Stachys officinalis

Stachys officinalis
Family:Stachys officinalis; Anthelmintic; Antiseptic; Astringent; Carminative; Cathartic; Cholagogue; Digestive; Diuretic; Emetic; Emmenagogue; Expectorant; Homeopathy; Nervine; Sedative; Sternutatory; Tonic; Vulnerary.
Common name:Wood betony
Wood betony was at one time commonly used as a medicinal plant in the treatment of a wide range of disorders especially as a nervine and tonic for treating maladies of the head and as an external application to wounds. It also stimulates the digestive system and the liver having an overall tonic effect upon the body. Wood betony is much less used nowadays and more often forms part of a mixture of herbs. The whole plant is collected when in flower in the summer and can be dried for later use. It is anthelmintic antiseptic astringent carminative mildly cathartic cholagogue digestive diuretic mildly emetic emmenagogue expectorant nervine sedative sternutatory tonic and vulnerary. It is taken in the treatment of 'frayed nerves' pre-menstrual complaints poor memory and tension. It can be taken in combination with herbs such as comfrey Symphytum officinale and lime flowers Tilia species to treat sinus headaches and congestion. Wood betony can be taken on its own or with yarrow Achillea millefolium to staunch nosebleeds. A pinch of the powdered herb will provoke violent sneezing and it has been used as part of a herbal snuff mixture in the treatment of headaches. A homeopathic remedy is made from the fresh plant. It is used in the treatment of asthma and excessive perspiration.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 06:16 []