{"id":11604,"date":"2024-03-29T16:04:32","date_gmt":"2024-03-29T16:04:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=11604"},"modified":"2025-04-09T16:41:07","modified_gmt":"2025-04-09T15:41:07","slug":"betony","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/betony\/","title":{"rendered":"Betony"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":11611,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"d43f022f-2ee0-4bf3-abf5-c48f46a0f5c4","beyondwords_preview_token":"1cf6462f-d1a9-45a4-a97e-617b2f6b9699","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[],"conditions":[694,685,696,695],"sustainability":[1575],"sense":[17,31,18,27],"western_action":[992,989,994,997,1000,1001,1003,1007,1009,1016,1017,1019,1022,1025],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1490,1499,1498,1494,1380],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-11604","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-nervous-system","conditions-respiratory-system","sustainability-amber-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-astringent-taste","sense-bitter","sense-sweet","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-alterative","western_action-antioxidant","western_action-antispasmodic","western_action-astringent","western_action-bitter","western_action-carminatives","western_action-diaphoretic","western_action-emmenagogue","western_action-laxative","western_action-nervine","western_action-sedative","western_action-trophorestorative","western_action-vulnerary","energetics_action-relaxing","energetics_action-astringent","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-sweet","energetics_action-warm","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20240329","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Wood betony is a European plant with a rich history of use","latin_name":"Betonica officinalis<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Lamiaceae","herb_summary":"Wood betony is used in modern herbalism for much the same as it was in ancient times. This medicine has a specific affinity for the head and conditions of the nervous and digestive systems. Modern research has explored its potential as an antioxidant.","key_benefits":"Nervous debility\r\nHeadaches\r\nNeuralgia\r\nAnxiety\r\nDyspepsia\r\nDigestive conditions\r\nRespiratory congestion\r\nAntioxidant","how_does_it_feel":"Wood betony has a dynamic taste sense. It has sweet and aromatic tones with a subtle, building bitterness that develops on the tongue after drinking the infusion. The diffusive quality of wood betony can be experienced quite shortly after taking it, with a sense of \u2018opening\u2019 in the head. <\/span>","hdif_image_1":11613,"hdif_image_2":11607,"hdif_image_3":11605,"hdif_video":"","sense":[17,31,18,27],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_11606\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Small Small wood betony flower (Betonica officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nWood betony is an exceptional herb for the times we are in. This herb supports our <\/span>nervous system<\/span><\/a> when modern life is <\/span>overwhelming and stressful<\/span>. 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.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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 <\/span>digestive systems<\/span><\/a> with a particular affinity to the head (1).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis 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 <\/span>lavender<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>lemon balm<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>chamomile<\/span><\/a> to offer a valuable synergy as well as to enhance the taste, <\/span>\u00a0<\/span>as wood betony <\/span>can be quite bitter for some.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood betony\u2019s 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood betony is a mild bitter digestive as well as an antispasmodic agent. This <\/span>combination of actions lends the herb <\/span>to acute conditions in the <\/span>digestive system<\/span><\/a> 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nA 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).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nA 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).<\/span>\r\n<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_11611\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Betony Betony flowers (Betonica officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn terms of energetic quality, wood betony is considered cooling by some (4) and warming by others. The latter is usually referenced\u00a0 <\/span>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.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis 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 \u2018The Earthwise Herbal\u2019 that wood betony is \u201ca 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\u201d.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe 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).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn 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,<\/span> \u00a0 \u00a0 <\/span>\u00a0perhaps hyperactivity and a feeling of being \u2018highly strung\u2019 (6).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis constrictive tissue state is often indicated in those who have experienced an acutely traumatic situation or where prolonged overexposure to stress hormones has led<\/span>\u00a0to a heightened state. The <\/span>nervous system<\/span> is left in a state of hypervigilance, tension and over-reactivity. There will often be stress-related digestive symptoms such as <\/span>colic, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal spasm (6). <\/span>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.<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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).<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"[caption id=\"attachment_11612\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Betony Betony plant (Betonica officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn <\/span>The Honest Herbal:<\/span><\/i> A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies <\/span><\/i>the pharmacognos<\/span>ist Dr Varro Tyler (7) writes \u201cwood 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\u201d. However, wood betony has risen in popularity in modern Western<\/span>\u00a0herbal medicine due to its multifarious reputation.<\/span>\r\n\r\nGreive (8) refers to the use of wood betony by the ancient Greeks<\/span>. Antonius Musa, the chief physician to Emperor Augustus wrote that it was \u201c<\/span> a certain cure for no less than forty-seven diseases\u201d<\/span> . An old Italian saying \u201c<\/span>sell your coat and buy betony\u201d<\/span> was a testimony to its value in bygone times (8).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThere 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nOther 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).<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"[caption id=\"attachment_11605\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Small Small betony flower (Betonica officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Nervous system<\/h3>\r\nWood betony is a gentle cerebral tonic that works by improving blood circulation to the head <\/span>(2, 10)<\/span>. This action brings with it a number of benefits to the <\/span>nervous system<\/span><\/a> that includes for the brain and mind, as well as the sensory systems.<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt 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 <\/span>(1).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood betony combines well with <\/span>motherwort<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>skullcap<\/span><\/a> for anxiety conditions. Herbalists often\u00a0 incorporate nerve tonics and regenerative nervines into a medicine for treating nervous debility or anxiety. This would include the use of herbs like <\/span>oat straw<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>ashwagandha<\/span><\/a>. <\/span>The best medicine is fine-tuned and personalised to suit the specific circumstances and constitution of the patient.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe 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 <\/span>(2).<\/span>\r\n\r\nSome aromatic nervines to consider would be those such as <\/span>lavender<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>lemon balm<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>chamomile<\/span><\/a> with nervous trophorestoratives such as <\/span>oat straw<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>ashwagandha<\/span><\/a>. Wood betony pairs well with <\/span>skullcap<\/span> for nervous headaches.<\/span>\r\n

