Lemon verbena – perennial shrub, which is widely used in folk medicine. Verbena is common in almost all components, and South America is considered its homeland. The shrub was brought to Europe in the 18th century by the Spaniards. The fragrant plant captivated the Europeans so much that they almost immediately began to use it in the perfume industry. Verbena was very popular in the 20th century, it was used as an ornamental plant, the shrub was planted in all European gardens. The decorativeness and aroma of verbena receded into the background when valuable essential oil began to be obtained from this plant at an industrial level. Today, large-scale verbena plantations are concentrated in Madagascar, the south of France, as well as in North Africa and the USA.
The plant is evergreen shrub with a large crown (see photo). It blooms in small inflorescences of light purple color. The word "verbena" is of Latin origin and means "vine". Verbena received this name due to its characteristic appearance: at the bottom it is lush, but closer to the top you can see twig-like stems that look more like wire than part of the plant. The shrub is also called “lemon Louise” and “bee bush.” The plant received its first name in honor of the Spanish Princess Louise.
People have long considered lemon verbena a magical plant. People believed that the evergreen shrub could protect against the evil eye and damage, as well as curses. Verbena was considered a plant that fulfills all desires. Traditional medicine used the leaves of the plant for many diseases (at one time, verbena was even considered a real panacea).
There are many legends associated with verbena. The Druids revered this evergreen shrub and called it a cure for all diseases. They cooked from the leaves of the plant miracle drinks, the recipes of which were hidden from other people. Collecting verbena turned into a real sacrament: it was prepared on a moonless night exclusively in iron bowls; it was not recommended to touch the collected plant with your hands. The ancient Greeks and Romans also believed in the magical origins of the plant. They dedicated vervain to Mars and Venus. A wreath made of bush stems was a symbol of marriage and protected against conspiracies. Christians called the plant “grass of the cross” because, according to legend, it was watered with the blood of Jesus Christ. In Italy, verbena was considered a witchcraft herb, and the goddess Diana, the ruler of witches, was named its patron.
Collection and storage
Lemon verbena is collected in several stages. The leaves are collected for the first time in June, and the second time during the flowering period of the bush. The aerial part of verbena is used for medicinal purposes. The plant is dried in special dryers.
Store dried raw materials in a cool place in paper bags.
Verbena essential oil is obtained from flowering shoots by steam distillation. Store it in a cool place in a tightly closed container.
Beneficial features
The beneficial properties of lemon verbena are due to the presence in its composition essential oil, which is produced by modern industry as a separate drug. The high cost of this product is explained by the low yield of verbena. The essential oil is a yellow-green liquid with a fresh, sweet aroma. In aromatherapy it is used to treat and normalize digestive processes. Verbena essential oil acts on the nervous system as a tonic. It is indicated to inhale for hysteria, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness.
The medicinal properties of lemon verbena are widely used in homeopathy. The plant contains aldehydes, glycosides, terpene ketones, essential oils, alcohols, and polyphenols. Verbena is used as decoctions and infusions. Such drugs are natural remedy to normalize food processes in the intestines.
The valuable properties of the plant also lie in its calming effect. The plant contains verbenamine, which has an astringent and healing effect. Verbenamine is one of the most valuable components of the essential oil of this shrub.
In cosmetology, verbena is used as a real beauty elixir. Plant extract is added to creams to relieve redness and cure rashes. Verbena copes well with skin problems, boils, boils. Its essential oil is recommended for treating problem skin. Before applying to the skin, a few drops of essential oil are diluted in a carrier oil, since it is a concentrated product and in pure form may cause burns. Regular use of products based on lemon verbena extracts refreshes and evens out the skin of the face, and also has a pronounced rejuvenating property. Verbena oil perfectly eliminates wrinkles and sagging skin. It can often be found in anti-cellulite mixtures. It not only improves skin elasticity, but also deodorizes and eliminates sweating.
Highly purified essential oil can be taken orally to get a beautiful tan in a short time. Verbena oil protects the skin from age spots caused by solar activity, as well as from burns. In addition, it is a known aphrodosiac. The aroma of the oil relieves fatigue, smoothes out the effects of stress, and normalizes the emotional state. Verbena is sometimes called “food for the mind” because its smell improves blood circulation in the brain and is an excellent prevention of atherosclerosis. The tonic properties of the oil are important for creative people, students, researchers.
Verbena has high antiviral activity, so the plant is recommended for use during flu epidemics and colds.
Use in cooking
In cooking, lemon verbena is used as a natural flavoring. Tea with verbena is very popular in Spain. The drink has pleasant taste and aroma. Residents of Spain love to drink chilled tea with verbena and mint. Such the drink perfectly quenches thirst and is very refreshing during the hot season. In North Africa, verbena is often found in herbal teas.
The plant retains almost all of its beneficial features in dried form, which allows the leaves to be stored for a long time. Verbena can be added to various mousses, soufflés, creams, jellies, and puddings. Dried leaves of the plant are often used to prepare desserts. Marinades and sauces will sound new if you add some leaves of this shrub to them.
Thanks to its rich aroma, lemon verbena can be an excellent seasoning for many dishes. Its smell is much fresher and richer compared to other herbs. The plant goes well with strawberries, some types of cheeses, fish products, and poultry. Cooks call the combination of verbena with seafood or meat an interesting culinary solution. For example, pork ham goes well with a sauce seasoned with garlic and verbena.
The plant has the fame of “punch grass”. It is used to flavor alcoholic and soft drinks.
Lemon verbena benefits and treatment
The benefits of the plant are known to folk and official medicine in many countries. Preparations based on verbena are used for low blood pressure, anemia, headaches, hepatitis, liver and spleen diseases. Externally, decoctions of the plant are used for sore throats, stomatitis, and rashes. Rinse with verbena decoction sore throat or oral cavity several times a day until complete recovery.
