Betony
(Stachys officinalis)
wood betony, lousewort, purple betony
Description:
A perennial, with a hairy, unbranched or slightly branched square
stem, 6-24 inches. The pungent, scalloped leaves are opposite
and more or less hairy on both sides. Lower leaves are oblong-cordate.
The upper leaves are more lanceolate. Pale magenta flowers are
in spike-like whorls. Found throughout
the eastern U.S. in gardens, damp or dry meadows, on sunny slopes,
forest paths.
Medicinal:
It is a anthelmintic, astringent, calmative, diuretic, expectorant,
and vulnerary. The flowering herb is helpful for asthma, bronchitis,
heartburn, bladder, kidney problems, spitting blood, excessive
sweating, varicose veins, worms, migraines, anxiety, indigestion,
drunkenness, and difficult labor. It is added to tonics and
herbal cigarettes. The juice of the plant or a poultice is used
externally for cuts, external ulcers and old sores. Steep 1-2
teaspoon in 1 cup water for 5-8 minutes. Slowly drink 1-2 cups
through the day. The roots stimulate the liver, but may cause
vomiting and diarrhea.
