Betony (Stachys officinalis syn. Stachys betonica)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Common Names: Betony, Wood Betony, Bishop’s Wort
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers)

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Description

Stachys officinalis, commonly known as Betony, is a perennial herb native to Europe and western Asia. It has been revered in traditional Western herbal medicine for its ability to support nervous system health, digestion, and headaches. Betony has also been valued in medieval times as a protective and spiritual herb.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in medieval Europe as a remedy for headaches, nervous disorders, and digestive issues.
• Traditionally employed as a tonic for the nervous system to help with stress, anxiety, and mental clarity.
• Applied externally for wound healing and skin inflammation.
• Used by herbalists to strengthen digestion and relieve bloating.

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Constituents

• Tannins
• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids (stachydrine)
• Iridoids
• Volatile oils

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Actions

• Nervine (Supports nervous system)
• Digestive tonic
• Mild sedative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Circulatory stimulant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Nervous System Support:
Betony is used to calm nervous tension, ease stress, and promote mental clarity.

2. Headache and Migraine Relief:
Traditionally taken for tension headaches and mild migraines.

3. Digestive Health:
Acts as a gentle digestive tonic, reducing bloating and indigestion.

4. Wound Healing and Skin Support:
Applied externally as a poultice or wash for wounds, cuts, and skin irritations.

5. Circulatory and Cardiovascular Benefits:
Used to promote circulation and support healthy blood pressure levels.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves and Flowers):

• 1 tsp of dried herb per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to three times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to three times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to wounds or inflamed skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Low Blood Pressure: Betony may lower blood pressure, so caution is advised for those prone to hypotension.
• Sedative Effects: May enhance the effects of other sedatives; avoid excessive use before driving or operating machinery.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and grounding; supports the nervous system and digestion.
• Traditional European Medicine: Historically considered a protective herb with broad healing applications.
• Ayurveda: Thought to balance Vata and Kapha, while stimulating Pitta in small amounts.

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Combinations

• For Nervous System Support: Combine with skullcap and lemon balm.
• For Headache Relief: Combine with feverfew and peppermint.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with chamomile and fennel.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected in summer when in full bloom.
• Drying: Air dry in a cool, dark, ventilated space.
• Storage: Store dried herb in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Stachys officinalis’s nervine, anti-inflammatory, and digestive tonic properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Betony remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for nervous system balance, digestive health, and headache relief.