Wood Betony Herb

What is wood betony? Traditional European herbalism has long used Stachys officinalis, a native of Europe, for its ability to promote well-being. The wood betony belongs to the mint family and has heart-shaped leaves at the base that turn opposite, oval, and serrated as they climb the stem, bearing a spike of purple flowers. This herbaceous perennial has a rich mythological tradition, primarily associated with dreaming and protection. Wood betony may be tinctured, brewed as a tea, or used externally. "Sell your coat and buy betony," a medieval Italian saying said. Wood betony used to be thought of as a herbal "magic bullet" that could cure a broad range of illnesses. Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus's main physician, Antonius Musa, listed 47 ailments he was able to cure with the plant. Native to Europe, wood betony is a plant with a spike of purple blooms on a long central stem that may grow up to 1–2 feet (60–90 cm) high. Each leaf has short, fine hairs fringed around it, and they are all harsh to the touch. The whole surface of the leaves is covered with glands that secrete a fragrant, bitter oil. How do I use wood betony? To make tea, one to two teaspoons of dried wood betony…