Evidence supporting the use of: Betony
For the health condition: Nervousness

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Betony (Stachys officinalis), also known as wood betony, has a long history of use in European herbal medicine, particularly for nervousness, anxiety, and related conditions. Historical texts from the Middle Ages extol betony as a remedy for a wide range of ailments, with nervous system complaints being prominent among them. Herbalists such as Nicholas Culpeper and John Gerard recommended betony for "nervous debility," headaches, and to "strengthen the head and nerves." Traditional preparations included teas, tinctures, and poultices.

Modern scientific evidence for betony’s efficacy in treating nervousness is limited and largely anecdotal. There are few clinical trials, and those that exist typically combine betony with other herbs, making it difficult to attribute effects specifically to betony. Some phytochemical studies have identified the presence of iridoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds, which may contribute to mild sedative or anxiolytic effects, but these findings are preliminary and not conclusively linked to clinical outcomes.

In summary, while there is substantial traditional use supporting betony for nervousness, robust scientific validation is lacking. Its reputation in folk medicine persists, but more rigorous research is needed to substantiate its efficacy for this indication.

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Products containing Betony

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