Digestive system<\/h3>\r\nWood 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_11607\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"600\"]\"Wood Wood betony leaves (Betonica officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe 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.<\/span>\r\n\r\n\u2018Solidarity apothecary\u2019 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).<\/span>\r\n

Cardiovascular system<\/h3>\r\nWood betony<\/span> 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<\/span>\u00a0symptoms whilst also working as a direct support to the structural health of vascular tissue (9).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nA herbalist may incorporate <\/span>herbs that offer direct action to the cardiovascular system such as <\/span>bilberry<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>hawthorn<\/span><\/a> which offer support on a structural level by improving the integrity of the microcapillaries. A medicine for hypertension may also include diuretics such as <\/span>dandelion<\/span><\/a> 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.<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_11613\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Purple Purple betony (Betonica officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThere are currently no clinical trials on the effects of wood betony in humans. However, there are a small number of in vitro<\/span> studies that have been included to demonstrate a variety of its effects<\/span>. Clinical trials afford us the best insight into the effects of medicinal plants in the context of clinical practice.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAnimal studies are not condoned by Herbal<\/span> Reality<\/span>, 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:<\/span>\r\n

Phytochemical analysis and in vitro biological activity of wood betony and sage extracts<\/h3>\r\nAn in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of extracts from wood betony and\u00a0 <\/span>sage<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Salvia officinalis<\/span><\/i>) herbs.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe 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 <\/span>B. subtilis<\/span><\/i> and <\/span>P. aeruginosa <\/span><\/i>(12).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nWood 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nA 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).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe study also references the effects of wood betony glycosides exhibiting hypotensive activity by unblocking constrictive blood vessels (9).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThese works offer <\/span>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.<\/span>","did_you_know":"The name \u2018b<\/span>etony\u2019 is thought to derive from the Celtic \u2018<\/span>bew\u2019-<\/span><\/i> head, and \u2018<\/span>ton\u2019-<\/span><\/i> good. Its more modern scientific name, <\/span>Stachys<\/span><\/i>, derives from Greek, meaning \u2018an ear of grain\u2019-\u00a0 making references to its spike of pink\/ purple flowers. The Latin specific epithet \u2018<\/span>officinalis\u2019<\/span><\/i> refers to plants that were considered to have culinary or medicinal use.<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":11614},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Wood betony is an herbaceous perennial wildflower that grows in matted clumps. It grows gradually and can reach up to one to two feet in height and width.\r\n\r\nIts leaves are large, heart-shaped, ovate to oblong, petiolate and dark green with scalloped edges. The leaves are stalkless and grow alternately at wide intervals, in pairs along the stem along stems. The largest leaves arise from the root in clumps at the base of the plant. Smaller leaves grow from the slender, squared stems that arise into singular flower heads. Both types of foliage have a rough texture and short hairs. The surface has glands that emit a bitter, aromatic oil.\r\n\r\nThe purple, red flowers are arranged in a whorl. Above the whorl is bare stem, followed by the small and stalkless leaves, then additional flowers which forms a spike of alternating flowers and leaves. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators. It can be mistaken for marsh woundwort (Stachys palustris<\/em>).","common_names":"","safety":"Wood betony is safe to use for all ages. Due to its emmenagogue properties it is best to avoid using during pregnancy and lactation.","interactions":"None known","contraindications":"None known","preparation":"