What Is Bitter Vetch Herb Powder?
Bitter vetch (Vicia ervilia), also called ervil, is a small annual legume from the pea family. It is one of the earliest crops ever cultivated: archaeologists have found bitter vetch at Neolithic sites in the Near East and the Mediterranean, alongside early wheat, barley and lentils.
The plant has fine, feathery leaves, small pale flowers and short pods. Bitter vetch herb powder is made from the dried aerial parts of the plant, ground into a fine, earthy green powder. As the name says, it has a noticeably bitter, earthy taste.
Today bitter vetch is a rare and specialty botanical. It is used by herbalists and people who enjoy traditional Mediterranean plants, mostly in small amounts as part of herbal blends and infusions. The powder form makes it easy to measure and combine with other herbs.
In ancient Greece and Rome, bitter vetch was grown mainly as a fodder crop, and the Romans called it ervum. It is still cultivated on a small scale in parts of the Mediterranean, Turkey and the Middle East, where it is valued as a hardy plant that grows well in dry, poor soils.
Our bitter vetch herb powder contains only ground Vicia ervilia herb with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Bitter Vetch Herb Powder
- Infusion: Stir 1/2 teaspoon (about 1 g) into a cup (8 fl oz / 250 ml) of hot water, let it settle for a few minutes and drink, or steep in a fine tea filter and strain.
- Herbal blends: Use a small amount in blends with milder herbs such as mint, chamomile or lemon balm to balance the bitter taste.
- Start small: Because the taste is strong, begin with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
Safety
If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children. For human herbal use only, not for animal feed.
Read our full guide: How to use bitter vetch herb powder: a simple recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bitter vetch?
Bitter vetch, Vicia ervilia, is an ancient legume from the pea family, first cultivated in the Near East and Mediterranean thousands of years ago.
Is this powder made from the seeds?
No. This is an herb powder made from the dried aerial parts of the plant, not from the seeds.
What does bitter vetch powder taste like?
It is earthy and clearly bitter. Most people use it in small amounts mixed with other herbs.
Can I feed this to animals?
No. This product is sold for human herbal use only. Bitter vetch seeds are known to be unsuitable for some animals, especially pigs.
How should I store it?
Keep the powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place.
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