Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis) herb cut and sifted - Bulk.

All of our bulk herbs are organic when available, otherwise herbs are wildcrafted and responsibly sourced.

Available in either increments of 2 oz or save 20% when you purchase a pound.

SUGGESTED USE:

Make an infusion using 1 heaping teaspoon per cup of boiling water. Steep 15 minutes, covered. Strain. Dose: 1 cup of the infusion (tea) 2-3 times per day as needed.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Not for use in pregnancy. Do not confuse stachys species with pedicularis species, which are also known as betony, as their uses are not interchangeable.

EXTRA INFORMATION:

The genus name Stachys is an ancient Greek term meaning "spike," in reference to the way the flowers grow. The name Betony is thought to derive from the Latin "vettonica", a reference to the Vettones, a people who inhabited a part of the Iberian Peninsula in ancient times. Betony is also derive from the Celtic "bew", meaning "head," and "ton", meaning "good," in reference to the herb's use for ailments of the head.

A perennial native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, Wood Betony grows in shady woods where lime is present in the soil. It has a tall, hairy stem and rough, fringed leaves. The two-lipped flowers range in color from pink to purple and bloom in whorls from short spikes. The spikes have the unique quality of having a break in the flower rings, so that the spike is interrupted.

Wood betony has long been held in high regard, as evidenced by the Spanish compliment, "He has as many virtues as betony," and the Italian saying, "It is better to sell your coat than be without betony." The ancient Anglo-Saxons wore Wood Betony as a protective charm. 

The young shoots and leaves of all Stachys species can be eaten raw or cooked. The fresh plant can be made into a hair rinse yielding golden highlights. It also can be used to make a yellow dye for wool. The dried plant has been burned as a purifying incense.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.