Wood betony is an exceptional herb for the times we are in. This herb supports our nervous system when modern life is overwhelming and stressful. It is a choice of medicine for frazzled nerves and for feelings of disconnection. Wood betony restores a sense of steadiness, bringing us more into our centre and more into our bodies.

Wood betony is a common British wildflower with a plethora of medicinal uses that stem back to ancient times. It is primarily used for conditions in the nervous and digestive systems with a particular affinity to the head (1).

This important nervine medicine can be employed for its ability to calm and nourish the nervous system. It improves blood circulation to the head and may be applied for headaches and migraines (1) that are caused by stress, nervous tension or poor peripheral blood movement (2). It combines well with other aromatic nervines such as lavender, lemon balm and chamomile to offer a valuable synergy as well as to enhance the taste,  as wood betony can be quite bitter for some.

Wood betony’s most well-known application is for headaches. It can be particularly useful for headaches from sinusitis and the congestion associated with head colds. This action is thought to relate to its tannin content. Tannins have an astringent action which helps to improve the tissue health and clear congestion, particularly in the respiratory mucous membranes (3).

Wood betony is a mild bitter digestive as well as an antispasmodic agent. This combination of actions lends the herb to acute conditions in the digestive system supporting digestive processes and relaxing tension in the digestive tract. Bitter herbs are often used to support digestive processes as they stimulate the production of digestive fluids as well as support liver function (2).

Wood betony can be taken as a tincture or tea to help calm the nerves and address stress-related digestive conditions such as nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal cramps and colic (2). 

A fresh herb poultice can also be useful in first aid as it is a mild dermatological healing agent. Wood betony grows in the wild and can usually be located easily out on a summer hike. The fresh poultice can be made by chewing up the herb. The mixture can then be applied to minor wounds, cuts and grazes (2). 

A mild infusion can be used to wash the eyes for the treatment of conjunctivitis. When using a herbal infusion as an eye wash, always ensure to filter the tea with a coffee filter to remove all of the plant material prior to application (2).

In terms of energetic quality, wood betony is considered cooling by some (4) and warming by others. The latter is usually referenced  in older texts. It is, however, generally accepted by modern herbalists as a warming, relaxing aromatic medicine. The early writings of William Salmon in the 16th century referred to wood betony as hot and dry in the second degree (5). This nuance is sometimes seen across different energetic systems or even from herbalist to herbalist. It reflects the intersection between traditional and modern interpretations as well as the unique relationships that are held by the practitioner and their herbs.

This herb is specific for those experiencing emotional stress with dissociation. Wood betony is specifically indicated where there is a need to connect the mind and the body, or to bring back a sense of embodiment and presence. Wood (6) writes in ‘The Earthwise Herbal’ that wood betony is “a remedy which helps establish rootedness, connectedness, earthiness, and groundedness. It is a plant for people who are cut off from the earth or their bodies”.

The tissue states that are most indicated with this herb are those that are identified as tense or constricted. Tension may present with emotional and physical manifestations in different body systems. The tissues may be in a state of spasm. Wood betony works as both nervine relaxant and antispasmodic (5). 

In cases where headaches are caused by tension or constriction in the cerebral microcirculation, wood betony would be a prime remedy. Emotional manifestations of tension include stress, anxiety,      perhaps hyperactivity and a feeling of being ‘highly strung’ (6).

This constrictive tissue state is often indicated in those who have experienced an acutely traumatic situation or where prolonged overexposure to stress hormones has led to a heightened state. The nervous system is left in a state of hypervigilance, tension and over-reactivity. There will often be stress-related digestive symptoms such as colic, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal spasm (6). There may also be a heightened state of alertness and anxiety along with tense breathing, palpitations and an accelerated heart rate. Wood betony can work well where symptoms of both physical and emotional tension present together.

Wood betony may help with insomnia as a mild sedative action (5). It is also specifically indicated for nightmares both in modern and traditional references (2, 3).

In The Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies the pharmacognosist Dr Varro Tyler (7) writes “wood betony is one of those medicinal plants once believed to be good for practically everything whose use in folk medicine decreased over the years until it is now thought to be of relatively little value”. However, wood betony has risen in popularity in modern Western herbal medicine due to its multifarious reputation.

