Limited evidenceSleep & relaxation

Wood Betony

A European nervine (Stachys officinalis) traditionally used for tension headaches and nervous unease. Modern research covers its chemistry but not its clinical effects — there are no human trials.

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What the science says

Tension headache and nervous tension Limited evidence
A review of the genus Stachys documents wood betony's long traditional use for headache, anxiety and nervous complaints, but identifies no randomised or controlled clinical trials for these indications. The claim rests on herbal tradition alone.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity Limited evidence
Phytochemical and biological reviews of Stachys species describe phenylethanoid glycosides and flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory assays. These are in vitro findings without a demonstrated clinical consequence.
Sedative or sleep effect Limited evidence
No study has measured sleep latency, sleep quality or anxiety scales in people taking wood betony. Its use as a calming herb is traditional rather than tested.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo studied dose. Traditional use is 1–2 g of dried aerial parts as an infusion up to three times daily, or 2–6 mL of tincture; capsule labels typically list 300–500 mg.

SafetyLong traditional use with few reported problems, but no formal human safety data. It has traditional uterine-stimulant use and should be avoided in pregnancy; avoid also while breastfeeding. Large amounts may irritate the stomach. Do not confuse it with Pedicularis species, which are also sold as 'betony'; check the botanical name on the label.

How to take it

TimingTiming does not matter; traditional use spreads an infusion across the day.

With food?With food, since large amounts can irritate the stomach.

Worth knowingCheck the botanical name is Stachys officinalis - Pedicularis species are also sold as 'betony' and are a different plant with different effects.

Frequently asked questions

Does wood betony help headaches?

Wood betony (Stachys officinalis) has a long traditional use for tension headaches and nervous tension, but there are no human trials, so the evidence is limited to herbal tradition.

Is wood betony safe?

Wood betony has a long traditional record with few reported problems, but no formal human safety data. It has traditional uterine-stimulant use, so avoid it in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, and check the label says Stachys officinalis rather than a Pedicularis species also sold as 'betony'.

How much wood betony should I take?

There is no studied dose of wood betony. Traditional use is 1-2 g of dried herb as an infusion up to three times daily or 2-6 mL of tincture, taken with food because large amounts can irritate the stomach.

Scientific references

Genus Stachys-Phytochemistry, Traditional Medicinal Uses, and Future Perspectives
Pashova S, Karcheva-Bahchevanska D, Ivanov K — Molecules, 2024
Phytochemical and biological studies of Stachys species in relation to chemotaxonomy: a review
Tundis R, Peruzzi L, Menichini F — Phytochemistry, 2014

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