Blue Vervain, a nervine tonic
Blue Vervain in bloom
Commonly called vervain, vervine or verbena across St. Vincent and the Grenadines, this hardy medicine is one that can often be overlooked when it is not in bloom. However once the rains start, the blooms attract a wide range of pollinators with its beguiling purple flowers that bloom in abundance during the wet season.
Touted as one of Dr. Sebi’s—a Honduran herbalist and nutritionist—favourite herbs and plants to work with, it alkalizes the system, calms nerves and anxiety, removes mucus from the lungs and frankly is a general cure-all. This plant is a generous offering from Mother Earth during these especially difficult times and as our bodies deal with various degrees of challenge and nervous system dysregulation.
The leaves have been popularly used to make teas for generations. Along with the properties listed above the Blue Vervain is an antispasmodic or relaxant, which means that it can reduce fevers, treat colds, and functions as a diuretic. The plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities supporting pain reduction and is a brilliant tonic for the nerves.
A nervine tonic/tea made from the leaves of the blue vervain can support better sleep and can bring regulation of the central nervous system. Many of us can use the support of this plant as we deal with the stressors of everyday life. It is also confirmed from a folkloric and local perspective that the tea can be used by mothers who have problems nursing their newborns by helping to boost milk production during lactation.
In the region, particularly in the Lucayan Archipelago (The Bahamas), it is used to treat issues of circulation like high blood pressure, the gastrointestinal tract (worms, constipation), the respiratory system, blisters/boils, chills, and fevers. The tea has been used to treat Gonorrhoea as well as eye and ear sores.
A way in which we are learning to decolonise our landscape and reclaim ownership of our stories and space is by reclaiming the knowledge that these plants have to offer. Our ancestors used these medicines in times of great need and their wisdom continues to permeate today as we bring forward these healing technologies aided by bush medicine.
Blue Vevain in bloom in the mountains of Maloney, St. Vincent.