Discovering His Creation: Brazilian vervain

In one of those nice weed patches in my neighborhood is where I found Brazilian Vervain. Not one I could completely figure out on my own. Since I'm so new to all this I got some help from a group on facebook. As some of the plants I write about and photograph I have seen this but never knew the name. I went back to get better pictures and wouldn't you know it the city had mowed it down. Glad they didn't do a very good job because I found a few other new plants. None to worry though because on my way down there God had provided one growing right at the edge of the road of one of the homes here. Sorry but perfectly kept lawns can't be found by everyone in this neighborhood and that in this case is a blessing. Brazilian vervain is native to South America namely Brazil and also found in coastal Europe, Southern Africa and Australasia. It's considered an invasive species in the mid-south United States and prohibited on National Forest lands. Vervain has long been used in herbal medicine as a tea. As far back as 1652 the folk uses were known and recorded by Nicholas Culpepper in The English Physician. Vervain has been used as a remedy for colds, a tonic, aid for digestion and ointment. As a reminder be cautious and well informed before trying or using any plant medicinally or as an edible. Knowing and having the advice of an expert would be recommended. Speaking of experts the one who created all things is still revealing to man the uses and benefits of so many plants He placed here. Take some time and discover God's creation. You may be surprised at what you learn !

Brazilian vervain (Verbena brasiliensis)

Brazilian vervain (Verbena brasiliensis) leaf

Brazilian vervain (Verbena brasiliensis)

Monday, August 18, 2014

Brazilian vervain (Verbena brasiliensis)