Valerian | Vanilla |
Verbenas Vervain | Viper's
Bugloss | Violet Sweet violet
Note: This
information is not intended as medical advice, and should not be
relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor who
is familiar with your medical needs. Valerian (Valerianaofficinalis) 100-150 cm (3-5 ft).
Numerous small pale pink flowers in clusters, toothed leaflets, usually
unbranched, hairy in parts. Roots grow out like a head of hair.
Medicinal use of the roots, to overcome insomnia, but should not be used
without advice and is addictive.
Back To Index Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia).
Comes from the long pod of a tropical vine. The pods are fermented and
cured for six months before marketing.
Extract is prepared by mashing pods in alcohol.
Back To Index Verbenas Vervain (Verbena
officinalis) Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora).
Two different plants often confused.
Vervain is 30-60 cm (1-2 ft), small lilac flowers on long slender spikes,
rough and hairy plant with square stalks.
Lemon verbena is similar height but has yellowish green leaves shiny
on upper side and pale lavender flowers in slender downy clusters.
Both plants can be cultivated but the latter is rather tender.
Use of vervain tea is supposed to stimulate production of bile and to
act as a sedative, also supposed to clear the sight.
Culinary use of lemon verbena leaves in fruit drinks and salads, lemon-scented.
Drunk as a scented tea in Spain.
Back To Index Viper's Bugloss see Bugloss
Back To Index Violet Sweet violet (Viola odorata).
Familiar wild violet, violet, white, yellow or rose-coloured flowers,
leaves at base, sends out runners along ground.
Found wild in hedgerows and the edges of woods.
Medicinal use of whole plant for tea used as a soothing gargle. Tea or
syrup made from flowers and root is remedy for coughs.
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