Brazilian Vervain (Verbena bonariensis) is a tall, elegant plant known for its delicate purple flowers, making it popular in gardens. Despite its ornamental appeal, confusion often arises regarding its potential medicinal uses. This article clarifies its characteristics and distinguishes its applications from other plants commonly called “vervain,” especially concerning medicinal claims.
What is Brazilian Vervain
Brazilian Vervain (Verbena bonariensis) is a perennial or annual herbaceous plant in the Verbenaceae family. Native to South America, it is also known as purpletop vervain, Argentinian vervain, or tall verbena. This plant grows up to 6 feet tall with slender stems and clusters of small, fragrant lavender to rose-purple flowers. It is a distinct species within the Verbena genus. It is important to differentiate Verbena bonariensis from common vervain (Verbena officinalis), as they are often confused despite having different uses and properties.
Historical and Traditional Uses
Historical and traditional uses of plants called “vervain” are well-documented, but these accounts primarily refer to Verbena officinalis, or common vervain. Ancient cultures, like the Romans who called it “Herba Sacra,” used common vervain in rituals and for various ailments. Traditional applications included remedies for headaches, fevers, digestive issues, and as an anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antispasmodic. It was also applied externally for conditions like rheumatism and skin complaints.
In contrast, Verbena bonariensis does not have a significant history of medicinal use in traditional practices. While other Verbena species, such as Verbena officinalis, have traditional medicinal roles, Verbena bonariensis is mainly valued for its ornamental qualities. Historical evidence supporting its direct use in folk medicine for specific ailments is limited. Mentions of “vervain leaf” in historical herbals typically refer to Verbena officinalis, not Verbena bonariensis.
Understanding Its Medicinal Properties
Scientific investigation into Verbena bonariensis’s medicinal properties is limited, especially compared to Verbena officinalis. While Verbena bonariensis contains compounds like flavone glucuronides, iridoids, and sterols, their specific medicinal efficacy for human health is not well-established. Research has identified compounds such as apigenin and luteolin, also found in plants with anti-inflammatory properties. However, these findings do not equate to proven medicinal benefits for Verbena bonariensis in human applications.
Unlike Verbena officinalis, which has some research supporting traditional uses for inflammation and anxiety, Verbena bonariensis lacks similar scientific backing. The presence of certain compounds does not automatically translate to therapeutic effects. Further specific research would be necessary to validate any potential health benefits unique to this species.
Safe Preparation and Considerations
Given the limited documented medicinal uses and its primary classification as an ornamental plant, specific safe preparation methods for Verbena bonariensis for medicinal purposes are not widely established. Unlike Verbena officinalis, which has traditional preparation methods like teas and tinctures, there is no comparable guidance for Verbena bonariensis. While it has no reported toxic effects, some sources advise against its consumption for medicinal purposes, distinguishing it from Verbena officinalis.
For any plant intended for internal use, exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional. Without established medicinal benefits or clear dosage guidelines for Verbena bonariensis, using it therapeutically could lead to unforeseen interactions or side effects. This plant’s focus remains on its aesthetic value and role in attracting pollinators, not as an herbal remedy.