Wood Betony
Betonica officinalis (syn. Stachys officinalis)
PLANT NAME
Wood Betony
COMMON NAMES
Betony, Bishop's Wort, Purple Betony
BOTANICAL NAME
Betonica officinalis (syn. Stachys officinalis)
IDENTIFICATION
A perennial grassland herb in the mint family. It has a square stem with opposite, scalloped, wrinkled leaves. It produces dense spikes of tubular, purplish-pink flowers in the summer.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers).
CULINARY USES
Primarily used in herbal teas rather than as a culinary ingredient. The tea has a somewhat bitter, black-tea-like flavor.
TRADITIONAL USES
Historically considered a panacea. Traditional herbalists used wood betony to support the nervous system, alleviate headaches, soothe tension, and support digestive health.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Harvest the aerial parts when the plant is coming into flower.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. Generally considered safe when consumed in appropriate amounts. Avoid large doses, which can cause stomach upset. Avoid use during pregnancy.
RELATED PLANTS
Woundwort (Stachys sylvatica), Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina). Note: Wood Betony (Pedicularis canadensis) is a different plant native to North America.