Common Hedgenettle/Betony
An absolutely stunning medicinal herb!
It’s been used in herbal medicine for centuries and it’s medicinal powers have been known to us since the Roman Empire. Modern herbalists prescribe betony to treat anxiety, gallstones, heartburn, high blood pressure, migraine and neuralgia, and to prevent sweating. It can also be used as an ointment for cuts and sores much like hedge woundwort.
Common hedgenettle is in the mint family (Lamiaceae) and has a lovely smell to it that doesn’t actually resemble mint.
This amazing herb also has a history of being smoked. It’s believed to alleviate headaches and induce calming affects when smoked. Put that in your pipe and smoke it!
Happy foraging!!
Scientific name: Betonica officinalis