Greive (8) refers to the use of wood betony by the ancient Greeks. Antonius Musa, the chief physician to Emperor Augustus wrote that it was “ a certain cure for no less than forty-seven diseases” . An old Italian saying “sell your coat and buy betony” was a testimony to its value in bygone times (8). 

It was highly popular in monasteries and apothecary gardens where it may have been traditionally applied for all maladies of the head as a nerve tonic and nervine medicine (8). Many references exist for its use in hysteria, headaches, neuralgia and toothache (8).

There are also abundant references for wood betony among traditional writings for digestive conditions. Many indications for stomach pains, constipation, vomiting, nausea, vomiting and as an aid to digestion. These indications are repeated throughout historical texts such as those set out by ancient herbal scholars Dioscorides, Pliny and Gerard (3). It was also historically considered an alterative to help purify the blood which deemed this herb useful in the approach to treating rheumatic conditions (8).

Wood betony is also understood to have an emmenagogue action that can stimulate or bring on menstruation. Older texts also commonly reference wood betony for the treatment of parasites due to its anthelmintic properties (5). Finally, wood betony was traditionally used for skin and gynaecological and urinary disorders. This was often taken as tea or used externally as compresses or baths (9).

Other historical uses of wood betony include those of a more esoteric nature. It was believed to have a spiritually protective influence. A sprig of betony was carried in pockets as a talisman to protect body, mind and spirit. There are also references for its use in the protection of holy places and places of burial (3).

Nervous system

Wood betony is a gentle cerebral tonic that works by improving blood circulation to the head (2, 10). This action brings with it a number of benefits to the nervous system that includes for the brain and mind, as well as the sensory systems.

It is an excellent ally for nervous debility and for headaches that are relating to stress tension. It has a centring effect whilst also strengthening and calming a debilitated nervous system. These actions make wood betony a choice herb to incorporate into a treatment approach for anxiety (1). 

Wood betony combines well with motherwort and skullcap for anxiety conditions. Herbalists often  incorporate nerve tonics and regenerative nervines into a medicine for treating nervous debility or anxiety. This would include the use of herbs like oat straw or ashwagandha. The best medicine is fine-tuned and personalised to suit the specific circumstances and constitution of the patient.

The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia also recommends wood betony for vertigo, headaches, hysteria and neuralgia (1). Improving cerebral circulation is an important action in the treatment of ophthalmic (relating to eyes) conditions as well as conditions of the inner ear. Wood betony would be indicated for any such condition where the eyes and ears may be supported by increased tone and blood movement in the microcirculation (2).

Some aromatic nervines to consider would be those such as lavender, lemon balm and chamomile with nervous trophorestoratives such as oat straw or ashwagandha. Wood betony pairs well with skullcap for nervous headaches.

Digestive system

Wood betony should not be overlooked for conditions relating to the digestive system. It has a unique combination of antispasmodic, bitter and aromatic qualities that add to its digestive effects. Its antispasmodic actions allow it to reduce tension and contractability in the digestive tract. It is indicated in dyspepsia, nausea, heartburn, colic and for irritable bowel syndrome (2, 3, 5).

The best use of wood betony is where digestive issues are connected to stress and nervous debility. As a mildly bitter aromatic it is stimulating (carminative) to the digestive system. It offers relief in irritable bowel syndrome and other conditions that are classified by tension and flatulence. It serves as a good supporting or directing herb in any herbal formula directed towards the stomach (3) and can be combined with more specific herbs to address the specific presentation of the patient.

‘Solidarity apothecary’ discusses a further use for wood betony through its healing and vulnerary properties. The suggestion is towards using wood betony as part of a treatment approach to address intestinal permeability, otherwise known as a leaky gut syndrome (11).

Cardiovascular system

Wood betony can be used in conjunction with other cardiovascular tonics and hypotensive (herbs that reduce blood pressure) for the treatment of stress-related hypertension (high blood pressure). It addresses a number of stress-related symptoms whilst also working as a direct support to the structural health of vascular tissue (9).

