Herbs & Botanicals · Traditional nerve and sinus herb
Vervain
Verbena officinalis · also called European vervain, common vervain, verbena herb, Eisenkraut
Vervain is a European herb whose leaves and flowers are used as a tea or tincture for nerves and sleep, and it is one of five herbs in the Sinupret sinus product. Trials of that five-herb mixture found small sinus-symptom benefits, but vervain on its own has not been tested in people. Calming and sleep claims rest on tradition and animal tests. The key caution: avoid it in pregnancy, and do not confuse it with blue vervain or lemon verbena.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Vervain
Vervain (Verbena officinalis) is a European herb used as a tea or tincture for nerves and sleep and as one of five herbs in the Sinupret sinus product. Human trials tested only the mixture. It is avoided in pregnancy and is easily confused with blue vervain and lemon verbena.
What it is
Vervain is a perennial plant of the vervain family. The above-ground parts (leaf, stem and flower) are used. A quality monograph for the dried herb, 'Verbenae herba', has been in the European Pharmacopoeia since 2008.
Other names include European vervain, common vervain and Eisenkraut in German.
How it is traditionally used
Folk medicine uses it to calm the nerves, for poor sleep, low mood and headaches, and for milk flow and period pain. In late pregnancy it was traditionally used to help start labour.
In Germany the herb is one of five in the Sinupret formula (with gentian root, primula flower, sorrel herb and elder flower), used for about 70 years for sinus and chest-cold symptoms.
What the research shows
The best human evidence is for the five-herb mixture in sinus infection. Pooled trials in 589 adults found lower symptom scores than placebo after 14 days. The chronic sinus trial missed its main goal. Vervain's own part cannot be separated.
For calming, mood and sleep we found no human trial of vervain alone. Animal and cell studies are early and do not show benefit in people.
Do not confuse it with other plants
Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) is a North American wildflower, a different species. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a lemon-scented shrub of a different genus. Vervain tea sold in the Americas may be made from either; we did not verify this in a source, so always check the Latin name on the label.
Safety information for one of these plants should not be assumed to apply to the others.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Calming the nerves, stress and low mood
- Poor sleep and headaches
- Sinus and chest-cold symptoms (in a five-herb German mixture)
- Increasing breast milk and easing period pain
- Bringing on labour in late pregnancy (the reason it is avoided today)
Studied for research
- Acute viral sinus infection: two trials of a five-herb mixture, small benefit
- Chronic sinus disease: main result null, subgroup benefit
- Sinus infection in children: open-label only, insufficient
- Calm, mood and sleep: animal tests only
- Lab work on nerve-cell protection, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects
Main compounds
- Verbenalin (cornin) and hastatoside (iridoids)
- Verbascoside (a phenylpropanoid glycoside)
- Flavonoids, phenolic acids and essential oil
Common forms
- Dried herb tea
- Tincture
- Capsules and tablets
- Five-herb Sinupret extract, drops or syrup
Research links: Health · Evidence · Safety · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
The plant and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Verbena officinalis L.
- Naming authority
- L.
- Common names
- Vervain (English); European vervain (English); Common vervain (English); Verbena herb (English); Verbenae herba (Latin (pharmacy name)); Eisenkraut (German)
- Botanical family
- Verbenaceae (vervain family)
- Classification
- Plantae > Lamiales > Verbenaceae > Verbena > Verbena officinalis
- Native range
- Widely distributed in the world and growing widely in Europe (per two papers); detailed native range not verified.
- Habitat
- Not described in the sources read.
- What the plant looks like
- Roots: Not described.; Stems: Not described.; Leaves: Not described.; Flowers: Not described.; Fruit: Not described.
- Cultivation
- Not verified.
- Harvest and processing
- The above-ground herb is dried for tea, tincture and extracts; European Pharmacopoeia standard 'Verbenae herba'.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Blue vervain (Verbena hastata); Note: North American wildflower; different species; see the blue vervain page.; Name: Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora); Note: Different genus with lemon-scented leaves; often sold as 'verbena' tea.; Name: Other Verbena species; Note: Other plants in the genus may be sold under similar names; not assessed here.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not assessed here.
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Folk medicine in Europe and Asia | Used to calm the nervous system, and for many other complaints. | p40941816 |
| Traditional Chinese medicine and the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (since 1995) | The herb is listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia; folk uses include dysentery, enteritis, amenorrhea and depression. | p32937665 |
| European Pharmacopoeia (since 2008) | Monograph on Verbenae herba as a quality standard. | p32937665 |
| German herbal medicine | Verbena herb is one of five herbs in the Sinupret formula, used in Germany for about 70 years for respiratory-infection symptoms. | p16645287 |
| Traditional midwifery | Used in the last weeks of pregnancy to help start labour, which is why pregnancy use is advised against. | s-peacehealth |
Traditional use shows how a plant was used. It does not show that a supplement works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What the plant contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verbenalin (cornin) PubChem 73467 | iridoid glycoside | Herb (also found in Cornus officinalis) | Named in LactMed as a vervain iridoid. Did not show mutagenicity in one bacterial test. Other activity was not read in detail. 21 16 15 | Laboratory research |
| Hastatoside PubChem 92043450 | iridoid glycoside | Herb | Named by LactMed; activity not read. 16 15 | Laboratory research |
| Verbascoside (acteoside) PubChem 5281800 | phenylpropanoid glycoside | Herb | Named by LactMed; a 2020 review lists phenylpropanoid glycosides among vervain's main groups. 16 11 15 | Laboratory research |
| Flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids and essential oil | mixed polyphenols and volatiles | Herb | Listed by the 2020 review; the 2025 paper measured eight main phenolic compounds and 17 amino acids in extracts. 11 10 | Laboratory research |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| GABA / benzodiazepine and opioid pathways | GABA-A receptor (suggested) | Receptor blockers changed the seizure-delaying effect of an ethanol extract in mice, so the authors suggest GABA involvement. 19 | Animal research |
| Beta-amyloid toxicity in nerve cells | Caspases, PKR, JNK | Water extract reduced cell-death enzyme activity and stress-kinase signals in rat nerve cells in a dish. 12 | Laboratory research |
| Anxiety-like and depression-like behaviour | Not identified | Extracts changed behaviour in several animal tests; mechanism not shown. 10 1 | Animal research |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not studied for vervain in people.