Lemon verbena is in great demand in folk medicine, healing many diseases.
|
Disease |
Lemon verbena treatment method |
|
Atherosclerosis, thrombosis |
Pour two hundred milliliters of boiling water over one and a half tablespoons of lemon verbena leaves and set aside to steep for about sixty minutes. Take two teaspoons of the infusion every hour. |
|
Indigestion |
At the pharmacy you need to purchase a package of lemon verbena leaves. The leaves of the plant should be brewed with two hundred milliliters of boiling water (one glass will require the entire package) and let stand for about five minutes. Drink twice a day after you eat (for lunch and dinner). The infusion must be drunk until the disease disappears completely. |
|
Diseases of the liver, spleen |
You should prepare the following infusion: pour five glasses of boiling water over about sixty grams of lemon verbena leaves and set aside to infuse for about sixty minutes. During the day you need to drink the entire infusion. |
|
For increased anxiety |
You need to pour two hundred milliliters of boiling water over a collection of herbs from verbena (two parts), St. John's wort (three parts), lemon balm and ground valerian root (one part each), let stand for about sixty minutes, and then strain. It is recommended to take the infusion before meals, two tablespoons three times within twenty-four hours. |
|
Stomatitis, sore throat |
Treatment with lemon verbena is as follows. Steam two teaspoons of ground leaves of the plant with two hundred milliliters of boiling water, let it brew for about sixty minutes, and then strain. You need to take the infusion sixty-five milliliters no more than four times a day, thirty minutes before meals. |
If you doubt the effectiveness of lemon verbena treatment, it is better to consult a doctor for advice..
Lemon verbena harm and contraindications
The plant can cause harm to the body due to individual intolerance. Verbena essential oil is phototoxic, meaning it should not be used before sunbathing. It is contraindicated to use the oil during pregnancy, because... verbena increases uterine tone. Like any other essential oil, it should not be used if allergic reactions occur. If you feel discomfort during aromatherapy, it is better to cancel the procedures.
Growing: planting and care
Lemon verbena is grown by cuttings or from seeds. The seed method is the easiest and does not require special costs and effort. Before planting seedlings in the ground, the seeds must germinate in wooden boxes filled with mineral substrate (peat, sand and turf soil).
To do this, you will first need to put the seeds on a damp cloth for about a couple of hours (this will allow the seeds to germinate quickly), and then plant them directly in boxes, cover with film and put them in a warm room where the temperature will not exceed twenty degrees. The boxes should be ventilated daily and the seeds should be watered as needed.
After twenty days, sprouts will appear. Then the boxes are transferred to a cool room with good lighting and the film is removed. Sprouts are best planted in open ground when it is already warm enough outside. Sprouted seeds must be replanted together with the soil in which they grew, at a distance of no more than three centimeters from each other.
Lemon verbena is not required special conditions glaze. It will be enough to water once every seven days. At the end of July, the interval between waterings should be increased to thirteen days.
As for care, the plant is fertilized only once - during the flowering period of verbena. Also, as necessary, you need to loosen the ground (especially in very hot times), remove weeds, and pick off dried leaves.
Harvesting occurs after the verbena has faded and is covered with pods of dry seeds.
Lemon verbena belongs to perennial plants. It is called the “elixir of beauty” because it effectively fights skin ailments, has a beneficial effect on the spleen and liver, and eliminates excess sweating. Women who have used verbena note its beneficial properties: the skin becomes smooth, clean and toned, wrinkles are smoothed out, sagging, pigmentation and redness go away.
How is it grown?
The plant can be grown on terraces or balconies. The soil is suitable for this: a mixture of earth and sand with rotten leaves. They must be taken in equal quantities. The soil is being refilled mineral fertilizer– 30-40 grams are needed per bucket.
In order for new shoots to form, it is necessary to prune the plant in the spring so that approximately 30 cm remains from the ground. It’s good if open sunlight reaches the verbena. It tolerates heat well, but does not tolerate cold at all - temperatures below 5 degrees below zero can become critical for it.
It is necessary to water when shoots form. Each watering should be plentiful, this is especially important for plants in pots. In cold weather, it is enough to water in cases where the soil is very hard.
Growing and caring for lemon verbena is simple, but you do need to remove the dry parts of the plant. It should be replanted in early spring into a pot whose size is slightly larger than the previous one.
Medicinal properties
In order for the leaves to be beneficial, they must be collected during the flowering time of verbena. Since ancient times, verbena essential oil has been used in the treatment of fever, epilepsy, scrofula, sore throat, bruises and skin diseases.
Research has proven that verbenamine, which is part of the plant, has the following properties:
- astringent;
- scattering;
- healing;
- antifever;
- antipyretic;
- sweatshop;
- anti-inflammatory;
- calming.
Preparations based on verbena are prescribed for bronchitis, tracheitis, rheumatism, pneumonia, headaches, hypotension, and wounds that do not heal for a long time. They are also effective for skin inflammations, microtraumas of the oral mucosa, boils, and eliminate bad smell from mouth.
In order for wounds to heal faster, freshly crushed leaves must be applied to them. If the root of the plant is applied to the damaged area, it cures scrofula, ulcers and abrasions, and abscesses.
Seeds of annual peony and verbena, taken in equal parts, are effective for epilepsy.
Verbena juice will benefit men who have sexual dysfunction or impotence. To normalize breathing, the juice must be diluted with water.
Folk use
For anemia of the optic nerve, an infusion obtained as a result of distillation is useful. The liquid formed during further distillation is used for thrombosis and tuberculosis. Essential oil, which is obtained from lemon verbena, is added to homemade masks and creams.
The leaves have a pleasant lemon aroma, so they are used fresh or dried. Freshly picked and washed leaves are used to decorate cakes and fruit desserts.