Wood betony is not directly hypotensive, however its action on the nervous system makes it an important element in the treatment of hypertension, particularly where stress is a causative factor (10).

A herbalist may incorporate herbs that offer direct action to the cardiovascular system such as bilberry or hawthorn which offer support on a structural level by improving the integrity of the microcapillaries. A medicine for hypertension may also include diuretics such as dandelion or hibiscus to reduce blood volume via increased fluid output (which reduces the blood pressure). These would often be given as part of a treatment plan that also includes lifestyle and dietary interventions to improve the systemic health of the patient.

There are currently no clinical trials on the effects of wood betony in humans. However, there are a small number of in vitro studies that have been included to demonstrate a variety of its effects. Clinical trials afford us the best insight into the effects of medicinal plants in the context of clinical practice. 

Animal studies are not condoned by Herbal Reality, however for the purpose of including research from which some understanding of therapeutic actions can be confirmed, some reference is made to animal studies within the works that have been included herein:

Phytochemical analysis and in vitro biological activity of wood betony and sage extracts

An in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of extracts from wood betony and  sage (Salvia officinalis) herbs.

The study results demonstrated that wood betony displayed positive antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity as well as wound healing properties. Wood betony demonstrated antibacterial properties against B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa (12).

Wood betony works as an anti-inflammatory agent as it moderates auto antigen (inflammatory marks that are involved in autoimmune diseases) and inhibits denaturation of proteins in inflammatory disease (12).

Wood betony extract followed by sage extract also demonstrated the highest free radical scavenging capacity. The study suggests these results are comparable to that of ascorbic acid. The antioxidant activity of wood betony is believed to be related to its phenolic compounds (12).

A further in vitro study set out to explore the antioxidant properties of wood betony, finding that an extract that was lower in phenolic compounds possessed the most powerful antioxidant activity. The study suggests a connection between the bioactive compounds phenylethanoid glycosides and chlorogenic acid for these free radical scavenging actions (9).

The study also references the effects of wood betony glycosides exhibiting hypotensive activity by unblocking constrictive blood vessels (9).

These works offer us some insight into the medicinal activities of this fascinating traditional medicine showing that it has significant potential beyond many of its previously known uses.

The name ‘betony’ is thought to derive from the Celtic ‘bew’- head, and ‘ton’- good. Its more modern scientific name, Stachys, derives from Greek, meaning ‘an ear of grain’-  making references to its spike of pink/ purple flowers. The Latin specific epithet ‘officinalis’ refers to plants that were considered to have culinary or medicinal use.

Wood betony is native to Europe and Asia. Its native habitat includes grassbanks, meadows, pastures, hedgerows, hedge banks, heathlands, open lands and margins. It is occasionally found in cliff-top grassland — in some cases as the genetically dwarfed variety, Betonica officinalis. nana. It favours mildly acidic soils, but is also found on those that are neutral or strongly calcareous.

Wood betony is classified as ‘least concern’ in the IUCN list of at risk species (13). However, there have been significant local declines throughout its native habitats in England and Ireland where it is considered rare (14).

Habitat loss and over-harvesting from the wild are two of the biggest threats faced by medicinal plant species. There are an increasing number of well-known herbal medicines at risk of extinction. We must therefore ensure that we source our medicines with sustainability in mind. 

The herb supplement industry is growing at a rapid rate and until recent years a vast majority of medicinal plant produce in global trade was of unknown origin. There are some very real and urgent issues surrounding sustainability in the herb industry. These include environmental factors that affect the medicinal viability of herbs, the safety of the habitats that they are taken from, as well as the welfare of workers in the trade.

The botanical supply chain efforts for improved visibility (transparency and traceability) into verifiably sustainable production sites around the world is now certificated through the emergence of credible international voluntary sustainability standards (VSS). 

Read our article on Herbal quality & safety: What to know before you buy and Sustainable sourcing of herbs to learn more about what to look for and questions to ask suppliers about sustainability.

Herbal m edicines are often safe to take, however it is important to buy herbal medicines from a reputed supplier. Sometimes herbs bought from unreputable sources are contaminated, adulterated or substituted with incorrect plant matter.

