It's interesting what you can "learn" on the internet. According to (vampirediaries.wikia.com) vervain is "a vampire's most well-known weakness". I was under the misconception that their weak spots were garlic, sunlight and a stake through the heart (although the latter would be pretty effective on most beings). Vervain, according to witchipedia.com, can also be used in love spells, as a protection against snake bites (though it's probably even safer to avoid poisonous snakes) and it can wash away negative energy.Anyway, I'm obviously not a vampire (or a witch, although some people might disagree) because I like vervain, and I drink the herb as a tisane, letting the dried leaves infuse in hot water. Vervain is also known as verbena and verveine, and both its leaves and flowers are edible, although I've only tasted the former. When buying dried vervain, look for large, whole leaves that are pale green; if they're starting to turn yellow or brown, they're too old. If possible, smell the leaves: a strong fragrance means a stronger flavour.
The medicinal properties attributed to vervain include increased milk flow in lactating women, a calming effect on nerves and inflammation reduction in swollen joints.
Vervain tisane is pale green-yellow, with a lemony fragrance and flavour. I like it as a digestif after dinner, because it's light on the palate. Poured over ice and sweetened with crushed fresh fruit (such as raspberries and peaches), the tisane makes a delicious summer drink.
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