If you put 5-6 leaves in a cup of boiling water, you will get an aromatic drink. Tea is used for disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, flatulence, and has a sedative effect. It can be prepared from both fresh and dry leaves.
They need to be dried in a hot, ventilated and dark place.
Indoor verbena is used for poor digestion, heaviness in the stomach, pain and cramps.
External use
For skin ailments, lotions are made from the following mixture: 10 grams of verbena, rose petals, oak bark, horsetail and 5 grams of chamomile and sage leaves. This good remedy should be used to wash out inflammation and make compresses.
This infusion is useful for blockage of veins. Pour boiling water (200 ml) into 3 tablespoons of the herb, leave for an hour and strain. You should take 7 ml every hour.
Who is it contraindicated for?
In order not to cause harm, you need to know not only the beneficial properties, but also contraindications for use.
lemon verbena.
Russia, Voronezh
06.05.2013 11:03
For some reason, this aromatic plant is constantly confused with Verbena officinalis. But they even belong to different botanical genera, although they belong to the same verbena family. We bring to your attention a wonderful article by Elena Malankina, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, dedicated to this interesting and useful plant.
So, lemon verbena. Actually, the confusion arises due to the huge number of names in Latin, with each country preferring its own. The most common is (Kunth), but besides it there are also synonyms: Verbena triphylla l'Herit., Aloysia citriodora Ortega ex Pers, Aloysia triphylla (L"Hér.) Britton, Lippia triphylla (L"Hér.) Kuntze, Verbena triphylla L"Hér., and very rarely Zappania citrodora Lam. The name of the genus Lippia comes from the name of the French botanist Auguste Lippi (1678-1704), who traveled to Africa and was killed by the local population in Ethiopia.Verbena was brought from South America to Europe at the end of the 18th century. The first European botanist to publish a description of this plant was the French Philibert Commerson, when he went with Louis Antoine, Comte de Bougainville, on a trip around the world around 1767. In 1797, professors of the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid Casimir Gómez and Antonio Ortega Palau y Verdera named Aloysia citrodora in Latin and "Hierba de la Princesa" in Spanish in honor of Maria Luisa of Parma, Princess of Asturias, wife of the garden's patron, Infante Carlos de Bourbon. , Prince of Asturias and son of King Carlos III.
It first appeared in England in 1784. This plant was a great success in Victorian England. Numerous fragrances have been created with the presence of lemon verbena. In general, verbena was lucky to be mentioned in literature. In 1854, in his famous poem "Sylvia", Alfred de Musset also mentioned this rarity:
"Also, a little vervain,
Whose scent was felt... "
It was also the favorite scent of Scarlett O'Hara's mother in Gone with the Wind.
IN early XIX centuries, verbena was brought to India, Martinique, Reunion, and also to Italy. It came to Europe as an ornamental plant, but then it began to be grown in the south of France and the French colonies (Algeria, Tunisia, Madagascar) to obtain essential oil. There were attempts to grow it in the subtropical regions of the USSR (Crimea, Caucasus, Central Asia).
In France, for perfumery, liqueur production and herbal medicine, it was cultivated in the immediate vicinity of Grasse, Cannes, Antibes, and Nice. But when growing in Anjou, it already had to be covered in winter.
Its common names in European countries associated either with origin or with aroma (Verveine du Pérou - Peruvian verbena, Verveine citronnelle (French), zitronenverbene, citronenkraut (German) - lemon verbena, Verveine à trois feuilles - three-leaf verbena)
It is a perennial shrub native to America. It grows wild in Peru, Chile, the mountains in northeastern Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, where it grows mainly at an altitude of about 2000 m, rising in some places to 3500 m. The height of the plant in its homeland is from 3.0 up to 5.0 m in height, and in temperate climates - from 0.8 to 2.0 m. This is a plant with straight branches, pale green, elongated (7-10 cm), leaves in whorls of 3-4 pieces. Leaves with a serrated edge and clearly visible essential oil glands on the veins on the underside of the leaf. The taste is pungent, slightly bitter. Inflorescences at the end of the shoot with small white flowers. Seeds are practically not produced in Europe.
The raw materials of this plant can be found in European pharmacies; its essential oil is sometimes used for colognes and perfumes. The leaves contain up to 0.9% essential oil, the main components of which are citral, limonene, geraniol, trans-ocimene, beta-caryophyllene, germacrene D, and some sesquiterpenes. In addition, the leaves contain flavonoids, mainly flavones (slavigénine, eupafoline, hispiduline, etc.).
In the form of dry raw materials and essential oil, verbena is confused with other species that have a lemon aroma, in particular with boldo (Peumus boldus, family Monimiaceae), which also grows in Chile and is used by the local population for liver diseases and helminthiasis, and Moldovan snakehead, which is grown in many European countries, and, finally, with citronella, the essential oil of which is widespread and quite cheap, unlike verbena.
Beneficial properties of lemon verbena
Verbena and its aroma have antipyretic, antispasmodic and mild sedative effects.
Fresh or boiled, verbena leaves can be used as a gargle to soothe toothache or compress on varicose ulcers.
Often 4-5 leaves are added when brewing or collecting tea, especially if the taste of other plants is unpleasant. Sometimes verbena is brewed separately. This tea is recommended at night and is usually drunk with sugar.
For the treatment of indigestion, flatulence, cramps gastrointestinal tract, dyspepsia, neuroses, headaches, minor sleep disturbances, tinnitus, fatigue, brew 5-10 g of leaves in half a liter of boiling water and drink in 4 doses during the day for 3 weeks.
Verbena is also considered a vasculotropic agent, which allows it to be prescribed in preparations for atherosclerosis and as a decongestant for venous diseases ( varicose veins veins, heaviness in the legs, hemorrhoids, etc.).
Sometimes it is used in European herbal medicine as an antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, for neuralgia, as a disinfectant and tonic.
