Heath speedwell

the herb of heath speedwell (Veronicae herba)

Heath speedwell (Veronica officinalis) is a low creeping perennial with hairy leaves and pale blue flowers in upright racemes that spring from the leaf axils. It grows in dry meadows, in woodland glades and beside paths, on acid soil and in half shade.

The flowering herb is gathered in June and July, in the morning in dry weather; it is cut above the ground, without the woody creeping parts. It is dried in the shade, in a thin layer; the plant is small and dries quickly.

The genus Veronica has several species here that resemble one another, so it matters to identify it reliably by the hairy leaves and the upright racemes. In Ašič's collection the herb of heath speedwell appears in the VpresSIT and Wellbeing blends.

Use and evidence

There is no adequate clinical evidence for treating the lungs, the liver, the spleen, gout or tuberculosis; the original healing claims are removed.