Characteristics of Betony
Betony is known in Latin as Stachys Officinalis and belongs to the family Lamiaceae. A striking, herbaceous plant that thrives in grasslands and meadows, it’s easily identifiable by its whimsical leaves and radiant stalk of purple flowers which shoot up jubilantly toward the sky. The plant can be found covered in pollinating insects on the edge of clearings in fluffy stands of multiple individuals, giving a cozy feeling that seems to suggest “sit down a while and relax, this is a nice little spot." Betony is also a popular ornamental in gardens because of its beautiful, cheerful appearance. In herbalism its aerial parts, or leaves and flowers, are used for medicine. Native to Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa, it also grows prolifically in eastern North America. In this guide when we refer to betony we are specifically talking about Stachys Officinalis, not members of the Pedicularis genus which are also called betony and share some traits.
Traditional Uses of Betony
Traditional uses of betony throughout Europe are well documented from Roman times through the middle ages and into the 19th century. Wood betony was revered across kingdoms for millennia as an aid for over 40 ailments. The sweet looking herb was even called “holy” and worn around the neck or placed in pillows to ward off nightmares and evil spirits. Incredibly, documentation exists of Stachys being called on to protect holy places from evil. These supernatural beliefs about Betony speak to the very real healing and protective power that people had experienced from working with the plant in their own bodies.
Less fanciful uses abound in history, including many preparations to correct issues with the digestive system, liver, kidneys, spleen, and urinary tract. Headaches and trauma to the head are a frequent mention, as well as uterine pain, menstrual problems, and reproductive health. Musculoskeletal concerns like spasms and cramps come up regularly along with arthritis, joint problems, and support for the respiratory system. Of particular interest to us are the abundant references to all manner of nervous system and neurological applications including fatigue, forgetfulness, anxiety, premenstrual syndrome, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, and epilepsy.
Benefits of Betony for Modern Life
The nervine (nerve supporting) effects of wood betony are at the forefront of its appeal to nearly any modern human. Life today is burdened by information overload, hyperproductivity culture, and endless anxieties. These influences combine with being very in our screens and in our heads, leading to a detachment from our body, also called disassociation. Add in any trauma, and there can be layers of influence that pull our consciousness away from our bodies and the present. This dynamic can contribute to tension, stagnation, and miscommunication in our physiology, perpetuating unhealthy states of anxiety, insomnia, irritability, focus problems, memory issues, and feelings of insecurity.
Wood betony has a way of gently and safely pulling us back into the present by harmonizing our body and mind. This allows us to feel comfortable in our own skin, calm, and capable. Stachys is indicated for anyone feeling scattered, worried, panicked, stuck, depressed, insecure, overwhelmed, or antisocial.
How to Work With Betony
Older texts highlight its use as a topical vulnerary for healing injuries. This could be a soak, compress, or poultice. Wood betony can also be taken as tea for broader internal support. It is aromatic with a touch of bitterness and sweetness. Taking Stachys in this manner highlights the relaxing diaphoretic action of the herb - the release of heat. It’s interesting to note that many other diaphoretic herbs are stimulating rather than relaxing. We like betony as tea just fine but this is an herb we love to formulate with in tincture. Some herbs it plays particularly well with include damiana, hawthorn, sage and rose. In fact, betony and damiana are the lifeblood of our mood supporting tincture, Nice Time and one of our all time favorite herbal pairings. You can also make an elixir of betony by infusing it in honey.
Is Betony Safe?
Like all of the herbs we formulate with, Betony has been given GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation in the United States and has a very long history of use. However, it's always wise to consult with your healthcare practitioner before beginning any new herbal supplement. For more guidance on tinctures and how to take them, check out our FAQ page.
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