In moderate amounts, verbena extract has antioxidant effects that have been tested in actively training athletes. Verbascoside, which has shown high free radical scavenging capacity and may have interesting applications in the development of cosmetics, nutritional supplements or functional foods, was found to be responsible for this effect. In addition, verbena extract is active against the causative agent of thrush Candida Albicans.
However, like any plant, in excessive doses it can cause irritation in the stomach.
In aromatherapy, essential oil is used in treatment nervous system and digestive problems, as well as externally for the treatment of acne and ulcers. Although there are disagreements among aromatherapists regarding the external use of verbena essential oil. Many people believe that it causes allergic skin reactions.
In the European Union, the use of distilled (obtained by steam distillation) essential oil of verbena and its products in perfumery has been prohibited since 2009, but verbena absolute can be used in perfumery.
In France, more than 500 tons of dried leaves are consumed, primarily for flavoring products, in particular tea. The quality of raw materials is assessed by the intensity of the aroma and the rich green color of the leaves.
The leaves are sometimes used in small quantities in cooking to make sorbet, ice cream or baked goods. Some chefs recommend verbena leaves for cooking white meat or fish, especially steamed ones, especially in Eastern recipes that originally used basil, lemongrass or ginger.
In South America it is used in the production of sweet dishes, liqueurs and as a sedative, as well as to enhance the taste of lemonade. In addition, people have long known about the ability of the scent of verbena to drive away aphids and fight mites.
Her lot is the window sill
In our conditions, lemon verbena can only grow as a potted crop, which is taken outside for a walk in the summer. Verbena requires neutral soils that are fertile and well-drained. It should be placed on a sunny windowsill, and in the summer - in sunny place.
Seeds are sown in the ground and placed in a warm place so that seedlings appear faster. If you have a plant, you can propagate verbena by cuttings. They are sensitive to frost and can only withstand a few hours at temperatures around -5 o C.
It is better to apply fertilizers once every 10-20 days or a little less often, simultaneously with watering. In the first half of summer, nitrogen and potassium are added for intensive growth of fragrant shoots, and in the second half of summer they are limited to potassium.
The plant, on the one hand, requires sufficient moisture for intensive growth of shoots, since during periods of drought it begins to lose leaves, but on the other hand, when overmoistened, verbena is susceptible to fungal diseases.
Shoots can and should be cut several times a season. Store them dried or frozen for later use in the kitchen. The raw materials retain the aroma quite well.
Lemon verbena has a fresh aroma reminiscent of lemon. Its raw leaves are used in salads or to season sweet dishes. In addition, lemon verbena is used to make drinks. Lemon verbena tea has a general calming, appetite stimulating and digestive stimulating effect.
From Wikipedia: "Aloysia trifolia, or Lemon verbena(lat. Aloýsia citrodóra) is a plant, a species of the genus Aloysia of the Verbenaceae family, growing in Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay, Chile and Peru. It was brought to Europe by the Spaniards in the 17th century."
"The plant contains essential oil, the main components of which are: citral (30-35%), nerol and geraniol."
Use in cooking and Food Industry:
“Due to its lemony scent, the plant is used as a seasoning for sweet dishes and as a component of herbal teas. In addition, it exhibits activity against the pathogenic fungi Candida albicans.
Verbena oil is used in the perfume and food industries. The oil contains up to 30% citral, about 1% geraniol, methylheptenone and sesquiterpenes. The oil is obtained by steam distillation of leaves and young branches with a yield of 0.3-0.7% (depending on the ratio of leaves and stems in the raw material). The oil has a pleasant lemon scent and is usually brown in color.
Aloysia trifoliata is often cultivated in cold greenhouses under the name “punch plant” (German: Punschpflanze); sometimes it is used to flavor tea. In southern Spain it is common as a garden plant."
Seasoning dishes:"Gourmets enjoy using lemon verbena in cooking. Its leaves are added to salads, pork and mushroom dishes, and to enhance the taste of sweet dishes such as fruit salads, puddings and in making ice cream. In addition, finely chopped leaves can be used in sugar frosting for lemon pies."*
Seasoning of drinks:"Lemon verbena is often used in making drinks. If you put freshly picked lemon verbena leaves in a bowl for half an hour, hot water, you will get a pleasant refreshing tea. This stimulating and calming tea with a lemon aroma is very popular in France and is known there as “Verveine”. This name is also popular in Switzerland."*
Application in medicine:
“Since lemon verbena stimulates the appetite and stimulates digestion, it helps with indigestion and constipation. In addition, it has a slight calming effect on nervousness, insomnia, and has some other properties that help with colds.
- Verbenamine;
- Carotene;
- Vitamin C;
- Silicic acid;
- Tannin;
- Bitterness;
- Flavonoids;
- Steroids;
- Slime;
- Glycosides;
- Essential oil.
Carotene, which is part of verbena officinalis, breaks down in the body to form vitamin A, which normalizes the functioning of the immune system. It takes part in restoration and oxidative processes, regulates metabolism and protein synthesis, and also participates in the formation of teeth and bones.
Verbena medicinal properties and contraindications
Vitamin A slows down the aging process of the body.
Beneficial features
- Improves microcirculation;
- Reduces cholesterol levels.
Indications for use
- Bronchitis;
- Laryngitis;
- Hepatitis;
- Tracheitis;
- Pneumonia;
- Cholecystitis;
- Cholelithiasis;
- Hypotension;
- Headache and toothache.
