Wood Betony (Stachys/Betonica Officinalis)

Country Park

Wood Betony is a significant Anglo-Saxon herb. The name betony is alleged to derive from the Celtic word bewton ("good for the head"). Wood betony has been praised by classical and medieval physician-herbalists for its healing of many illnesses.

One classical physician claimed it could cure 47 different ailments; and betony’s mildly diuretic action must have been in evidence for Gerard, in 1597, to comment that “it maketh a man to pisse well”.

Although no longer considered a panacea, wood betony remains a valued member of the herbal repertoire. Wood Betony gently tones and relaxes the nervous system and is used to relieve headaches and facial pain which have resulted from anxiety and tension.  Modern herbalists prescribe wood 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.

Horses who are: tense/sore in the head and poll, headtossers, or sufferers of sinus congestion/infection could be candidates for Wood Betony, used in combination with, and as a support for, the actions of other herbs. The bitter and astringent nature of wood betony promotes good digestion.

ACTIONS include: Sedative, bitter digestive remedy, nervine, circulatory tonic, astringent, mild diuretic.

CAUTION Do not use this herb during pregnancy due to its potential to stimulate the uterus; it may be taken during labour. Do not exceed recommended dosages from your animal Herbalist.