Verbena officinalis, native to Europe, is a perennial herb that grows up to one metre in height. In Austria, Vervain was traditionally drunk as a domestic herbal tea, used to treat infections, headaches and fevers. Topically, it was used as a natural remedy for bruises, skin infections, insect bites and eczema. The aerial parts of Vervain is said to be antibacterial, astringent and able to relieve pain. By applying Vervain directly to the skin, it is able to accelerate wounds healing, abscesses, burns and to relieve itching. A phytochemical study of Vervain identified flavonoids including luteolin, apigenin and pedalitin derivatives which showed antioxidant activity.