- Thrombosis;
- Thrombophlebitis;
- Ischemic disease;
- Phlebeurysm;
- Gout;
- Atherosclerosis;
- Rheumatism;
- Angina;
Contraindications
Verbena capsules clean vessels
In traditional medicine, the flowers and herbs of this plant are used as the main component of the drug “Verbena pure vessels”. This herbal medicine is made on the basis of chokeberry, black currant leaves, dandelion roots, verbena and gotu kola herbs, calendula flowers, clover and is included in the group of dietary supplements. Verbena clean blood vessels increases the body's immunity, strengthens it and helps in the treatment of vascular pathologies. This product is available in the form of drops and capsules for oral administration. For adults, dilute 20 drops of the product in 100 ml of water and take with meals three times a day. Verbena clean blood vessels improves blood microcirculation, reduces its viscosity, lowers cholesterol levels and cleanses blood vessels from cholesterol plaques, restores the functions of damaged blood vessels and normalizes metabolic processes in them.
Medicinal properties of verbena
Verbena herb is used as a general strengthening, metabolism-normalizing and tonic. It contains flavonoids and glycosides that are beneficial for humans. Verbena lowers body temperature, increases the secretion of sweat and bile, relieves muscle spasms and has antibacterial properties. Externally, in the form of lotions, verbena is used for eczema, ulcers, scabies, acne, and various rashes. A decoction of this plant is used for bad breath and gum inflammation. For nervous disorders and tension, mental problems, insomnia, depression, loss of strength, you can use verbena preparations - they will help fight many ailments. For women, verbena will help with genitourinary problems, eliminate vaginal itching, and reduce PMS symptoms. This herb also has astringent property, therefore it can be used for diarrhea, digestive disorders, lack of appetite, it helps with anemia and allergies.
Verbena essential oil
Since ancient times, verbena has been a symbol of luck and prosperity. Inhaling its aroma, it will be easy for you to concentrate and react correctly to changes in the outside world. Verbena oil improves blood flow, renews cells faster, eases vegetative-vascular dystonia, removes toxic substances from the body, helps lose weight and is a powerful aphrodisiac. The oil is widely used in cosmetology: it eliminates fine wrinkles, has a lifting effect, makes the complexion even, and suppresses pathogenic bacteria. Verbena perfectly helps with baldness and dandruff, helps strengthen and rapid growth hair. If you treat scars and stretch marks with verbena oil, they will quickly resolve. Massage with this oil and you will get rid of cellulite and tighten sagging skin. By fumigating a room with verbena oil, you will get rid of unpleasant odors and fungus in your home. Verbena oil should not be used during pregnancy, as it increases the tone of the uterus and miscarriage may occur in children under three years of age.
Information content of the site: Dmitry N.
Verbena: original instructions for use
Name:
Verbena
Pharmacological
action:
Herbal medicine with complex action. Strengthens and cleanses arterial and venous vessels, restores damaged capillaries, reduces cholesterol in the blood. under the action of the drug, microcirculation of blood in tissues improves, impaired blood circulation is restored, and metabolic processes at the cellular level are normalized.
After oral administration, the drug is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The action of Verbena lasts for one day. With long-term use, the drug does not cause addiction.
Indications for
application:
Verbena is indicated for use as a remedy increases immunity and has a general strengthening effect on the body. The drug is used in complex treatment vascular pathology, in the presence of chronic vascular and mild chronic heart failure, cardioneurosis, neurocirculatory dystonia, arterial hypotension.
Mode of application:
The drug is used inside, during meals. The recommended dose for adults is 20 drops of the drug in half a glass of water three times a day. The bottle with the drug must be shaken before use.
Side effects:
When taking Verbena orally, it is possible side effects from the gastrointestinal tract in the form of dyspeptic symptoms - nausea, flatulence, stool disorders.
Contraindications:
The use of Verbena is contraindicated in individual intolerance various components contained in the drug. Due to possible inflammation of the mucous membrane of various parts of the digestive tract, the use of the drug is contraindicated in the presence of gastric ulcer or duodenum, acute and chronic gastritis, acute and chronic enterocolitis in the acute stage.
Interaction
other medicinal
by other means:
No data about the peculiarities of interaction of Verbena with other drugs.
Pregnancy:
Due to lack of data about the peculiarities of the drug’s effect on the fetus, taking Verbena during pregnancy and lactation contraindicated. If it is necessary to use the drug, consult a doctor.
Overdose:
Data on drug overdose none.
Release form:
The drug Verbena is available in the form of drops in bottles of 25, 50 m and 100 ml.
Storage conditions:
Store in a dry place, protected from light, out of reach of children, at a temperature of no more than 25 degrees Celsius.
Shelf life the drug does not exceed 2 years.
Drops for oral administration 1 fl.
— verbena officinalis (herb) 2.5 g
— chokeberry (fruit) 2.5 g
— red clover (flowers) 1.0 g
– black currant (leaves) 1.0 g
— ginkgo biloba (leaves) 0.8 g
— gotu kola (herb) 0.3 g
— calendula officinalis (flowers) 0.3 g
— dandelion officinalis (root) 0.3 g
Excipients: aspasvit, citric acid, sodium benzoate, water, ethyl alcohol 1.5%.
in bottles of 25, 50 or 100 ml.
Verbena reviews:
I have been using verbena for a long time and mainly as a tonic. As for me, everything is fine. I noticed, although not immediately, but it’s still noticeable that my hair is growing much faster. And nails in general! In a week they grew so much like they have never grown before.
Lemon verbena - cultivation, collection and storage
Verbena is very effective in preventing brain diseases! You can take this herbal medicine in courses after 40 years. It will improve blood flow to the brain and, accordingly, memory. It is enough to drop 20 drops into a spoon of water for 2-3 weeks and take it twice a day.
my mother takes these drops 30 drops 2 times a day with meals. She has diabetes, and the doctor said that in the spring it is necessary to clean the blood vessels, since she also suffers from high blood pressure. There is no fear, since the drug is natural and my health has improved
Verbena – medicinal plant, which has vasodilating, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic and antiseptic effects.
