Botanical Overview
Betonica officinalis, commonly known as Betony, Holy Betony, or Wood Betony, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Europe, temperate regions of Asia, and the Mediterranean. The parts used medicinally include the aerial parts, leaves, and flowering tops.
Energetics
Betony is considered cooling in temperature and drying in moisture. Its taste profile is predominantly bitter and astringent, with an ascending directionality. It is regarded as tonifying in nature, primarily affecting the qi energy.
Primary Actions
- Astringent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Nervine
- Mild diuretic
- Hemostatic
- Tonic
Indications
Western
- Headache
- Neuralgia
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Mild respiratory congestion
- Hypertension
Syndromes
- Nervous system weakness
- Digestive sluggishness
- Mucous membrane irritation
- Mild hypertension
TCM
No well-established uses.
Ayurveda
No well-established uses.
Unani
No well-established uses.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The primary phytochemical classes found in Betonica officinalis include diterpenes, flavonoids, iridoids, phenolic acids, and tannins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and tonic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g dried herb, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 at 50% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Betony is generally safe when used appropriately. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to lack of safety data. Avoid if allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family. No significant drug interactions reported.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Saturn
Elemental ruler: Earth
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of the World: An Illustrated Scientific Guide to Important Medicinal Plants and Their Uses by Ben-Erik van Wyk (2005)
- Plants For A Future Database: Betonica officinalis
- Commission E Monograph: Betonica officinalis (1998)
- The Herbal or General History of Plants by John Gerard (1597)