container and poured with boiling water.
2. After 1 hour of infusion, the drink is filtered with a sieve or gauze.
3. Ready infusion is taken chilled, 100 ml twice a day.

The broth has a specific herbaceous flavor

Tinctures

Iron ore tincture has a pronounced choleretic effect. It is taken for problems with the liver and gallbladder. The tincture promotes the production of gastric juice and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients:

• 700 ml of vodka;
• 50 g verbena.

Recipe:

1. Dry grass is poured into a dark glass bottle. Then it is poured with vodka.
2. The container is sealed and shaken thoroughly.
3. The tincture is kept in a dark place for 3 weeks.
4. Reception of the finished product is carried out in 1 tsp. before every meal.

The tincture is prohibited for pregnant and lactating women

Decoctions

A decoction of verbena perfectly reduces the level of harmful cholesterol in the blood and prevents the development of thrombosis. It effectively cleans the vascular cavity and helps to strengthen them. For medicinal purposes, the broth is taken 20-30 minutes before meals.

Components:

• 2 tsp dry raw materials;
• 500 ml of water.

Cooking algorithm:

1. Verbena is poured with water and then put on fire.
2. After boiling, the broth is removed from the stove and covered with a lid.
3. The cooled drink is filtered and taken in 200 ml per day. This volume must be divided into several steps.

Before preparing the broth, it is advisable to grind the verbena until smooth

Verbena tea

Verbena tea is excellent for the first symptoms of a cold. It is able to reduce fever and eliminate cough. By improving the blood circulation process, the drink prevents the development of thrombophlebitis and varicose veins. When consumed before bedtime, verbena tea can relieve anxiety and make it much easier to fall asleep.

Components:

• 1.5 tsp. dried verbena;
• 250 ml boiling water.

Recipe:

1. Raw materials are poured into a kettle and filled with hot water.
2. The drink is infused for 10-15 minutes.
3. Reception is carried out as needed, without adding sugar or milk.

Verbena tea is effective for respiratory tract infections

The use of verbena in cosmetology

The beneficial properties of verbena are also appreciated in cosmetology. The oil of the plant has become widespread. It has the ability to smooth the complexion and give the skin elasticity. Plus, verbena oil is great for treating breakouts. It removes inflammation under the skin, thereby preventing the formation of new acne. Oil is sometimes used instead of deodorant because of its powerful antiseptic effect.

Massage oils

Verbena massage oil has gained immense popularity. Thanks to its pleasant rich aroma, it has a relaxing effect. The rich composition provides improved skin condition. Massage oil is applied to problem areas with rubbing movements. It provides a sliding effect and improves blood circulation. When combined with citrus oils, it is often used for anti-cellulite massage.

Masks

Verbena oil can also be used to prepare homemade face masks. They are aimed at giving the skin elasticity and smoothing the relief. The antioxidant properties of verbena help protect the skin from negative external factors. A couple of drops of oil are added to any cream, and then the resulting mass is distributed over the skin. After 10-15 minutes, it is washed off with water. After the procedure, the skin becomes soft and refreshed. Verbena essential oil can also be mixed with any base oil. This mixture is kept on the skin for no more than 10 minutes.

Lotions

Verbena tea can be used as a cleansing lotion. Vitamin A in its composition accelerates the process of cell renewal and slows down skin aging. In addition, it has a mild exfoliating effect to help cleanse the skin. The lotion is recommended to be used daily, before going to bed.

Baths

Dried verbena leaves and blossoms can be used while taking a bath. Under the influence of high temperature, essential oils are released from them, which have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the central nervous system. This has a positive effect on well-being and emotional state. Verbena oil baths stimulate blood circulation and improve skin condition. In addition, they have powerful immunomodulatory effects.

Before drying, the leaves must be rinsed with running water

Conditioners

Iron ore essential oil is often used to improve the health of the gums and teeth. It contains substances that accelerate regeneration and relieve inflammation. A few drops of oil are dissolved in 1 tbsp. warm water. The resulting solution is rinsed in the mouth at least 2 times a day. Such manipulations can get rid of bleeding gums and prevent the formation of caries.

Contraindications

The beneficial properties of verbena herb do not exclude the presence of contraindications. In most cases, phytotherapy does not have a harmful effect on the body. But in some situations it is better to refuse to use verbena. Contraindications include:

• thrombocytopenia;
• age under 14;
• decreased acidity of the stomach;
• allergic reaction;
• stomach ulcer;
• pregnancy.

A serious reason for refusing herbal medicine is the development of an allergic reaction. In an unfavorable combination of circumstances, it can lead to impaired respiratory function as a result of mucosal edema. In this case, you need to use an antihistamine and consult a doctor.

Collection and preparation of grass

Verbena blooms in the first year after planting. In most cases, this process occurs in August. Leaves are harvested twice. The first time this happens in June, and the second time in October. In summer, the leaves have a rich aroma and a light green tint. In autumn, the leafy part becomes more intense in color. During this period, the concentration of nutrients in it increases.

The collection of raw materials should be carried out in dry weather, preferably in the morning. After harvesting, the leaves must be dried immediately. If a dryer is used for this purpose, the temperature should be no more than 30 ° C. In the open air, the plant is dried under a canopy, spread out on a flat surface. It is important to protect raw materials from direct sunlight.

Dried iron ore should be stored in a tightly closed glass container or paper bags so that it retains its useful properties in full. It is necessary to protect it from the influence of moisture. The shelf life of the finished raw material is 2 years.

Conclusion

The medicinal properties of verbena officinalis testify to its unique composition. The plant is often used for therapeutic and therapeutic purposes. When used correctly, the herb heals the body and prevents a number of serious diseases.