Chemical composition
The beneficial properties of verbena officinalis are due to the effects of the substances that make up its composition. The plant contains the following components:
- Verbenamine;
- Carotene;
- Vitamin C;
- Silicic acid;
- Tannin;
- Bitterness;
- Flavonoids;
- Steroids;
- Slime;
- Glycosides;
- Essential oil.
Verbenamine has anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antipyretic, antispasmodic and wound-healing effects.
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and has antitoxic, wound-healing and liver cell regenerating effects. Ascorbic acid is able to neutralize harmful compounds that lead to the formation of malignant tumors of the gastrointestinal tract.
Silicic acid removes toxins from the body unchanged and restores damaged areas of the mucous membrane. The wound healing and antiseptic properties of verbena are also partly due to the presence of silicic acid in its composition.
Tannin is a tannin that modifies cell proteins and forms protective film, thereby exerting a bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect on microorganisms. Tannin has an astringent effect.
Bitterness has a juice-like effect, which increases appetite and normalizes digestive processes. They are also endowed with restorative and restorative properties.
Flavonoids neutralize free radicals and some toxic substances.
Verbena – benefits and beneficial properties of verbena
They strengthen capillaries and increase their elasticity, which prevents their sclerotic damage.
Steroids, and more specifically sitosterol, protect blood vessels from the formation of plaques and deposits. In addition, sitosterol significantly reduces the risk of prostate enlargement.
The expectorant and enveloping properties of verbena officinalis are largely due to the mucus that is part of the plant. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Glycosides provide a sedative, diuretic, antimicrobial, expectorant, vasodilator and disinfectant effect.
Essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal and stimulating effects.
Beneficial features
Verbena is used to reduce temperature during fever, relieve muscle spasms, and increase the secretion of sweat and bile.
When using medicines from the plant, the healing process of skin lesions is accelerated. They treat gum inflammation and eliminate bad breath.
The medicinal plant is also used for the treatment of various neurological and mental conditions, including stress, nervous disorders, severe emotional experiences and tension, increased fatigue, depression, insomnia and loss of energy.
One of the main beneficial properties of verbena is considered to be anti-atherosclerotic. It is due to the fact that the plant has the following actions:
- Strengthens the walls of veins and arteries;
- Improves microcirculation;
- Normalizes vascular tone and increases their elasticity;
- Restores damaged capillaries;
- Reduces cholesterol levels.
The use of verbena helps eliminate many female pathologies, including symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, menopause, disorders menstrual cycle and work genitourinary system. The plant is also recommended for men to normalize sexual function.
Indications for use
The use of verbena is effective in the presence of the following diseases:
- Bronchitis;
- Laryngitis;
- Hepatitis;
- Tracheitis;
- Pneumonia;
- Cholecystitis;
- Gastritis, accompanied by low gastric juice;
- Cholelithiasis;
- Hypotension;
- Headache and toothache.
Since verbena cleanses blood vessels from cholesterol plaques and improves blood circulation, the plant is indicated for the following pathologies:
- Thrombosis;
- Thrombophlebitis;
- Ischemic disease;
- Phlebeurysm;
- Gout;
- Atherosclerosis;
- Rheumatism;
- Angina;
- Peripheral circulation disorders.
External use of verbena is indicated for various skin diseases, eczema, ulcers, scabies, furunculosis, rashes and difficult-to-heal wounds.
Contraindications
The use of verbena is also contraindicated for hypertension.
Homemade Verbena Remedies
To prevent atherosclerosis and thrombosis, it is recommended to take 1 tablespoon of infusion from the herb verbena every hour. To prepare it, pour 2 tablespoons of the herb into 250 ml of boiling water, leave for 1 hour and filter.
For various mental and nervous disorders, as well as for the treatment of migraines, tea from the herb of the plant is used. 2 teaspoons of the herb should be poured into 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes and strain. The product should be drunk 1 glass 2 times a day. It is also effective for normalizing the menstrual cycle and getting rid of menstrual pain.
For stomatitis, sore throat, neurodermatitis and eczema, pour 1 tablespoon of verbena herb into 1 glass of boiling water, leave for an hour and filter. To rinse the mucous membranes, use a third of a glass up to 4 times a day, half an hour before meals. The infusion can also be used for lotions in the treatment of other skin diseases.
Verbena is a medicinal plant that has vasodilating, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic and antiseptic effects.
Chemical composition
The beneficial properties of verbena officinalis are due to the effects of the substances that make up its composition. The plant contains the following components:
- Verbenamine;
- Carotene;
- Vitamin C;
- Silicic acid;
- Tannin;
- Bitterness;
- Flavonoids;
- Steroids;
- Slime;
- Glycosides;
- Essential oil.
Verbenamine has anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antipyretic, antispasmodic and wound-healing effects.
Carotene, which is part of verbena officinalis, breaks down in the body to form vitamin A, which normalizes the functioning of the immune system. It takes part in restoration and oxidative processes, regulates metabolism and protein synthesis, and also participates in the formation of teeth and bones. Vitamin A slows down the aging process of the body.
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and has antitoxic, wound-healing and liver cell regenerating effects. Ascorbic acid is able to neutralize harmful compounds that lead to the formation of malignant tumors of the gastrointestinal tract.
Silicic acid removes toxins from the body unchanged and restores damaged areas of the mucous membrane. The wound healing and antiseptic properties of verbena are also partly due to the presence of silicic acid in its composition.
Tannin is a tannin that modifies cell proteins and forms a protective film, thereby exerting a bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect on microorganisms. Tannin has an astringent effect.
Bitterness has a juice-like effect, which increases appetite and normalizes digestive processes. They are also endowed with restorative and restorative properties.
Flavonoids neutralize free radicals and some toxic substances. They strengthen capillaries and increase their elasticity, which prevents their sclerotic damage.
Steroids, and more specifically sitosterol, protect blood vessels from the formation of plaques and deposits. In addition, sitosterol significantly reduces the risk of prostate enlargement.
