Betonic

In clearings in deciduous forests such as oak groves, but also in somewhat humid meadows and bushy moors, this slender and elegant plant grows, the betony (Stachys officinalis). It can measure up to 70 cm in height and has basal leaves, attached to the vine by long petioles and with an elongated blade, with toothed margins and truncated at its base.

The upper leaves are smaller, without a petiole. The flowers are grouped in a dense spike, and are bright pink or sometimes pale pink, almost white. It blooms in spring and summer.

Betonic properties

How does Font i Quer collect in its Dioscorides renewed, betony had long been considered a panacea, and it was said that it could cure up to forty-three diseases, including almost all those that afflict women. It is in the flowering tops and leaves where the active principles of this labiatae are concentrated, which is not a panacea but offers remarkable therapeutic benefits.

It contains betaine, lactones such as stachin, phenolic acids and abundant tannins. It is considered antispasmodic, slightly analgesic and sedative, hypotensive, astringent and emmenagogue, as well as healing by topical route.

What is betony used for?

In herbalists it is recommended to help control blood pressureespecially when the tendency to present high levels may be linked to nervous problems, stress or anxiety.

The betony, combined with other plants, can alleviate some Headaches and the migraineincluding the hemicranial.

It is equally effective as digestive plant. She is an ideal ally in recurring episodes of gastrointestinal spasms influenced in part by nervous states or stress. It is also useful for relieving stomach flu.

It is also indicated to treat period pains with spasms, in dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea.

It is equally effective in relieving back pain and muscle tension.

Betony Infusion Recipes

Infusion of betony against headache and migraine

To prepare the herbal tea, betony is combined with feverfew, ginkgo, passion flower and star anise, in equal parts.

How to prepare it: Boil a tablespoon of the mixture per glass of water for 2 minutes, let it rest for 5 and filter.how to take it: Drink 2 or 3 glasses a day, better on an empty stomach. This tea can be useful in headaches caused by overexertion or noise. Substituting feverfew for hops or vervain, sleep is favored.

Infusion of betony for gastrointestinal spasms due to nervous states

The betony is combined with lemon verbena, lemon balm and chamomile, in equal parts.

How to prepare it: The water is scalded, the plants are poured and left to rest for just 10 minutes.how to take it: Take a herbal tea after each main meal.

Infusion to control high blood pressure due to stress

An interesting formula is the one that combines betonica with hawthorn, olive leaves and star anise, more or less in equal proportion.

How to prepare it: Boil a tablespoon of the mixture per glass of water for 2 minutes and let it rest for another 10.how to take it: Take a couple of glasses a day, the last one an hour before going to bed.

Infusion to wash wounds and promote healing

The infusion of betony, with horsetail and shepherd’s purse is effective due to its astringent and healing action.

contraindications

Betonic, especially if the root is used, should not be used in case of gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcer due to its high tannin content.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”