- Distribution
- Not studied.
- Metabolism
- Not studied.
- Elimination
- Not studied.
- Bioavailability
- Not established. LactMed: no data on excretion of any vervain component into breast milk.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
The human sinus trials used a fixed five-herb extract, not vervain alone. Lab work often uses purified compounds such as verbenalin or special extracts (for example 70% ethanol or amino-acid modified extracts), which are not the same as tea. Results from one form should not be carried over to another.
Nutritional composition
Not a nutrient source. LactMed says vervain is generally recognised as safe as a food in the US.
1 mixed findings2 low certainty5 not enough evidence
What is Vervain good for?
What vervain has been studied for and how strong the evidence is. The only human trials are of a five-herb mixture, so nothing here is proven for vervain alone.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Acute viral sinus infection (five-herb mixture, adults)
Low certaintyTwo placebo-controlled trials of a five-herb mixture that includes vervain herb, pooled in one analysis of 589 adults, found lower sinus symptom scores than placebo after 14 days. Vervain on its own has not been tested, so we cannot say how much of the effect is vervain.
2 studiesA coated-tablet dry extract of the five herbs. No vervain-only produc…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One pooled analysis of two randomised, placebo-controlled trials (589 adults, 15 days of treatment) and one of those two trials reported on its own (ARhiSi II, registered NCT01146860).
Results
In the pooled analysis the major symptom score fell from about 10 to 2.47 with the mixture and to 3.63 with placebo; the gap at day 14 was 1.16 points (p < 0.0001) and quality of life also favoured the mixture (p = 0.0015). The single-trial report says symptom relief came about two days earlier and the number needed to treat for healing was 8. No serious adverse events were reported in that trial.
Effect sizes as reported
Difference in major symptom score 1.16 points (SD 3.14) at day 14 in the pooled analysis; number needed to treat 8 in the single trial report.
Why this rating
Several trials agree, but all test a branded five-herb mixture, they were run by the same research group with industry links, and vervain's own share cannot be separated. For vervain alone the certainty is insufficient.
Form and dose studied
A coated-tablet dry extract of the five herbs. No vervain-only product was tested.
Who was studied
Adults with acute viral rhinosinusitis, early in the illness (symptoms up to 3 days in one trial).
Limits
Mixture only; manufacturer-linked; short follow-up; symptom scores are partly self-reported.
Why researchers looked
The mixture (BNO 1016, sold as Sinupret) has been used in Germany for decades for sinus and chest-cold symptoms.
Traditional use
European herbal practice combined gentian root, primula flower, sorrel herb, elder flower and verbena herb as a 'mucus-loosening' formula.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Not established. The mixture is described as helping mucus drain and calming inflammation, but the abstracts we read do not show which herb does what.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
The mixture is labelled for no use in pregnancy or breastfeeding and not for children under 12 or people with stomach or duodenal ulcer. See the Safety tab. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about amounts.
Sinusitis: what the reviews say about the mixture
Low certaintyReviews from 2006 and 2016 judge the five-herb mixture as possibly helpful, mainly when added to standard treatment, and say the trials are few and of mixed quality.
3 studiesSeveral versions of the same mixture (BNO-101 and BNO 1016).
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Three systematic reviews. Melzer 2006 looked at 6 controlled trials of the mixture (about 900 mostly young men). Guo 2006 covered 10 trials of herbal products, 4 of them Sinupret. Koch 2016 covered 7 trials of herbal products in acute sinusitis.
Results
Added to antibiotics, the mixture beat placebo in two trials (159 v 160 people): 61.1% 'cured' v 34.5%. Against ambroxol (a mucus-thinning drug) there was no overall difference after 2 weeks, with a hint of benefit in chronic cases (37.1% v 12.5%). No difference against N-acetylcysteine or Myrtol in two open trials. Guo and colleagues called the Sinupret findings 'encouraging' but the whole field 'limited'. Koch and colleagues said the mixture 'might be helpful'.
Effect sizes as reported
Melzer: cured 61.1% v 34.5% (p < 0.05) in the two add-on-to-antibiotic trials.
Why this rating
The reviewers themselves describe few trials, mixed quality and older work.
Form and dose studied
Several versions of the same mixture (BNO-101 and BNO 1016).
Who was studied
Mostly young adult men; both acute and chronic sinusitis.
Limits
Reviews are older; one reviewer team's links to the maker are not stated in the abstract.
Why researchers looked
Reviewers wanted to know whether herbal products add anything for sinus infections.
Traditional use
See above.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Adverse events were similar to placebo in the review of the older trials.
Chronic sinus disease (five-herb mixture)
Mixed findingsThe largest trial, 929 adults over 12 weeks, did not meet its main goal. A later subgroup look found a benefit in people with longer, more severe disease. A 2025 review also describes a post-viral sinusitis trial favouring the mixture.
2 studiesTwo levels of the extract were tested, see the paper.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One randomised placebo-controlled trial (CRS-02, 929 adults, 12 weeks, two levels of the mixture). A 2025 review, read only through our earlier summary, adds a post-viral sinusitis trial and a small comparison with a nasal steroid spray that was probably too small to show a difference.
Results
The mixture was not better than placebo on the main outcome (symptom score at weeks 8 and 12). Secondary results leaned in its favour. In a post-hoc subgroup (higher starting score, disease over a year, specialist diagnosis) the mixture was better. Good tolerability was reported.
Effect sizes as reported
No numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
The main result was null; the positive finding is a subgroup chosen after the data were in, from authors at the maker.
Form and dose studied
Two levels of the extract were tested, see the paper.
Who was studied
Adults with chronic rhinosinusitis.
Limits
Primary endpoint missed; post-hoc analysis; maker-linked authors; the 2025 review was not re-opened.
Why researchers looked
Chronic sinus disease is long-lasting and hard to treat, so a gentle herbal option is of interest.
Traditional use
Same traditional mixture.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Same cautions as above.
Sinus infection in children (five-herb syrup or drops)
Not enough evidenceThree open-label trials in children aged 4 to 11 reported improvement, but there was no placebo group and no safety data in the review. This is not enough to judge.
2 studiesSyrup or drops (the drops contain alcohol per the maker).
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Described in a 2025 children's review that we read only through our earlier summary.
Results
Improvement in symptoms was reported without a comparison group.
Effect sizes as reported
Not given.