The expectorant and enveloping properties of verbena officinalis are largely due to the mucus that is part of the plant. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Glycosides provide a sedative, diuretic, antimicrobial, expectorant, vasodilator and disinfectant effect.
Essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal and stimulating effects.
Beneficial features
Verbena is used to reduce temperature during fever, relieve muscle spasms, and increase the secretion of sweat and bile.
When using medicines from the plant, the healing process of skin lesions is accelerated.
11 beneficial properties of verbena for our body and contraindications for use
They treat gum inflammation and eliminate bad breath.
The medicinal plant is also used for the treatment of various neurological and mental conditions, including stress, nervous disorders, strong emotional experiences and tension, increased fatigue, depression, insomnia and loss of strength.
One of the main beneficial properties of verbena is considered to be anti-atherosclerotic. It is due to the fact that the plant has the following actions:
- Strengthens the walls of veins and arteries;
- Improves microcirculation;
- Normalizes vascular tone and increases their elasticity;
- Restores damaged capillaries;
- Reduces cholesterol levels.
The use of verbena helps eliminate many female pathologies, including symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, menopause, menstrual irregularities and the genitourinary system. The plant is also recommended for men to normalize sexual function.
Indications for use
The use of verbena is effective in the presence of the following diseases:
- Bronchitis;
- Laryngitis;
- Hepatitis;
- Tracheitis;
- Pneumonia;
- Cholecystitis;
- Gastritis, accompanied by low gastric juice;
- Cholelithiasis;
- Hypotension;
- Headache and toothache.
Since verbena cleanses blood vessels from cholesterol plaques and improves blood circulation, the plant is indicated for the following pathologies:
- Thrombosis;
- Thrombophlebitis;
- Ischemic disease;
- Phlebeurysm;
- Gout;
- Atherosclerosis;
- Rheumatism;
- Angina;
- Peripheral circulation disorders.
External use of verbena is indicated for various skin diseases, eczema, ulcers, scabies, furunculosis, rashes and difficult-to-heal wounds.
Contraindications
The use of verbena is also contraindicated for hypertension.
Homemade Verbena Remedies
To prevent atherosclerosis and thrombosis, it is recommended to take 1 tablespoon of infusion from the herb verbena every hour. To prepare it, pour 2 tablespoons of the herb into 250 ml of boiling water, leave for 1 hour and filter.
For various mental and nervous disorders, as well as for the treatment of migraines, tea from the herb of the plant is used. 2 teaspoons of the herb should be poured into 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes and strain. The product should be drunk 1 glass 2 times a day. It is also effective for normalizing the menstrual cycle and getting rid of menstrual pain.
For stomatitis, sore throat, neurodermatitis and eczema, pour 1 tablespoon of verbena herb into 1 glass of boiling water, leave for an hour and filter. To rinse the mucous membranes, use a third of a glass up to 4 times a day, half an hour before meals. The infusion can also be used for lotions in the treatment of other skin diseases.
Verbena officinalis
Even today, many residents of Scandinavia protect the places where verbena officinalis grows like the apple of their eye. For many European peoples, the herb has become a real panacea; almost all known diseases are treated with tea from its inflorescences. But if verbena officinalis is common in England and Germany, in colder climates the plant is a rare visitor.
The main areas of application of verbena officinalis
Today, there are about 300 species of verbena, but only the verbena herb is used for medicinal purposes. The entire above-ground part of the plant is used, but verbena root is used much less frequently. This part of the flower has pronounced astringent and tanning properties, which can cause constipation and even poisoning. The leaves, stem and flowers of verbena have a unique composition:
- essential oil;
- vitamin C;
- mucus;
- bitterness;
- water-soluble silicic acid;
- verbenine;
- plant steroids;
- flavonoids;
- complex of microelements.
The listed components make it possible to use the verbena officinalis plant for the treatment of various diseases in the following areas:
- diseases of the genitourinary system;
- heart and vascular diseases;
- various sleep disorders and mental disorders;
- dermatological diseases;
- wounds, burns, frostbite;
- ARVI and influenza;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and gall bladder.
Medicinal properties of verbena
Due to the fact that the plant has a pronounced regenerative effect, it is actively used to restore integrity skin, mucous membranes and internal epithelium of some organs.
Also, verbena tea, when consumed regularly, strengthens the walls of blood vessels and dissolves cholesterol plaques, due to which angina pectoris, sciatica and other heart diseases recede.
Preparations made from verbena are very useful for diabetics, as it is an excellent remedy for normalizing blood sugar levels and preventing congestion in the veins - one of the most common complications of diabetes.
Lotions, compresses and masks made from verbena decoction produce a strong anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effect, while flavonoids accelerate metabolic processes in the skin and improve blood circulation in problem areas. In this regard, the plant is used to treat the following skin diseases:
- psoriasis;
- eczema;
- dermatitis of various origins;
- acne;
- hives;
- scabies.
In India, vervain is still taken as a contraceptive. The fact is that the plant stimulates contractions of the uterus, resulting in termination of pregnancy at early stages. In the civilized world, of course, this has not been the case for a long time, but these properties of the plant are well known. They are the reason for the main contraindication to the use of verbena officinalis.
Verbena officinalis
Preparations based on it should absolutely not be taken by pregnant women. In addition, individual intolerance, that is, allergies, is a contraindication. Verbena-based medications are prescribed with caution to hypertensive patients, 
since the grass tends to greatly increase blood pressure levels.
The unique composition allows you to treat various feverish conditions with verbena tea. They may be of viral or infectious origin, or they may be a manifestation of a common cold. Verbena reduces temperature and has a general strengthening effect on the body. In addition, the plant improves sputum elimination in case of bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. When using the herb to treat children, the dosage must be strictly observed so as not to cause poisoning - verbena is a strong remedy.
