Wood Betony • Stachys officinalis
Parts Used: leaves, stems and flowers
Affinity: stomach, musculoskeletal system (face, neck, shoulders and mid back), nervous system
Herbal Action: alterative, analgesic, bitter, carminative, emmenagogue, nervine, trophorestorative
Indications:
Strengthens and soothes the nervous system and encourages a feeling of connectedness and grounding
Traditionally used for headaches caused by head and neck tension, anxiety, nervousness or from digestive issues
Preferred Preparations: infusion, tincture
Taste: black tea
Contraindications: generally regarded as safe but can cause GI irritation for some
Origin Story: used to exorcise demons in the Middle Ages