Why this rating
Open-label, no placebo, safety not reported; not re-opened.
Form and dose studied
Syrup or drops (the drops contain alcohol per the maker).
Who was studied
Children 4 to 11.
Limits
Open-label; summary-only.
Why researchers looked
Parents ask for gentle options for sinus infections.
Traditional use
Same mixture in syrup or drops.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
The adult extract is labelled not for children under 12. Ask a paediatrician first.
Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use)
Not enough evidenceVervain is a traditional 'nerve tonic' used for stress, low mood and poor sleep. We found no human trial of vervain alone for these uses, so benefit in people is unproven.
3 studiesTea, tincture and capsules exist; none were tested for these uses in …
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
None for vervain alone. A consumer reference (PeaceHealth, 2015) says no human studies have documented use of the herb for any condition.
Results
No human results to report.
Effect sizes as reported
None.
Why this rating
Traditional use and animal tests only.
Form and dose studied
Tea, tincture and capsules exist; none were tested for these uses in people.
Who was studied
None studied.
Limits
No human data.
Why researchers looked
Folk medicine in Europe and Asia uses vervain to calm the nerves.
Traditional use
A 2025 paper says verbena has traditionally been used in folk medicine to calm the nervous system. A 2006 paper lists depression among its folk uses.
Proposed mechanism Animal research
Unknown. Mouse work suggests an effect on GABA signalling, which is lab evidence only.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Some animal work suggests sedation, so extra drowsiness with sedatives is a theoretical concern. See the Safety tab.
Animal findings: anxiety, depression-like behaviour and seizures
Not enough evidenceIn mice and rats, vervain extracts reduced anxiety-like and depression-like behaviour and delayed seizures. These are single-lab animal tests and do not show benefit in people.
3 studiesDifferent extracts in each study, not comparable to teas or capsules.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
None.
Results
A 70% ethanol extract showed strong anxiety-reducing and antidepressant-like effects in animals (tail suspension immobility 1.22-fold lower than control, p < 0.05); an aqueous extract reduced forced-swim immobility in rats (p < 0.01) and lowered blood glucose (p < 0.05); an ethanol extract of aerial parts delayed and shortened seizures in mice.
Effect sizes as reported
Animal numbers as listed above; see the study records.
Why this rating
Animal only, one level tested in several studies, no human confirmation.
Form and dose studied
Different extracts in each study, not comparable to teas or capsules.
Who was studied
Mice and rats.
Limits
Animal tests often do not carry over to people.
Why researchers looked
To test the folk use of calming the nerves.
Traditional use
Used in Iran and elsewhere for convulsions and nerves, per the paper.
Proposed mechanism Animal research
In mice the seizure effect changed when benzodiazepine and opioid receptor blockers were given, so the authors suggest the GABA system is involved.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Extract showed no toxicity in the mouse seizure study.
Lab findings: nerve-cell protection and other effects
Not enough evidenceIn cell dishes, a vervain water extract protected nerve cells from beta-amyloid toxicity. A 2020 review also lists antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving findings in lab and animal work. None of this is human evidence.
2 studiesLab extracts.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
None.
Results
Cell-dish and animal results only.
Effect sizes as reported
None applicable.
Why this rating
Lab and animal only.
Form and dose studied
Lab extracts.
Who was studied
Cells and animals.
Limits
No human data.
Why researchers looked
To look for how the plant may act.
Traditional use
Used for many complaints in folk medicine.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
Reduced cell-death enzyme activity and the stress signals PKR and JNK in rat nerve cells.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
None specific.
Breast-milk flow, period pain and gum inflammation (traditional)
Not enough evidenceVervain has a reputation for increasing breast milk and easing period pain. A US reference says no valid clinical trials support the milk use, and a consumer reference says only traditional use supports these claims. A gum-inflammation study mentioned by one source was not read.
3 studiesNot studied.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
LactMed (2024) found no scientifically valid clinical trials and no data on safety in nursing mothers or infants. EBSCO and PeaceHealth (summary-only) call the evidence limited.
Results
No human results.
Effect sizes as reported
None.
Why this rating
No trials found.
Form and dose studied
Not studied.
Who was studied
None studied.
Limits
The gum-inflammation study mentioned by EBSCO was not found or read.
Why researchers looked
Folk use.
Traditional use
Used as a galactogogue (milk-boosting herb) and for menstrual complaints.
Proposed mechanism Traditional use
None shown.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Vervain is advised against in pregnancy; for breastfeeding there are no safety data. See the Safety tab.
