Verbena

About : Verbena

Verbena is a genus in the family Verbenaceae, which is native to Canada, South Chile and Europe. The little flowers of the Verbena are usually blue, but can be white, pink, or purple – especially in cultivated plants.

A Healing Plant

Verbena, also known as Vervain, has been used in medicine and herbalism for hundreds of years and is usually ingested as an herbal tea. However, some believe this plant holds divine powers and with supernatural forces. It was referred to in ancient Egypt as "tears of Isis" and was also mentioned in the stories of the gods of ancient Greece. One legend claims that Common Vervain was applied to Jesus' wounds after he was removed from the cross and it adopted the nickname "Holy Herb," as a result.

Verbena in Agriculture

Verbena plants are hardy and easy to grow, making them popular among farmers in Provence. They are drought-resistant, tolerating full to partial sun – something there is no shortage of in the Mediterranean! If you fancy sampling some Verbena ingredients in a more light-hearted fashion, then try some Verveine, a well-known liqueur from the Le Puy-En-Velay region.

Energizing Verbena by L'OCCITANE

The Verbena plant is also used by L'OCCITANE en Provence to create a range of products that have energizing and purifying effects, alleviating stress and reviving the senses. This collection includes hand and body soaps, shower gels and body lotions, among other products.