Plant Profile: Wood Betony

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Wood Betony
(Stachys officinalis)
 

Family: LABIATAE

Energetics: Cooling. Drying.

 Taste: Aromatic. Astringent. Bitter. 
Body Systems Affected: 
  • Bladder
  • Brain
  • Stimulates Digestion
  • Heart
  • Liver
  • Central Nervous System
  • Uterus

Parts Used: Dried aerial (parts exposed to air, above ground)

 Chemical Components: Acids. Alkaloids. Bitters. Glycosides. Tannins.

Preparations: Infusion, Tincture

Actions:

 Foundational: Astringent. Aromatic. Bitter.
Primary: Alterative. Nervine. Stomachic. Sedative. Vulnerary.
Secondary: Tonic. Anti-parasitic.

Medicinal Uses:
  • Anxiety induce headaches
  • Bronchitis
  • Colds/Cough
  • Digestive Issues
  • Anxiety induced headaches
  • Nervousness
  • Minor Aches & pains
  • Clear mind
  • Clear Brain Fog
  • Facial twitching
  • Head Trauma (Increases microcirculation)
  • Slow Digestion with nutrient malabsorption 
  • Bloating, Heartburn, Gas, Worms, Colic. 
  • Diarrhea or Constipation from weakness. 
  • Fear of Vomiting 
Known for it's ability to cure just about any type of anxiety or depression (works particularly well when combined with St. John's Wort). A nerve tonic that works to relieve tension and move energy and blood and alleviate irritability and stress trapped in the body. 

 Combines well with: 
For Migraine or nervous headache: Equal parts feverfew, rosemary & skullcap. 
Anxiety or Depression: St. Johns Wort.

Contraindications: May want to avoid in pregnancy

My Personal Experience with Wood Betony: I really like the taste of Wood betony. I just steeped a sample of 2 teaspoons in 8 ounces just boiling water.  It tastes similar to Chamomile, but lighter. The smell reminds me of rose (though I had just finished brewing a cup of rose for my daughter). 


Resources: 

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