Connections to the rest of health
How Vervain connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immune Support | Low certainty | Acute viral sinus infection (five-herb mixture, adults): Two placebo-controlled trials of a five-herb mixture that includes vervain herb, pooled in one analysis of 589 adults, found lower sinus symptom scores than placebo after 14 days. Vervain on its own has not been tested, so we cannot say how much of the effect is vervain. Sinusitis: what the reviews say about the mixture: Reviews from 2006 and 2016 judge the five-herb mixture as possibly helpful, mainly when added to standard treatment, and say the trials are few and of mixed quality. | 8 7 13 6 9 17 20 4 2 | |
| Breathing Support | Low certainty | Acute viral sinus infection (five-herb mixture, adults): Two placebo-controlled trials of a five-herb mixture that includes vervain herb, pooled in one analysis of 589 adults, found lower sinus symptom scores than placebo after 14 days. Vervain on its own has not been tested, so we cannot say how much of the effect is vervain. Sinusitis: what the reviews say about the mixture: Reviews from 2006 and 2016 judge the five-herb mixture as possibly helpful, mainly when added to standard treatment, and say the trials are few and of mixed quality. | 8 7 13 6 9 17 20 | |
| Stress Reduction | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use): Vervain is a traditional 'nerve tonic' used for stress, low mood and poor sleep. We found no human trial of vervain alone for these uses, so benefit in people is unproven. | 18 10 12 |
| Calm Relaxation | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use): Vervain is a traditional 'nerve tonic' used for stress, low mood and poor sleep. We found no human trial of vervain alone for these uses, so benefit in people is unproven. | 18 10 12 |
| Anxiety Support | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use): Vervain is a traditional 'nerve tonic' used for stress, low mood and poor sleep. We found no human trial of vervain alone for these uses, so benefit in people is unproven. | 18 10 12 |
| Mood Balance | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use): Vervain is a traditional 'nerve tonic' used for stress, low mood and poor sleep. We found no human trial of vervain alone for these uses, so benefit in people is unproven. | 18 10 12 |
| Better Sleep | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use): Vervain is a traditional 'nerve tonic' used for stress, low mood and poor sleep. We found no human trial of vervain alone for these uses, so benefit in people is unproven. | 18 10 12 |
| Anxiety Support | Preliminary mechanism | Not enough evidence | Animal findings: anxiety, depression-like behaviour and seizures: In mice and rats, vervain extracts reduced anxiety-like and depression-like behaviour and delayed seizures. These are single-lab animal tests and do not show benefit in people. | 10 1 19 |
| Mood Balance | Preliminary mechanism | Not enough evidence | Animal findings: anxiety, depression-like behaviour and seizures: In mice and rats, vervain extracts reduced anxiety-like and depression-like behaviour and delayed seizures. These are single-lab animal tests and do not show benefit in people. | 10 1 19 |
| Brain Health | Preliminary mechanism | Not enough evidence | Lab findings: nerve-cell protection and other effects: In cell dishes, a vervain water extract protected nerve cells from beta-amyloid toxicity. A 2020 review also lists antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving findings in lab and animal work. None of this is human evidence. | 12 11 |
| Inflammation Balance | Preliminary mechanism | Not enough evidence | Lab findings: nerve-cell protection and other effects: In cell dishes, a vervain water extract protected nerve cells from beta-amyloid toxicity. A 2020 review also lists antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving findings in lab and animal work. None of this is human evidence. | 12 11 |
| Womens Wellness | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Breast-milk flow, period pain and gum inflammation (traditional): Vervain has a reputation for increasing breast milk and easing period pain. A US reference says no valid clinical trials support the milk use, and a consumer reference says only traditional use supports these claims. A gum-inflammation study mentioned by one source was not read. | 16 18 3 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Respiratory System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Acute viral sinus infection (five-herb mixture, adults) Studied for: Sinusitis: what the reviews say about the mixture | 8 7 13 6 9 17 20 4 2 |
| Immune System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Acute viral sinus infection (five-herb mixture, adults) | 8 7 |
| Nervous System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use) Studied for: Animal findings: anxiety, depression-like behaviour and seizures | 18 10 12 1 19 11 |
| Stress Mood | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use) | 18 10 12 |
| Sleep Recovery | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Calming, low mood and sleep (traditional use) | 18 10 12 |
| Reproductive System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Breast-milk flow, period pain and gum inflammation (traditional) | 16 18 3 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major symptom score (sinus symptoms) | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 8 17 |
| Ultrasound signs of sinus infection | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 7 |
| Sinus quality of life (SNOT-20 GAV) | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 8 |
| Immobility time in animal despair tests | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 1 10 |
| Blood glucose (rats) | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 1 |
J. Genes, receptors and enzymes
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GABA-A receptor | Preliminary mechanism | Animal | Suggested by mouse seizure work. | 19 |
K. Biological pathways
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PKR and JNK stress signalling | Preliminary mechanism | In vitro | Reduced in cultured nerve cells exposed to beta-amyloid. | 12 |
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verbenalin (cornin) | Biological association | In vitro | Named in LactMed as a vervain iridoid. Did not show mutagenicity in one bacterial test. Other activity was not read in detail. Preparation or compound: Herb (also found in Cornus officinalis) |
21 16 15 |
| Hastatoside | Biological association | In vitro | Named by LactMed; activity not read. Preparation or compound: Herb |
16 15 |
| Verbascoside (acteoside) | Biological association | In vitro | Named by LactMed; a 2020 review lists phenylpropanoid glycosides among vervain's main groups. Preparation or compound: Herb |
16 11 15 |
| Flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids and essential oil | Biological association | In vitro | Listed by the 2020 review; the 2025 paper measured eight main phenolic compounds and 17 amino acids in extracts. Preparation or compound: Herb |
11 10 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 25, 2026).
The evidence
The research centre for Vervain. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We built on our existing summary, read PubMed abstracts, and checked GBIF, NCBI Taxonomy and PubChem. Consumer references and the manufacturer page were carried over from our earlier summary and not re-opened. Most studies were read as abstracts only.
Study library: every study we checked 21
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bekara 2020 Evaluating the Antidepressant Effect of Verbena officinalis L. (Vervain) Aqueous Extract in Adult Rats Basic and Clinical Neuroscience · PMID 32483479 · DOI |
Animal research animal |
Adult female rats | Aqueous extract of Verbena officinalis herb one level tested, see paper 7 days · vs control animals |
Immobility time fell (p < 0.01) and the animals explored more. Blood glucose fell (p < 0.05). No harmful effect on brain histology was seen. Animal signal only (not given in abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Forced-swim immobility, light-dark box, open field, blood glucose, brain histology Limitations: Small rat study, one level, one week. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared Read: abstract |
