- Latin name
- Verbena officinalis
- Element
- earth
- Planet
- Venus
- Safe to eat?
- No, not for eating or drinking
How to use it
- Sweep or sprinkle an infusion to cleanse the altar
- Hang a dried bundle in the home for peace
- Add to a ritual bath before magical work
- Carry a dried sprig for protection
Lore
The Romans called it herba sacra and used it to sweep and purify the altars of Jupiter. Pliny wrote that the Gauls and their Druids used vervain for divination, and later it was known in England as the herb of grace.
Safety
Do not use during pregnancy, as it may stimulate the womb. It may interfere with blood pressure medicines and iron absorption. Seek advice before taking it internally, and keep it away from pets.
Not for eating or drinking.
Gods linked with it
More earth herbs
- Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris