Herbs - Betony (Stachys officinalis).

What Is It?

Betony or wood betony is an attractive plant that is native to Europe and grows freely throughout the UK, but is also cultivated in temperate regions of the world. The whole plant can be used in herbal medicine, but the leaves and flower are most often used. Other related species are S. sieboldii (kan lu or Chinese artichoke) and S. atherocalyx (hedge nettle).

Action

This herb contains a variety of compounds including alkaloids, glycosides and volatile oils, but its properties are poorly understood. Historically it is said to be a tonic for the liver and nervous system. In addition it improves circulation to the brain and has digestive bitter effects as well as mild sedative action.

Uses

Historically betony has been used to treat many conditions including:

• Anxiety and stress
• Cystitis
• Diarrhoea
• Gastritis
• Headaches
• Hiatus hernia
• Intestinal parasites
• Indigestion and heartburn
• Lack of energy / chronic fatigue syndrome
• Loss of memory
• Neuralgia
• Nightmares
• Nervous debility
• Respiratory tract infection
• Sciatica
• Shingles
• Sinusitis
• Temporal arteritis
• Varicose veins

Other information

Betony leaves or flowers may be used to make a herbal tea for internal use and can be taken two times per day. If other preparations are desired a qualified herbalist will be able to make these for you.

Cautions

• The safety of betony during pregnancy and lactation has not been sufficiently studied, so it is best avoided unless directed by a physician.



• At the time of writing there are no well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications from using betony.

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