| Bionorica SE (manufacturer) 2026 Mandatory information (Sinupret product information) Bionorica SE · Source |
Reference |
not applicable | Sinupret extract and drops unspecified not given here not given here |
Per our earlier summary: lists stomach complaints and, occasionally, skin or allergic reactions and dizziness; not for people with stomach or duodenal ulcer; not for children under 12; no use in pregnancy or breastfeeding; the drops contain alcohol (456 mg ethanol per 50 drops). not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Manufacturer document, carried over from our existing summary and not re-opened for this page. It concerns the five-herb product, not vervain alone. Funding and conflicts: Manufacturer Read: summary-only |
| EBSCO 2024 Vervain's therapeutic uses (EBSCO Research Starters) EBSCO Research Starters · Source |
Reference |
not applicable | Vervain (species not named in the article) unspecified not given here not given here |
Per our earlier summary: says evidence for breast-milk flow and period pain is limited; says vervain may not be safe in pregnancy; calls animal work from 2016 and 2020 far too early to show benefit; mentions one gum-inflammation study that we did not read. not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Carried over from our existing summary and not re-opened. The article does not name the species. Read: summary-only |
| Frontiers in Pediatrics review (authors not re-opened) 2025 Phytotherapy for acute respiratory tract infections in children: a systematically conducted, comprehensive review Frontiers in Pediatrics · Source |
Systematic review |
Children aged 4 to 11 in three open-label trials of Sinupret syrup or drops | Five-herb Sinupret syrup or drops unspecified not given here not given here |
Per our earlier summary: three open-label trials reported symptom improvement, with no placebo group and no safety data reported in the review. Insufficient Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Carried over from our existing summary and not re-opened for this page. Open-label, no placebo. Read: summary-only |
| GBIF 2026 GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Verbena officinalis L. (species match) GBIF API · Source |
Database |
not applicable | Verbena officinalis L. unspecified not given here not given here |
Checked 2026-10-25: Verbena officinalis L. is ACCEPTED, exact match, usage key 2925529, family Verbenaceae, order Lamiales. not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Database record. Read: full-text |
| Guo 2006 Herbal medicines for the treatment of rhinosinusitis: a systematic review Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery · PMID 17011407 · DOI |
Systematic review |
10 randomised trials of herbal products for rhinosinusitis (4 of Sinupret) | Sinupret as an add-on treatment (among other herbal products) mixed not given here not given here · vs placebo or no extra treatment |
Four trials tested Sinupret as an add-on. Two in acute sinusitis (including the largest and best) and one in chronic sinusitis were positive. The reviewers call the evidence for any herbal medicine limited, and the Sinupret result 'encouraging'. Median quality score was 3 of 5. Encouraging but limited (not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Symptoms of acute and chronic rhinosinusitis Limitations: Mixed trial quality; the review is from 2006. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract Read: abstract |
| Jund 2012 Clinical efficacy of a dry extract of five herbal drugs in acute viral rhinosinusitis Rhinology · PMID 23193534 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
Adults with acute viral rhinosinusitis, symptoms up to 3 days (ARhiSi II) | BNO 1016 (Sinupret extract): dry extract of five herbs - gentian root, primula flower, sorrel herb, elder flower and verbena herb mixed (verbena herb is one of five) fixed daily amount, see paper 15 days · vs placebo |
Authors report a clinically relevant, significant difference in symptom score versus placebo, symptom relief two days earlier, and a number needed to treat of 8. No serious adverse events were reported. Moderate, in a mixture (not given in abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Mean major symptom score at end of treatment; responder rates; ultrasound Limitations: Number of people not stated in the abstract. Mixture of five herbs. Abstract read only. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract (the same research group as the 2015 pooled analysis) Registration: NCT01146860; EudraCT 2009-016682-28 Read: abstract |
| Jund 2015 Herbal drug BNO 1016 is safe and effective in the treatment of acute viral rhinosinusitis Acta Otolaryngologica · PMID 25496178 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
589 Adults with acute viral rhinosinusitis (two similar trials pooled) |
BNO 1016 (Sinupret extract): dry extract of five herbs - gentian root, primula flower, sorrel herb, elder flower and verbena herb mixed (verbena herb is one of five) fixed daily amount, see paper 15 days · vs placebo |
MSS fell by 10.02 points to 2.47 with the extract and by 9.87 to 3.63 with placebo. The difference at the end was 1.16 points (p < 0.0001). Quality of life also favoured the extract (p = 0.0015). Small but statistically significant gain over placebo, from a five-herb mixture (not given in abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Major symptom score (MSS) at day 14; quality of life (SNOT-20 GAV); ultrasound-confirmed remission Limitations: Pooled analysis of two trials of a branded mixture, so the part played by vervain cannot be separated. Our earlier summary lists the manufacturer as funder; the abstract itself does not say. Funding and conflicts: Industry-linked (per our earlier summary; not stated in abstract) Read: abstract |
| Koch 2016 A Systematic Review of Phytotherapy for Acute Rhinosinusitis (German) Forschende Komplementarmedizin · PMID 27404100 · DOI |
Systematic review |
Seven controlled trials of herbal products in acute rhinosinusitis | BNO 1016 and BNO 101 (Sinupret) among other products mixed not given here not given here · vs placebo |
The reviewers say BNO 1016 and BNO 101 'might be helpful', with few trials and mixed risk of bias, and call for more research. Possible benefit, limited (not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis Limitations: Few trials; heterogeneous quality; abstract read only (German paper). Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract Read: abstract |
| Koshovyi 2025 Verbena officinalis L. Herb Extract, Its Amino Acid Preparations and 3D-Printed Dosage Forms: Phytochemical, Technological and Pharmacological Research Plants (Basel) · PMID 40941816 · DOI |
Animal research animal |
Laboratory animals (behaviour tests) | Dry aqueous-ethanolic extract (70% ethanol) of Verbena officinalis herb, plus amino-acid modified extracts herb not given here not given here · vs reference drug and control animals |
The 70% ethanol extract showed strong anxiety-reducing and antidepressant-like effects in animals; extracts with valine and arginine showed sedative activity. Immobility time in the tail suspension test was 1.22-fold lower than in control animals (p < 0.05). The authors state the effects on the human nervous system need clinical studies. Animal signal only (not given in abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Open field, elevated plus maze, black-and-white box and tail suspension tests Limitations: Animal behaviour tests only. Abstract read. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared Read: abstract |
| Kubica 2020 Verbena officinalis (Common Vervain) - A Review on the Investigations of This Medicinally Important Plant Species Planta Medica · PMID 32937665 · DOI |
Review in-vitro and animal (reviewed) |
not applicable (plant science review) | Verbena officinalis herb and its compounds aerial parts (herb) not given here not given here |
Reviews botany, chemistry (iridoids, phenylpropanoid glycosides, phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, essential oil) and traditional uses. Reports lab and animal findings (antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticancer, analgesic, anticonvulsant). Notes monographs on 'Verbenae herba' in the European Pharmacopoeia since 2008 and the Chinese Pharmacopoeia since 1995. not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Narrative review of lab and animal work; no human trials of vervain alone are described in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no conflict of interest Read: abstract |
| Lai 2006 Novel neuroprotective effects of the aqueous extracts from Verbena officinalis Linn. Neuropharmacology · PMID 16406021 · DOI |
Laboratory research in-vitro |
Rat nerve cells in a dish | Aqueous extract of Verbena officinalis herb not given here not given here · vs untreated cells |
The extract reduced beta-amyloid toxicity and the activity of cell-death enzymes (caspases), and reduced phosphorylation of PKR and JNK. Cell-dish signal only (not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Nerve cell death caused by beta-amyloid Limitations: Cell culture only; the authors call it a lead for further work. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract Read: abstract |
| Melzer 2006 Systematic review of clinical data with BNO-101 (Sinupret) in the treatment of sinusitis Forschende Komplementarmedizin · PMID 16645287 · DOI |
Systematic review |
About 900 mostly young adult men in 6 controlled sinusitis trials | BNO-101: gentian root, primula flower, sorrel herb, elder flower and verbena herb (ratio 1:3:3:3:3) mixed (verbena herb is 3 of 13 parts) not given here about 2 weeks in the trials · vs placebo, ambroxol, N-acetylcysteine, Myrtol |
Added to antibiotics, the mixture beat placebo after 2 weeks in 2 trials (159 v 160 people): 'cured' 61.1% v 34.5%. Versus ambroxol (2 trials, 151 v 150) there was no overall difference. No difference in two open trials versus N-acetylcysteine and versus Myrtol. Adverse events were similar to placebo. Positive as an add-on to antibiotics; about the same as other mucus-thinning products (p < 0.05 for the main comparisons (intervals not in abstract)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Patient-rated cure, drainage obstruction, headache, X-ray signs Limitations: Older trials, mostly young men. Authors' links to the maker are not stated in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in abstract Read: abstract |
| NCBI 2026 NCBI Taxonomy: Verbena officinalis NCBI Datasets API · Source |
Database |
not applicable | Verbena officinalis unspecified not given here not given here |
Checked 2026-10-25: tax_id 79772, rank species, GenBank common name 'common vervain'. not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Database record. Read: full-text |
| NCBI PubChem 2026 PubChem compound records: verbenalin, verbascoside, hastatoside PubChem PUG REST · Source |
Database |
not applicable | Verbenalin, verbascoside, hastatoside unspecified not given here not given here |
Checked 2026-10-25 by name: verbenalin CID 73467 (C17H24O10); verbascoside CID 5281800 (C29H36O15); hastatoside CID 92043450 (C17H24O11). not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Database record. Read: full-text |
| National Institute of Child Health and Human Development 2024 Vervain (Drugs and Lactation Database, LactMed) LactMed (NCBI Bookshelf) · PMID 30000912 |
Reference |
Breastfeeding mothers and infants (no data) | Vervain (Verbena officinalis) unspecified not given here not given here |
Says vervain contains iridoid glycosides (verbenalin, hastatoside), verbascoside and flavonoids; that it is a purported galactogogue with no scientifically valid clinical trials; that no data exist on excretion into breast milk or on safety in nursing mothers or infants; that it is 'generally recognized as safe' (GRAS) as a food by the US FDA and well tolerated, though gastrointestinal and allergic reactions have been reported. Record dated 2024-08-15. not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Reference summary, not a study. Read: full-text |
| Palm 2017 Assessment of efficacy and safety of the herbal medicinal product BNO 1016 in chronic rhinosinusitis Rhinology · PMID 28214913 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
929 Adults with chronic rhinosinusitis |
BNO 1016 (Sinupret extract): dry extract of five herbs - gentian root, primula flower, sorrel herb, elder flower and verbena herb (two levels tested) mixed (verbena herb is one of five) two levels tested, see paper 12 weeks · vs placebo |
The extract was NOT better than placebo on the main outcome. A later (post-hoc) look at people with higher baseline scores and disease longer than a year, diagnosed by an ear-nose-throat specialist, found a benefit. Safety and tolerability were reported as good. Main outcome null; benefit only in a subgroup chosen after the results (not given in abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Mean major symptom score at weeks 8 and 12 Limitations: The positive result comes from a post-hoc subgroup, which is weaker evidence. Mixture of five herbs. Authors include Bionorica employees. Funding and conflicts: Industry-linked (authors at the maker, Bionorica SE) Read: abstract |
| PeaceHealth 2015 Vervain (PeaceHealth / Healthwise consumer health reference) PeaceHealth · Source |
Reference |
not applicable | Vervain (European vervain) unspecified not given here not given here |
Per our earlier summary: advises avoiding vervain in pregnancy because it was traditionally used in the last weeks to help start labour; states that no human studies have documented use of the herb for any condition; says traditional use only supports use for breast-milk flow and period pain. not applicable Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Consumer reference last reviewed 2015; carried over from our existing summary and not re-opened for this page. Read: summary-only |
| Rashidian 2017 Anticonvulsant Effects of Aerial Parts of Verbena officinalis Extract in Mice: Involvement of Benzodiazepine and Opioid Receptors Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine · PMID 28585447 · DOI |
Animal research animal |
Mice (seizure models) | Ethanolic extract of Verbena officinalis aerial parts aerial parts several levels, see paper not given here · vs diazepam (reference drug) |
The extract delayed seizures and shortened them. Blockers of benzodiazepine and opioid receptors changed the effect, so the authors suggest a link to the GABA system. The extract showed no toxicity in the tests. Animal signal only (not given in abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Time to seizure onset and seizure duration Limitations: Mouse seizure models only; says nothing about use in people. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared Read: abstract |
| Review in Current Allergy and Asthma Reports (authors not re-opened) 2025 Herbal medicine in acute and chronic sinusitis; still a Cinderella? Current Allergy and Asthma Reports · Source |
Review |
Adults with post-viral or chronic sinusitis | Five-herb Sinupret extract unspecified not given here not given here |
Per our earlier summary: describes a post-viral sinusitis trial and a larger chronic sinusitis trial favouring the extract, and a comparison with a nasal steroid spray that was probably too small to show a difference. The review did not formally grade the evidence. Mixed Methods, limits and fundingLimitations: Carried over from our existing summary and not re-opened for this page. Read: summary-only |
| Shin 2022 Bacterial Reverse Mutation Test of Verbenalin Journal of Pharmacopuncture · PMID 36628351 · DOI |
Laboratory research in-vitro |
Bacterial strains (Ames test) | Verbenalin (a compound in vervain; also in Cornus officinalis) isolated compound several concentrations not applicable · vs untreated control |
No sign of mutagenicity: colony counts were under double those of the control. The authors say repeated-dose, reproductive and cancer-risk tests are still needed. No mutagenic signal in this single test (not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Mutation (revertant colony) counts, with and without metabolic activation Limitations: One bacterial test of the isolated compound, not of the whole herb. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared Read: abstract |
What we do not know yet
- No trial of vervain alone for any use.
