Valerian
Scientific name: Valeriana officinalis
Medicinal value
This herb relaxes, treats insomnia, nervous tension and pain, strengthens
heart, lower blood pressure, IBS, menstrual cramps and muscle spasms. It is
often used as a tranquilizer.
Religious importance
It is believed that Valerian is used to get fighting couples back together,
in spells of love and in purification baths.
Habitat
Valerian is a perennial plant that grows to 3 feet and prefers full sun,
average to rich well-drained soil and its roots are harvested for medicinal
use in the fall of their second year.
Vervain
Scientific name: Verbena officinalis
Medicinal value
This herb is used to treat liver diseases, exhaustion, fatigue, fever,
insomnia, asthma, post-natal depression, malaria, dysentery, congestion,
painful or irregular menses, increases the flow of mother's milk and is a
pain reliever. Do not use during pregnancy.
Religious importance
It is believed that Vervain is used for cleansing incenses and baths and is
buried in the field to have abundant crop. It is burned to attract wealth
and hung above a bed to prevent nightmares and above a baby's crib to offer
protection and is used as a pledge of mutual faith when given to a friend.
Habitat
It is a perennial herb that grows 1-2 feet tall and prefers full sun,
average to rich soils and is grown throughout temperate North America.
Violet
Scientific name: Viola odorata
Medicinal value
This herb is an effective healer for internal ulcers, malignant growths. It
is used both internally and externally for pimples, abscesses, tumors and
swollen glands.
Religious importance
It is believed that Violet if kept in pillow eases headaches. If carried
the flower brings a change in luck and mixed with lavender makes a powerful
love sachet.
Habitat
This perennial prefers partial shade, average to rich well-drained soil to
grow to 8 inches tall.
Vitex
Scientific name: Vitex agnus-castus
Medicinal value
This herb normalizes the reproductive system, treats infertility, PMS,
menopausal problems and hormonal imbalances.
Religious importance
It is believed that if twigs of Vitex are carried they are a symbol of
purity.
Habitat
Vitex is a small shrub with a height of 9 to 16 feet prefers the warm areas
of the Deep South.
