Synopsis

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

Wood betony (Stachys officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional Western herbal medicine, especially in Europe, as a remedy for sleep disturbances such as restlessness and poor sleep quality. Writings from the Middle Ages, such as those by herbalists Nicholas Culpeper and John Gerard, recommend wood betony for calming the nerves, relieving headaches, and promoting restful sleep. The herb was believed to have mild sedative and anxiolytic properties, and infusions of its aerial parts were commonly used as a bedtime tea. However, the evidence supporting these uses is largely anecdotal and based on centuries of empirical tradition rather than controlled scientific studies. Modern phytochemical analyses reveal that wood betony contains compounds such as tannins, glycosides, and volatile oils, but there is limited to no clinical research directly evaluating its effectiveness for insomnia or sleep disorders. While some modern herbalists continue to recommend wood betony for nervous tension and mild sleep disturbances, the overall evidence level remains low, and its use for sleep is best characterized as traditional rather than scientifically validated. Individuals considering wood betony should consult with qualified healthcare providers, especially as research into its efficacy and safety is lacking.

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