Veronica is a herb useful in the treatment of many ailments. When used as compresses, it reduces acne and also supports the wound healing process. It also facilitates expectoration, soothes irritation of the stomach and intestinal mucosa and regulates bowel movements. Has a beneficial effect on the liver.

Veronica is currently a little-known herb. Speedwell is an important element in the treatment of scurvy caused by vitamin C deficiency. The plant is used to relieve numerous diseases of the respiratory and digestive organs. Has a positive effect on the skin. Strengthens the cleansing of the body from unnecessary waste products in urine and sweat. Most often, an infusion is made from it.

Veronica forest – what kind of grass is this?

Forest speedwell (lat. Veronica officials), also known as common speedwell, is a species of perennial plant belonging to the genus Veronica (lat. Veronica). The plant grows most widely in Europe. It can be found in Austria, Czech Republic, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Spain, Germany, Norway, and France. This is quite common throughout Ukraine. Typical habitats for it are heaths, dry forests, pastures, or clearings with sandy, acidic, clay soils.

What does Veronica herb contain?

Veronica grass (from the Latin Herba Veronicae) is a medicinal plant known in folk medicine. It contains: organic acids, flavonoids, tannins, mannitol, iridoid glycosides (catalposide, acubin, veronicoside, catapol). The herb can be purchased at most pharmacies and herbal stores. You can also develop them yourself. Raw materials are collected during flowering, i.e., from early June to July. Drying is best done in natural drying rooms – shaded places with an air temperature no higher than 35℃.

Properties and uses of veronica

Forest veronica is used externally and internally. Indicated during attacks of bothersome dry cough and hoarseness. Facilitates expectoration (expands the bronchi, stimulates the leaflet movements of the epithelium of the respiratory tract), strengthens and improves ventilation of the lungs. It is useful in treating chronic digestive disorders, stomach ulcers and low appetite. It also regulates intestinal function and metabolism.

Veronica forest has detoxifying, sedative, antipyretic, diuretic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Supports liver function – stimulates the production and secretion of bile and protects its parenchyma. It is used for cholecystitis, urolithiasis and inflammation of the pancreas.

An infusion of the plant is used for washing and as compresses for rheumatic and dermatological diseases. This is an excellent treatment for sensitive, acne-prone skin with blemishes, burns, calluses and small wounds. Relieves atopic lesions and skin allergic symptoms. It has an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, disinfectant, nourishing and moisturizing effect on the skin. It supports its healing and regeneration. Additionally, it helps reduce dark circles under the eyes and soothes tired eyes. Indicated for conjunctivitis of the eyelids, irritation of the eyeball.

Read also: An ointment that accelerates wound healing

How is forest veronica used?

Most often, the healing properties of veronica are used in the form of an infusion.

Infusion of veronica forest:

Making tea is relatively simple. Pour 1–2 teaspoons of dry herb into 1 glass of boiling water and let it brew under the lid for 10–15 minutes.

Forest veronica extract:

Another way to use speedwell is as a cold extract. It is prepared as follows: 2 tablespoons of dry herbs are poured with 2 glasses of boiled chilled water, then left for 6–8 hours and finally filtered. It is recommended to drink the prepared mixtures 1 glass twice a day or 100 ml 3–4 times a day. They should not be used for longer than 3 weeks. After this time, a break in treatment for at least a week is recommended.

Forest speedwell for infections

The shell herb along with primrose root is used to prepare an expectorant decoction. To do this, mix 50 g of the first and 20 g of the second raw material, respectively. 1 tablespoon of the resulting mixture is poured into 1 glass of cold water, put on fire, heated, and after bringing to a boil, cover with a lid and cook for 5 minutes. Then the mixture is left for a quarter of an hour and filtered. The recommended daily dose is 2–3 tablespoons every 2–3 hours after meals.

Forest veronica for kidney cleansing

Another tip is to mix equal parts speedwell and goldenrod, which is recommended for cleansing the kidneys and urinary tract. Pour 1 tablespoon of the mixture into 1.5 cups (0.35 l) of cold water, heat to a boil and cook covered for 3 minutes. After removing from heat, leave for 15 minutes. It is recommended to drink it 2–3 times a day, 0.5 cups (0.12 l). This mixture can also be used as a mouth and throat rinse.