- Independent repeat of the Sinupret trials, and trials that separate vervain's part.
- No safety, liver, pregnancy or interaction studies of vervain alone.
- Hormone, blood pressure and clotting effects unstudied.
- EMA/HMPC, NCCIH and Commission E not read.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and are placed in a review queue. A person reads each one before it changes any evidence rating or safety wording.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Metabolic 1
Blood glucose (rats)
Lowered in trials
Sugar level in the blood.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Recorded as a side measure in one rat study.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Single small rat study; no human data. People on glucose-lowering medicines should keep this in mind as an unstudied possibility.
Safety implication
Theoretical additive effect with diabetes medicines; not tested in people.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blood glucose fell (p < 0.05) at the level tested. | Adult female rats | Verbena officinalis aqueous extract, 7 days |
Other 4
Major symptom score (sinus symptoms)
Lowered in trials
A questionnaire score adding up main sinus symptoms such as facial pain, blocked nose and discharge.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
It was the main yardstick in the adult trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A symptom score is a patient-reported outcome, and a 1.16-point gap on a scale that fell by about 10 points in both groups is real but modest.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Fell by 10.02 points to 2.47 with the mixture and by 9.87 points to 3.63 with placebo; difference at day 14 was 1.16 points (p < 0.0001). | 589 adults with acute viral rhinosinusitis (two trials pooled) | BNO 1016 five-herb extract v placebo |
| 17 | No significant difference from placebo on the main outcome at weeks 8 and 12; benefit only in a post-hoc subgroup. | 929 adults with chronic rhinosinusitis | BNO 1016 at two levels v placebo |
Ultrasound signs of sinus infection
Lowered in trials
Ultrasound used to confirm infection at the start and clearing at the end.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
An objective check beside symptom scores.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Supports the symptom result, but only a single trial is reported here.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | More people in the mixture group had no signs of acute viral rhinosinusitis on ultrasound at the end of treatment (numbers not in the abstract). | Adults with acute viral rhinosinusitis | BNO 1016 v placebo |
Sinus quality of life (SNOT-20 GAV)
Lowered in trials
A questionnaire on how sinus symptoms affect daily life and mood.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Shows how people felt, not just symptom counts.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Statistically significant; size not given in the abstract.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Quality of life favoured the mixture over placebo (p = 0.0015). | 589 adults with acute viral rhinosinusitis | BNO 1016 v placebo |
Immobility time in animal despair tests
Lowered in trials
Time an animal stays still in a swim or tail-suspension test; used as a rough animal model of low mood.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Animal screen for mood-lifting effects.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Animal behaviour test; not a human measure.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Immobility time fell (p < 0.01) in rats given an aqueous extract. | Adult female rats | Verbena officinalis aqueous extract, 7 days |
| 10 | Immobility in the tail suspension test was 1.22-fold lower than control with the 70% ethanol extract (p < 0.05). | Laboratory animals | 70% ethanol dry extract |
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 4
- Avoid in pregnancy. A consumer reference advises avoiding vervain in pregnancy because it was traditionally used in the last weeks to help start labour. That points to a possible effect on the womb, but we found no controlled study or case series that tested this. The five-herb Sinupret product is labelled for no use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Until safety is shown, pregnant people are advised to avoid it. Traditional use 18 3 2
- Little safety data for vervain on its own. No safety trial of vervain alone was found. The US breastfeeding database says it is well tolerated and 'generally recognised as safe' as a food, but that stomach and allergic reactions have been reported and that no data exist for nursing mothers or infants. Authoritative guidance 16
- Make sure it is the right plant. European vervain (Verbena officinalis) is not blue vervain (Verbena hastata, a North American wildflower) and not lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora, a lemon-scented shrub). Information about one plant should not be assumed to apply to another. Check the Latin name on the label. Other 5 11
- Possible drowsiness and interactions are theory only. Mouse work suggests vervain extract may act through GABA-type receptors, so extra sleepiness with sedatives is a theoretical concern. Effects on blood thinners, iron absorption, blood pressure, blood sugar and hormones (prolactin, oestrogen) have not been studied in people, and we found no animal data on prolactin or oestrogen. Pharmacological theory 19 1
Side effects 4
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stomach and bowel upset Listed by LactMed for vervain and by the maker for the five-herb mixture. No rates are given. | Not established | mild to moderate Not stated | Authoritative guidance 16 2 |
| Allergic or skin reactions Described as occasional for the five-herb mixture. Frequency for vervain alone is unknown. | Not established | mild to moderate Not stated | Authoritative guidance 16 2 |
| Dizziness Listed occasionally for the five-herb mixture only. | Not established | mild Not stated | Authoritative guidance 2 |
| No serious adverse events in the main trials of the mixture The authors report good tolerability, and the older trials in the review show adverse events similar to placebo. These were manufacturer-linked trials of a mixture, so this does not clear vervain alone. | Not established | not applicable not applicable | Controlled trial 7 17 13 |
Liver
No case of liver injury from vervain was found. A search of NCBI Bookshelf for a LiverTox vervain entry returned nothing, so no LiverTox record was read. Absence of reports is not proof of safety.
How often. Unknown.
