ILLEA - Latin American Institute for Environmental Studies

betony

Betonica officinalis, popularly known as betony or betony herb, is a herbaceous plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Its medicinal properties are attributed to the presence of compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.

Traditional uses:

• Respiratory problems: Betony has been used to relieve symptoms of cough, bronchitis, and asthma.

• Digestive problems: The plant is used to treat diarrhea, colic, and other digestive disorders.

• Neurological problems: Betony is considered a nerve tonic, used to relieve headaches, anxiety, and insomnia.

• Healing: The plant is used to treat wounds, cuts, and other skin lesions.

• Other uses: Betony is also used to treat gout, rheumatism, and urinary problems.

Forms of use:

• Betony can be used in the form of tea, infusion, decoction, or tincture.

• Fresh leaves can be applied topically to wounds and other skin lesions.