Picking vervain in the Netherlands is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon—whether alone or with loved ones. The fresh air, the satisfaction of gathering your own herbs, and the subtle fragrance of vervain make it a simple but rewarding activity. Once home, you can dry the leaves for tea, use the flowers for decoration, or even mix up a refreshing cocktail.
Ideas for using vervain:
- Dry the leaves for a calming tea: steep 1 tsp dried vervain in hot water for 5 minutes, add honey if desired.
- Brighten up a room by placing fresh vervain stems in a small vase—their delicate purple flowers add a rustic touch.
- Make a vervain gin fizz: muddle a few fresh leaves with 50ml gin, 20ml lemon juice, and 10ml simple syrup. Shake with ice, strain, and top with soda water.
For a creative twist, try infusing vervain into syrup (simmer equal parts water and sugar with a handful of leaves) to drizzle over desserts or stir into sparkling water. The herb’s mild, slightly bitter flavor pairs well with citrus or honey, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Whether you’re sipping, decorating, or mixing, vervain brings a little bit of the outdoors inside.