Monitoring. No official advice found. Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or severe tiredness need prompt medical care.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Vervain supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 6
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedatives, sleep medicines, alcohol and other calming herbs prescription | Mouse seizure work suggests vervain extract acts through benzodiazepine-type (GABA) pathways, which could add to sedation. | Unknown. No interaction study in people. | Animal research Very low certainty 19 | Tell your doctor or pharmacist about sedatives or sleep aids before using vervain. |
| Blood thinners (anticoagulants such as warfarin) prescription | Raised only as a precaution because plant tannins and other plant compounds can sometimes affect how drugs and blood clotting behave. We did not find or read a source that measures this for vervain. | Unknown. No case report or study found. | Pharmacological theory Very low certainty 11 | If you take a blood thinner, check with your doctor or pharmacist before using vervain. |
| Iron supplements and iron-poor diets nutrient | Tannin-rich teas can reduce iron absorption in general. A 2020 review lists phenolic compounds in vervain, but we did not confirm its tannin content or any effect on iron. | Unknown for vervain. | Pharmacological theory Very low certainty 11 | If you are low in iron, ask a doctor or pharmacist whether to take vervain tea apart from iron. |
| Blood pressure medicines prescription | No blood pressure effect of vervain was found in any source we read. | Unknown. | Pharmacological theory Not enough evidence | No specific warning can be given. Mention vervain to your doctor if you take blood pressure medicines. |
| Diabetes medicines prescription | One rat study saw lower blood glucose with a vervain water extract. | Unknown in people. | Animal research Very low certainty 1 | Mention it to your doctor if you take medicines that lower blood sugar. |
| Hormone-sensitive conditions or hormone medicines (oestrogen, prolactin) prescription | Vervain is a purported milk-boosting herb, which might involve hormones. We searched PubMed and found no study of prolactin or oestrogen effects, so none can be reported. | Unknown. | Traditional use Not enough evidence 16 | If you have a hormone-sensitive condition, ask your doctor before using vervain. |
Who should check first 5
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Avoid. Traditional use to bring on labour and no safety data; the five-herb mixture is labelled for no use. | Traditional use 18 3 2 |
| Breastfeeding | No data on safety for the mother or infant, and no valid trial of benefit for milk flow. Ask a doctor, midwife or lactation consultant. | Authoritative guidance 16 2 |
| Children | The five-herb adult extract is labelled not for children under 12. Vervain alone has not been studied in children; ask a paediatrician. | Authoritative guidance 2 4 |
| Stomach or duodenal ulcer | The five-herb product is labelled not for people with these ulcers. Ask your doctor about vervain alone. | Authoritative guidance 2 |
| Avoiding alcohol | Tinctures and Sinupret drops contain alcohol (456 mg ethanol per 50 drops for the drops, per the maker). | Authoritative guidance 2 |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. No poisoning from vervain was found in the sources read, and no measured toxic amount. Absence of reports is not proof of safety.
Animal. The mouse seizure study reported no toxicity from an ethanol extract of aerial parts in the tests done. A rat study saw no harmful effect on brain histology at the level tested.
Human doses studied. Not given here.
High dose or long term signals. None found. Long-term safety of vervain alone is untested.
Overdose response. No overdose reports found.
Genotoxicity. The isolated compound verbenalin showed no mutagenic signal in one bacterial (Ames) test. The authors say repeated-dose, reproductive and cancer-risk tests are still needed. The whole herb was not tested.
Toxic plant parts. The above-ground herb (leaf, stem and flower) is the medicinal part. No toxic part has been identified in the sources read.
The main practical risk is getting the wrong plant. Quality-testing data (heavy metals, pesticides) for vervain products were not found.
Blue vervain mix-up. Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) is a North American plant with a similar common name. It is a different species; vervain tea sold in the Americas may be made from it. This regional point was not confirmed in a source we read. 5
Lemon verbena mix-up. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is a different genus. Teas sold as 'verbena' may be lemon verbena, which is a lemon-scented leaf tea with different uses. 5
Pharmacopoeia standard. A monograph on 'Verbenae herba' has been in the European Pharmacopoeia since 2008, so a quality standard exists for the herb. 11
Supplement label accuracy. LactMed notes that dietary supplements often differ in labelled and actual ingredients or amounts. 16
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| US FDA (via LactMed) (US) | Vervain is 'generally recognized as safe' as a food, per the LactMed record. Dietary supplements do not need pre-market approval. source | 2024-08-15 |
| European Pharmacopoeia (EU) | Monograph on Verbenae herba since 2008 (per a 2020 review); Chinese Pharmacopoeia since 1995. source | 2020 |
When to get medical help
- Swelling of the face, lips or tongue, trouble breathing or a spreading rash after taking it
- Vaginal bleeding, cramping or leaking fluid in pregnancy after taking it
- Severe stomach pain, vomiting blood or black stools
- Yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine
- Heavy drowsiness or confusion, especially with sedatives
Stop the supplement and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is vervain?
Does vervain help with sinus infections?
Is vervain safe in pregnancy?
Is vervain safe while breastfeeding?
No data exist on safety for the mother or infant, and no valid trial supports its use for milk flow. Ask a doctor, midwife or lactation consultant.
Does vervain calm anxiety or help sleep?
What is the difference between vervain, blue vervain and lemon verbena?
They are three different plants. Vervain is Verbena officinalis from Europe. Blue vervain is Verbena hastata from North America. Lemon verbena is Aloysia citrodora, a lemon-scented shrub of another genus. Read the Latin name on the label.
Can I take vervain with blood thinners or iron?
No interaction study exists. Blood-thinner and iron concerns are precautions based on theory about plant compounds, not on reported cases. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you take a blood thinner or are low in iron.
Does vervain affect blood pressure or hormones?
Can vervain make me drowsy?
Mouse work suggests it may act through GABA-type pathways, so extra sleepiness with sedatives or alcohol is a theoretical concern. No human data exist.
Is vervain safe for the liver?
No cases of liver injury were found, and no LiverTox entry was found. Lack of reports is not proof of safety. Seek care for yellow skin or eyes or dark urine.
What side effects are known?
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-25
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-25
- How we research
- We built on our existing summary, read PubMed abstracts, and checked GBIF, NCBI Taxonomy and PubChem. Consumer references and the manufacturer page were carried over from our earlier summary and not re-opened. Most studies were read as abstracts only.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown. If one is added later it will be labelled and kept apart from the evidence.
Sources 21
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Bekara A, Amazouz A, Douma TB. Evaluating the Antidepressant Effect of Verbena officinalis L. (Vervain) Aqueous Extract in Adult Rats. Basic and Clinical Neuroscience. 2020. PMID 32483479. DOI 10.32598/bcn.11.1.3. (abstract)
- Bionorica SE (manufacturer). Mandatory information (Sinupret product information). Bionorica SE. 2026. (summary-only)
- EBSCO. Vervain's therapeutic uses (EBSCO Research Starters). EBSCO Research Starters. 2024. (summary-only)
- Frontiers in Pediatrics review (authors not re-opened). Phytotherapy for acute respiratory tract infections in children: a systematically conducted, comprehensive review. Frontiers in Pediatrics. 2025. (summary-only)
- GBIF. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Verbena officinalis L. (species match). GBIF API. 2026. (full-text)
- Guo R, Canter PH, Ernst E.. Herbal medicines for the treatment of rhinosinusitis: a systematic review. Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. 2006. PMID 17011407. DOI 10.1016/j.otohns.2006.06.1254. (abstract)
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