Perennial plant of the verbena family, up to 80 cm high. The stem is tetrahedral, erect. The leaves are oblong, located on short petioles. The flowers are pale purple, divided into 5 petals, numerous, collected in a panicle. Medicinal verbena blooms from May to October.
The medicinal raw material of verbena is the entire above-ground part of the plant with flowers. The grass is collected during the flowering period. Dry in a dryer at a temperature of 50-60 °C.
Where does verbena grow?
Verbena officinalis grows throughout Russia: in clearings, along roadsides and in fields along crops.
There are many other types of verbena that came from North and South America. They are used as ornamental plants and do not have the benefits of medicinal verbena.
According to the literature, the entire verbena plant is considered poisonous. This is not emphasized among the people.
Collection of verbena plants.
Verbena leaves are collected during flowering.
Medicinal properties of the verbena plant.
In the Middle Ages, verbena served as a real panacea: it was used to treat epilepsy, fever, sore throat, scrofula, skin diseases, leprosy, bruises; it also protected against any infection, which made it a truly precious remedy during epidemics, so frequent in those days. In the last century, much less interest has been shown in the numerous medicinal properties of verbena, although laboratory tests and clinical studies have shown that, thanks to one of the glycosides - verbenamine - it is an astringent, healing, dispersive, absorbable and to a certain extent antifever, antipyretic agent. It has diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, soothing properties.
Verbena preparations are prescribed orally for acute bronchitis, tracheitis, rheumatism, toothache and headache, pneumonia, hypotension, and are used externally for difficult-to-heal wounds, inflammation of the skin, oral mucosa, rashes, boils, and to remove bad breath.
Useful properties of verbena officinalis.
When crushed and cooked in wine, verbena helps against snake bites. In a plaster it cures pain. To treat headaches, according to Russian healers, it is necessary to plant verbena in the spring in virgin soil, to which the patient’s hair is mixed, and water it with water after washing the hair. When the verbena grows, it should be burned and the powder taken orally on the tip of a knife as needed.
To heal wounds, it is necessary to apply freshly crushed verbena leaves to them.
Verbena root cures scrofula, ulcers and abrasions, and applied to the neck in the form of a plaster heals scrofula, mumps and abscesses. They say that if children carry verbena root on themselves, they will study well.
Verbena seeds mixed with annual peony seeds heal epilepsy. Verbena juice is very useful for men suffering from impotence; it is also useful for them to carry this root on themselves. Drinking verbena juice with honey and warm water improves breathing. For rabies (phobia of water), you should drink verbena stems boiled in wine.
Folk uses of the verbena officinalis plant.
An infusion of the plant, prepared by distillation, is useful for anemia of the optic nerve; further distillation produces a liquid used for tuberculosis and thrombosis.
Verbena was a sacred herb among the Gauls, Persians, Ancient Greece and Rome, they gave it loud names - “Tears of Isis”, “Blood of Mercury” or “Grass of Hercules”.
In Latin, the name of the plant meant "sacred branch" and came to be used to name all the branches with which priests were crowned during sacrifices, regardless of whether they were laurel, myrtle, verbena or olive branches.
Description of the lemon verbena plant.
Lemon verbena has a completely different appearance. It is a small bush, reaching from 1 to 1.5 m in height, whose long and thin branches bear oblong, narrow and sharp leaves, spreading a pleasant lemon aroma. From July to September, lemon verbena will produce weak spikes with small white flowers at the top and pink flowers at the top. inside. Native to Chile, this species requires a hot climate and can only be cultivated in non-greenhouse conditions in the south of France. Its leaves are collected twice: the first time in June, before flowering - these leaves have an ash-green color and have an exquisite aroma, this is the most popular collection; the second collection is collected in October, its leaves dark green and are richer in essential oil, but have a less subtle odor.
Useful and medicinal properties of the lemon verbena plant.
Lemon verbena is very widely used in perfumery, but also in the form of tinctures due to its beneficial effect on the stomach. It effectively combats heaviness in the stomach and cramps caused by poor digestion. Moreover, its refined and refreshing taste allows it to serve as the basis for the preparation of very valuable liqueurs. At the same time, lemon verbena should not be abused even in the form of tinctures, since with prolonged use it can irritate the intestinal mucosa.
The use of verbena officinalis in folk medicine.
Verbena is primarily used by people for diseases of the liver, spleen, as well as for “blood diseases”, expressed in the appearance of boils, pimples, rashes, and, in addition, for scrofula and venereal ulcers.
Verbena officinalis: description, collection and storage, properties, use and contraindications
In these cases, drink a steam of 60.0 g per 1 liter per day. boiling water
Verbena tea.
12.0-15.0 g per 180.0-200.0 g of boiling water, take 1 tablespoon every hour for arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, vein swelling.
External use of napara with verbena for skin diseases.
In the form of lotions for skin diseases, use a steam of the following mixture: verbena - 10.0 g, womashka - 5.0 g, rose petals - 10.0 g, oak bark - 10.0 g, sage leaves - 5 .0 g and horsetail herb - 10.0 g - As a means of reducing the inflammatory reaction and promoting wound healing.
In ancient times it was attributed to her magical properties, supposedly protecting against the evil eye, damage and curses. It was believed that it cures all diseases. Nowadays verbena is rarely used, since there are more effective means for the treatment of the liver, spleen, anemia, general weakness, although one should not forget that tea from verbena leaves helps well with atherosclerosis and especially with swelling of veins, blockage of veins, thrombosis.
Infusion of verbena plant for thrombosis and atherosclerosis.
Pour 2-3 teaspoons of verbena herb with a glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, strain. Take 1 tablespoon every hour. The same infusion helps with blocked veins.
Verbena contraindications.
A contraindication to verbena is hypertension. It is not recommended if there is a low platelet count in the blood.
Storing verbena plants.
Verbena leaves are stored in boxes lined with paper.