Some important markers for quality to look for would be to look for certified organic labelling, ensuring that the correct scientific/botanical name is used and that suppliers can provide information about the source of ingredients used in the product.

A supplier should be able to tell you where the herbs have come from. There is more space for contamination and adulteration when the supply chain is unknown.

Wood b etony is a perennial wildflower that is most commonly found growing in hedgerows, cut or grazed grasslands or in open woodlands. Wood betony is a highly resilient plant that is easy to cultivate. It can be grown in full sunshine or partial shade in any soil type although it prefers loamy and sandy soils.

• Plants can be propagated from seed in autumn or spring. They can also be propagated from cuttings or the clumps can be divided.
• Sow indoors in pots or trays in late winter or early spring. To sow in late spring or early summer use the cold stratification method by keeping the seeds refrigerated for a few weeks. Keep the compost moist as germination can take several weeks.
• Once the plants are big enough to handle they can be transferred into small pots or planted out in the summer. Wood betony will flower in the second year.
• It prefers a damp soil, but waterlogging should be avoided. Generally speaking, it is a resilient plant that will be fine in most UK gardens and only needs watering when it is very dry. Once established, this plant is resistant to drought.

‘Clear head’ tea blend

This blend of gently relaxing, aromatic nervine herbs will help bring a sense of relaxation and grounding to the mind and body — allowing one to drop into a calm, clear headspace. This is a great blend to offer some extra support during times of stress or just as a general support for the nervous system. Drink throughout the day and enjoy the benefits of these delicious herbs.

Ingredients:

• Wood betony
• Skullcap
• Lime flower
• Oat straw
• Chamomile, lemon balm or lavender

Method:

Mix equal parts of the dried herbs listed below to the approximate weight of 5–10g (or 3–4 teaspoons). Steep in hot water in a teapot for up to 15 minutes. Then strain the infusion into your favourite mug. Drink up to three times a day and enjoy the benefits of these delicious herbs.

1. British Herbal Medicine Association. Scientific Committee. A Guide to Traditional Herbal Medicines : A Sourcebook of Accepted Traditional Uses of Medicinal Plants within Europe. British Herbal Medicine Association; 2003.
2. Menzies-Trull C. Herbal Medicine Keys to Physiomedicalism Including Pharmacopoeia. Newcastle, Staffs. Faculty Of Physiomedical Herbal Medicine; 2003.
3. (PDF) stachys officinalis, Wood Betony. Accessed March 5, 2024. https://www.researchgate.net publication/301109360_Stachys_officinalis_wood_betony. 
4. Easley T,  Horne SH. The Modern Herbal Dispensatory : A Medicine-Making Guide. North Atlantic Books; 2016.
5. Wood Betony Monograph – Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine. eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com. Published January 24, 2018. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com/wood-betony-monograph/#:~:text=It%20is%20well%20known%20as
6. Wood M. The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants. North Atlantic Books; 2003.
7. Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies. Haworth Herbal Press; 1999.
8. Grieve M, Leyel CF, Marshall M. A Modern Herbal : The Medicinal, Culinary, Cosmetic and Economic Properties, Cultivation and Folk-Lore of Herbs, Grasses, Fungi, Shrubs & Trees with All Their Modern Scientific Uses. Dover Publications : Made available through hoopla; 2013.
9. Šliumpaitė I, Venskutonis PR, Murkovic M, Ragažinskienė O. Antioxidant properties and phenolic composition of wood betony (Betonica officinalis L., syn. Stachys officinalis L.). Industrial Crops and Products. 2013;50:715-722. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2013.08.024
10. Hoffmann D. Medical Herbalism : The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press; 2003.
11. Betony Plant Profile – Solidarity Apothecary. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://solidarityapothecary.org/betony-plant-profile/
12. Paun G, Neagu E, Moroeanu V, Ionescu E, Radu G. Antioxidant, antimicrobial and in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of Betonica officinalis and Salvia officinalis extracts. Planta Medica. 2016;81(S 01):S1-S381. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0036-1596394
13. Khela S. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: Betonica officinalis. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Published June 8, 2012. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/203273/2762726
14. PlantAtlas. plantatlas2020.org. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://plantatlas2020.org/atlas/2cd4p9h.6yb1xg