Speedwell ~ Veronica persica

Common Speedwell ~ Veronica persica

This dainty blue gem has started to creep across my lawn, much to my delight. I’m continuously blown away by the diversity of (so called) ‘weeds’ that appear in my garden. Over the years many different wild edible weeds have turned up & made themselves at home in my wild garden, me looking on with open arms. This is the first year that I’ve discovered Speedwell & I’m delighted.

There are as many as 500 species of Speedwell. The one that I find most commonly in New Zealand, is the Veronica persica. Apparently it gets it’s name from St Veronica who bathed Jesus Christ’s face as he was being carried to the cross, and the image of the speedwell flower was left on her cloth...

The common name ‘Speedwell’ is similar to the old sayings of ‘speed you well’ or ‘God speed’, meaning to wish someone well, success, or prosperity on their journey. It’s also claimed that it got it’s name because it spreads so quickly, or because it makes you well so quickly... so many options with this name!

Speedwell’s leaves, stalks & flowers are all edible, although slightly bitter. Pick when young. The flowers make gorgeous decorations, if you have the time to carefully pick them all! Otherwise add the whole leafy stem to your salads, pestos, smoothies, juices, teas, or cook it.

Medicinally Speedwell is known to improve overall health, clearing the mind and nourishing the body.

Another nickname of Speedwell is ‘sore eyes’ as it’s often used to treat sore eyes and also improve eyesight, either by applying to the eyes as a lotion or by drinking the tea.

Speedwell is often used to treat coughs, particularly where there is a lot of phlegm, as it helps to remove excess mucus. The tea can also help to clear respiratory congestion and has been used to treat bronchitis, asthma & whooping cough.

Speedwell is also known to act as a muscle relaxant and can ease aching neck and shoulders. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it helpful in soothing irritated tissues.

Topically Speedwell can be been applied to cuts, bruises, inflammation, rashes and wounds to promote healing. Its antiseptic properties help prevent infection.