|
|
Blue Vervain |
|
Updated: 3/25/98 |
Respiratory Problems
"Simpler's Joy" was also called vervain. Several varieties are known-rose vervain, lemon vervain and Indian hyssop. The abilities of this plant are so many that it may at first be difficult to understand and remember. We'll just summarize the major benefits so you can get to know this favorite of Hypocrites. (you may wish to use it as an alternative to lobelia and boneset for respiratory problems.) This herb is a perennial growing erect from 3-4 feet tall, with opposite branches. The leaves are petiolate, serrate, acuminate and hastate. The flower is small and purplish-blue, sessile and arranged in long spikes. It flowers from June to September. Its square stem gives it away as a member of the mint family. It grows throughout Europe, Asia and America, especially along roads, walls and fences and in dry, grassy fields. It is considered a weed but is sometimes cultivated for herbal use. In ancient times it was a universal remedy. In China it was used for malaria difficulties, dysentery (root), and to act on the blood (stalk/leaves), relieving congestion and toxic materials. Others used it for mad dog bites, stanching blood from wounds, and it's Celtic name ("Ferfaen") meant "to drive away a stone." It was therefore used for urinary and gallbladder problems. Vervain was considered a cure-all and sacred plant, and is mentioned as one of the plants helping to save those of the Medieval plagues. The whole plant is used. It's properties include Antipyretic (against fevers), Dia- phoretic (causing perspiration), Expectorant (clearing mucous congestion), Astringent (to reduce swelling, bind or contract tissue), Antispasmadic (stop muscle spasms, cramps), Nervine strengthen nerves), Relaxant, Tonic, Galactogogue (increases mother's milk), Emmenagogue (promotes menstruation), Analgesic (for pain), Anti-inflammatory. The herb is used for Jaundice, Asthma, Liver congestion, Bronchitis, Mastitis, Cirrhosis, Measles, Colds/Flu, Menstruation (painful), Constipation, Milk (nursing mothers), Convulsions, Nervous disorders, Cramps (intestinal), Pain, Epilepsy, Paralysis, Eyes (tonic), Parasites, Fever, Pneumonia, Headache (nervous), Skin diseases, Hepatitis, Spleen, Inflammation, Tuberculosis, Insanity, Ulcers (mouth, throat), Insomnia, and Whooping cough.
Please send E-mail to: iridology@aol.com if you would like to order the item above or if you have any questions. You can phone or fax your order to 408-248-2671 or 800-704-9800 as well.
|
