471-Verbena officinalis Benefits And Uses
Verbena officinalis Benefits And Uses.Explore the benefits and uses of Verbena , from promoting relaxation to supporting immune health.
OVERVIEW
Vervain, scientifically referred to as Verbena officinalis and commonly known as verbena or herb of the cross, is a perennial herb indigenous to Europe and Asia.
This plant is a member of the Verbenaceae family, characterized by its lobed, serrated leaves and delicate pale-purple flowers.
Due to its numerous beneficial compounds, vervain is utilized globally as an herbal remedy. This article explores the advantages, applications, and possible side effects of vervain.
Potential benefits : Verbena officinalis Benefits And Uses
Vervain contains over 20 beneficial plant compounds, including iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which may be responsible for its purported benefits
May possess antitumor effects
Vervain has shown potential antitumor effects in various studies, with test-tube and animal research indicating that its glycosides, triterpenoids, and essential oils may inhibit tumor growth and promote cancer cell death. In a mouse study, high doses of vervain extract led to over a 30% reduction in tumor growth. The anti-tumor activity is primarily attributed to verbenosides A and B, along with triterpenoids. Additionally, citral, a component of vervain essential oil, has demonstrated anticancer properties by inducing programmed cell death.
May protect nerve cells : Verbena officinalis Benefits And Uses
A test-tube study indicated that vervain essential oil could increase the death of rogue immune cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, suggesting its potential in developing new therapeutic agents, although further human research is necessary. Vervain extract may also offer neuroprotective benefits, particularly in conditions related to brain health. Studies in rats have shown that verbenalin, a glycoside found in vervain, can significantly improve recovery from stroke by promoting new blood vessel formation and enhancing mitochondrial function, which is crucial for energy production in brain cells. Furthermore, vervain may protect against neuron loss in Alzheimer’s disease by reducing the toxicity of beta-amyloid peptide, a key factor in the disease’s progression.
May help reduce anxiety and convulsions
Additionally, vervain has been traditionally used as a relaxant, and animal studies support its efficacy in reducing anxiety and managing convulsions. Research in rats demonstrated that vervain extract has an anxiety-reducing effect comparable to diazepam, attributed to its flavonoid and tannin content. Moreover, it may help control seizures in neurological disorders like epilepsy by prolonging the onset. And shortening the duration of convulsions, with verbenin being a significant component in this effect, even showing preference over traditional treatments like bromide.
May have antimicrobial activity
Antibiotic resistance is a growing global concern. Promisingly, studies show that vervain may protect against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi.
In one test-tube study, vervain essential oil was tested against two fungi and seven bacteria. It inhibited the growth of all microorganisms in a dose-dependent manner . And it’s also mean that the higher the dose, the higher the antimicrobial effect
Similarly, another test-tube study demonstrated the antibacterial effect of vervain extract against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli. And Salmonella typhi, which are responsible for multiple infectious diseases .
Compounds in vervain essential oil, such as citral, are known to possess antimicrobial activities. Additionally, other beneficial compounds like flavonoids, which are present in the plant, may add to these effects .
Research suggests that flavonoids may inhibit bacterial attachment to the host and neutralize toxicity against human cells. However, studies in humans are still needed .
Other beneficial effects
Vervain’s extract and essential oils may provide other potential health benefits, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory activity. The topical use of vervain extract seems to have an anti-inflammatory effect on swelling caused by fluid retention .
- Supports gum health. One study in 260 people suggests that a vervain decoction (herbal infusion) may benefit the management of chronic gingivitis or gum inflammation .
- Supports heart health. A study in rats determined that treatment with verbenalin, or cornin, reduced heart tissue death .And damage from inadequate blood supply
- Antidiarrheal activity. One animal study concluded that vervain root extract significantly delayed the volume and frequency of diarrhea, compared with a control.
SummaryVervain is a popular remedy due to its multiple plant-beneficial compounds. Some of its benefits include antitumor effects, nerve cell protection, anxiety- and convulsion-reducing properties, and antimicrobial activity.
Uses : Verbena officinalis Benefits And Uses
Many of vervain’s health benefits are backed by science, but the plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat other ailments without clinical evidence supporting the effects.
For example, in Ethiopia, the leaves are used to treat ear infections, while the root is used to treat tonsils inflammation and ascariasis — a disease caused by the parasite Ascaris lumbricoides that can lead to abdominal pain and diarrhea .
The whole plant is also used to treat abdominal pain and to protect against the evil eye, which is believed to cause misfortune or injury
Vervain is also traditionally used as a galactagogue, a substance that increases milk production in breastfeeding women. However, this is another use not supported by scientific evidence.
You can find vervain in tincture form, as a powder, or ointment. You can also drink it as an herbal infusion, although it’s said to have a bitter taste.
The flowers are also used as a garnish in cocktails and alcoholic beverages.
Summary
Vervain is used in traditional medicine to treat infections and abdominal pain and to promote milk production in breastfeeding women. However, none of those uses are supported by science.
Side effects and precautions
Vervain is classified as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but it may cause side effects in some individuals. Animal studies indicate that vervain extract can negatively impact pregnancy. And lead to poor weight gain and fetal abnormalities, prompting a recommendation for pregnant women to avoid all vervain products. The potential for vervain compounds to enter breast milk remains uncertain, suggesting that nursing mothers should also refrain from its consumption to ensure safety for both themselves and their infants.
Research indicates that vervain tea can significantly inhibit iron absorption, by as much as 59%, which poses a risk for individuals with anemia or iron deficiency. Furthermore, vervain contains vitamin K, which may interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, potentially diminishing their effectiveness. Therefore, consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including vervain, is advisable.
Summary : Verbena officinalis Benefits And Uses
Vervain is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with iron deficiency. And those taking blood thinners should avoid drinking this tea or consuming any vervain-containing products.
The bottom line
Vervain is a widely used herbal remedy known for its potential health benefits, which can be consumed in various forms .Such as tea, tincture, powder, or cream. Scientific research supports several of its health benefits, including antitumor properties, protection of nerve cells, and reduction of anxiety and convulsions.
However, it is important to note that many claims regarding its efficacy, such as enhancing breast milk production .Or treating ear infections, lack scientific validation. While the FDA generally recognizes vervain as safe, certain groups, including pregnant women, individuals with anemia. And those on blood thinners, should avoid its use to prevent adverse effects.
