Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)
Centuries of European herbalists used wood betony as a calming remedy and to treat eczema, hives, and shingles. Wood betony teas also treat sore throats caused by allergies or colds, heartburn, and inflammation due to infections of the urinary tract. The herb is used in combination with other treatments to remove intestinal parasites.
The wood betony was highly regarded as a cure all plant during the middle Ages. The herb was believed to possess many magical properties, including the power to ward off evil spirits * - it was widely used in amulets for this reason. In contemporary folk medicine, the medication is principally valued for its astringent properties, useful in the treatment of problems such as diarrhea and in treating irritations affecting the throat, the mouth, and the gums
COMMON NAMES Betony, Lousewort, Purple Betony, Wood Betony
* Be careful! The FDA has not yet evaluated the effectiveness of Wood Betony to ward off evil spirits. Warding off of evil spirits should be done at your own risk. A lack of evaluation by the FDA however, should be taken with less than a grain of salt. Their own scientists have no faith whatsoever in the FDA.
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