Vervain, powder

Verbena officinalis

Origin: Europe
Form: Powder
Unit size: 1 ounce
Other names:  Verbena, Herb of Grace, Herbe Sacrée, Herba veneris
Esoteric Uses: Nourishing, nurturing, engendering, increase of energy, empress, eloquence
Esoteric Associations: Venus, Earth
Incense Aroma: Fresh earthy hay with a somewhat harsh smoke

This Herb of Venus was so called by the Ancients because they considered it to be an aphrodisiac. Verbena was the Roman name for altar-plants in general and specifically referred to this herb. In fact, the Romans placed it on altars of Jupiter in sacrifice, and considered it among the most potent of sacrificial herbs. Allegedly Druids used it in their lustral waters, and magicians used it in their rituals. It was also worn around the neck as a charm against headaches and allegedly guarded against poisonous bites. Vervain is particularly useful for female Priestesses in raising their female energy during ritual. In Ancient Egypt it was known as Tears of Isis, and in Greece it was referred to as "Juno`s Tears," both referring to the divine qualities that it was believed to have. Early Christian lore also spoke of Vervain being applied to the wounds of Jesus after he was removed from the cross, and from this medieval lore also speaks of it being referred to as Holy Herb or Devil`s Bane. Some traditions also hold that it offers powerful protection against vampires, and other evil spirits, and it sees this use frequently still in some parts of Italy. When introduced to North America, the Native American Pawnee took it up and found use for it in reaching religious states as well as using it to better fathom their dreams. Medicinally, Vervain was at one point considered to be a great treatment for up to 30 different ailments. Today, most herbalists simply believe it to be good for fevers and ulcers, with some also thinking it an aid in treating pleurisy and other such ailments. Others still have used it in creating poultices, particularly for the treatment of headaches and rheumatism.

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