Organic Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citriodora)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

Family: Verbenaceae

Common Names: Lemon Beebrush, Lemon-Scented Verbena, Herb Louisa

Botanical Description: Lemon Verbena is a deciduous perennial shrub that can grow up to 6 to 10 feet tall in warm climates. It has long, slender, lance-shaped leaves that are bright green and emit a strong, lemony fragrance when crushed. The plant produces small, delicate white or pale lavender flowers that bloom in the late summer. The leaves are the primary part used for their aromatic and medicinal properties.

Habitat and Cultivation: Native to South America, particularly Argentina and Chile, Lemon Verbena thrives in warm, sunny climates. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Lemon Verbena is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can be grown in gardens or containers. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual or brought indoors during the winter.

Parts Used: Leaves

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Lemon Verbena has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb. Introduced to Europe in the 17th century, it quickly became popular for its refreshing lemon scent and flavor. In South American traditional medicine, it was used to treat digestive issues, colds, and anxiety. In Europe, it was often added to herbal teas and potpourri and was believed to bring relaxation and promote pleasant dreams.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Cooling, drying
• Taste: Sweet, lemony, slightly bitter

Medicinal Actions:

• Calmative/Nervine: Calms the nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting relaxation.
• Carminative: Eases digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and indigestion.
• Antispasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms and cramps.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress and supports overall health.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the digestive system.
• Digestive Tonic: Stimulates appetite and aids in digestion.

System Affinities:

• Nervous System: Lemon Verbena is well-known for its calming effects, making it a popular remedy for stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It helps to soothe the nervous system and promote relaxation.
• Digestive System: The herb is used to relieve digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. It can also stimulate appetite and improve overall digestion.
• Respiratory System: Lemon Verbena is sometimes used to treat colds, coughs, and other respiratory conditions due to its mild anti-inflammatory properties.
• Immune System: The antioxidant properties of Lemon Verbena support immune function and help protect the body from oxidative stress.

Active Compounds:

• Citral (Geranial and Neral): The primary component responsible for the strong lemon scent and flavor, citral has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Verbascoside: A phenylpropanoid glycoside with potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
• Limonene: A terpene with mood-enhancing, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-supportive properties.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.

Uses:

1. Stress and Anxiety Relief: Lemon Verbena is commonly used in teas, tinctures, and essential oils to reduce stress, anxiety, and nervous tension. It promotes relaxation and a sense of calm.
2. Digestive Support: The herb is effective in treating digestive discomfort, including indigestion, bloating, and gas. It can be taken as a tea or added to culinary dishes for its carminative effects.
3. Sleep Aid: Due to its calming properties, Lemon Verbena is often used to promote restful sleep and treat insomnia. It can be consumed as a tea before bedtime.
4. Cold and Flu Relief: Lemon Verbena’s mild anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in treating colds, coughs, and other respiratory conditions. It helps to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
5. Culinary Uses: Lemon Verbena is a popular culinary herb, used to flavor teas, desserts, marinades, and salads. Its refreshing lemon flavor enhances both sweet and savory dishes.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Lemon Verbena is generally considered safe, but it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding, particularly in medicinal amounts.
• Skin Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using Lemon Verbena essential oil topically. It should be diluted before application.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): People with GERD or acid reflux should use Lemon Verbena with caution, as its citrus-like properties might aggravate symptoms.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated the anti-anxiety and sedative effects of Lemon Verbena, supporting its traditional use in reducing stress and promoting relaxation .
2. Research in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the herb’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, validating its use in treating digestive and respiratory conditions .
3. Another study in Food Chemistry explored the antimicrobial properties of Lemon Verbena, confirming its effectiveness in fighting certain bacterial and fungal infections.