European Vervain Seed Pack

Do not be misled by vervain’s diminutive appearance, this is a powerful herb with a rich history of therapeutic (and magical) use. 

Of all our native herbs in the UK, this is surely the most mysterious. It is a small and rather spindly plant that can look a little ‘weedy’, yet it has for millenia been associated with supernatural forces and divine power; it was one of the Druid’s most sacred herbs and revered across Europe. Also known by names such as ‘holy herb’, ‘wizard’s herb’ and ‘enchanter’s plant’, there is something special about this little gem. 

Vervain is thought to have have been introduced from Southern Europe in Neolithic times, but having been here for so long it is generally considered native. It is often found in rough grassland, waste ground and roadside verges, which points to its preference – or perhaps tolerance – for low nutrient, well-drained soils and full sunshine. 

Being so slender, a single plant can get lost when mixed with other plants, so we recommend growing a decent sized clump of at least 10-20 plants to give it the space and attention it deserves. 

Sowing and Growing 

Either sow outdoors in very early spring, or mix them into a small amount of damp sand, seal in a bag and leave them in a fridge for 2 weeks before sowing in late spring. Sow on the surface and gently press into the soil keeping the surface damp. 

Uses and Benefits 

Do not be misled by the diminutive stature of vervain; this is a powerful plant with a big personality. Vervain has a bitter and astringent flavour that can cool a hot head and a hot liver. It is used as an anxiolytic nervine for acute and chronic stress leading to spasms, cramps and tension making it useful for headaches, digestive stagnation, nervous tics and muscle spasms. As it helps smooth the flow of the emotions it can dissipate irritability and digest indigestible experiences, helping mild depression. Its especially relevant for symptoms of menstrual anxiety and cramps and menopausal heat and anxiety, and whilst its not to be used in pregnancy it has been used as a galactagogue, to help the flow of breast milk. This favourite of post-prandial ease is also used in Chinese Herbal Medicine where it is known as Ma bian cao or the Horse Whip Herb TCM where its primary feature is used to ‘Invigorate the Blood’ helpoing with menstrual discomfort. It slender stature does not belie its strength, and has similar uses to its taller American relative, Verbena hastata. 

It contains iridoid glycosides called verbenalin and clinical research has shown protective effects on the liver as well as overall anti-inflammatory benefits. 

It goes well with motherwort, skullcap and lemon balm for anxiety and with tonics like ashwagandha and milky oat seed for nervous exhaustion. 

Harvesting and Preparation

Harvest the aerial parts just as it comes into flower, avoiding any discoloured lower leaves. Then immediately cut into smaller pieces and dry by laying out on an open rack or, even easier, tie the stems into bunches and hang upside down to dry. 

As a tea, use 1-2 teaspoons (1.5-3g) in a cup of boiled water steeped for 15 minutes a couple of times a day. 

To make a tincture, infuse 1 part herb to 5 parts with the alcohol @ 40%. 

Minimum 50 seeds per pack.