Lemon Verbena

A vibrant citrus aroma and ability to uplift the spirit while simultaneously calming the mind. It is a natural digestive tonic, easing indigestion, bloating, and nervous stomachs, while its refreshing scent promotes clarity, focus, and mental relaxation.

Uses

Digestive Aid: Historically, Lemon Verbena has been used in South America and Europe to relieve digestive issues such as indigestion, gas, and cramps. It was a staple in herbal teas to ease stomach discomfort and calm nervous digestion.

Stress and Anxiety: Traditionally, Lemon Verbena was also used to relieve anxiety and stress, thanks to its calming and uplifting scent. It was believed to help soothe the mind and promote emotional balance.

Fever and Cold Relief: In traditional folk medicine, Lemon Verbena was often used as a febrifuge (to reduce fevers) and to alleviate cold symptoms, such as congestion and cough.

Current Uses:

Mood Enhancer: Lemon Verbena is widely used today in aromatherapy for its ability to enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and promote mental clarity. Its uplifting citrus scent is favored in diffusers, massage oils, and bath soaks.

Anti-inflammatory: Modern studies have highlighted Lemon Verbena’s anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for joint pain and muscle soreness when used topically or as a tea.

Weight Management: Recent research suggests Lemon Verbena may support weight management by helping reduce appetite and improve digestion.

Skin Care: Lemon Verbena is also found in many skin care products for its antioxidant and astringent properties, helping to tone and revitalize the skin.

Cautions

Toxicity:

None expected when used in normal therapeutic doses. Lemon Verbena is considered a safe herb for most individuals.

Contraindications:

Sensitive Skin: In some cases, Lemon Verbena can cause skin irritation or dermatitis, particularly when applied topically in high concentrations or if the individual has sensitive skin.

Interactions:

None known in regular therapeutic doses. However, if using Lemon Verbena in combination with sedative medications, its calming effects may enhance sedation or drowsiness.

Known Chemical Constituents

Volatile Oils:

- Citral (geranial and neral): Provides a lemon scent with antibacterial and calming properties.
- Citronellal: Known for its calming and antimicrobial effects.
- Limonene: A mood-lifting compound with antioxidant properties.

Flavonoids:

- Luteolin and Apigenin: Powerful antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.

Tannins:

- Contribute to Lemon Verbena’s astringent properties, helping to tone tissues and support skin health.

Polyphenols:

- Caffeic Acid and Rosmarinic Acid: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting both digestive and immune health.

Botanical Description

Growth Habit:
Lemon Verbena is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 2 to 3 meters (6 to 10 feet) tall. It has a woody base and produces long, arching branches covered with fragrant leaves.

Leaves:
The lance-shaped leaves are arranged in whorls of three (hence the name triphylla), and they emit a strong lemon scent when crushed. The leaves are bright green and have a slightly rough texture.

Flowers:
Small clusters of pale purple or white flowers bloom from mid to late summer, although the flowers are often secondary to the strong lemon fragrance of the leaves.

Fun Facts

Lemon Verbena was brought to Europe from South America by Spanish explorers in the 17th century, where it became popular as a perfume ingredient due to its fresh citrus scent and and has since been a key player in fragrance and culinary applications, from teas to desserts.

Parts Used

Aerial

Harvest

Timing:
Lemon Verbena is best harvested during its peak growing season, which typically occurs in mid-summer to early autumn. The leaves should be picked when they are vibrant green and just before the plant begins to flower, as this is when the volatile oils and aromatic properties are at their strongest.

Method:

The leaves and young stems are harvested by carefully snipping or cutting them from the plant, usually in the morning, when the oils are most potent.
To encourage more growth, prune the plant lightly rather than stripping it completely, leaving enough leaves to support its energy.

Drying:
After harvesting, the leaves can be air-dried in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and medicinal properties. Once dry, they should be stored in airtight containers for future use.

Preparations

Infusions/Teas: Used to soothe digestive issues and calm the mind.

Tinctures: Concentrated extracts for stress relief and digestive support.

Essential Oil: Used in aromatherapy for uplifting the spirit and promoting mental clarity.

Baths: Lemon Verbena can be added to bathwater to promote relaxation and ease muscle tension.

Topical Applications: Often included in creams and lotions for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Sacred Rituals

Historically, Lemon Verbena was also associated with rituals to enhance dreams and mental clarity, helping practitioners connect with their inner wisdom and intuition.

Affirmations

“I am clear and joyful. Like the lemon verbena, I radiate positivity and mental clarity.”

Spiritual Associations

Lemon Verbena can be used in cleansing rituals to purify the home and promote emotional balance. It is also believed to enhance dreams and mental clarity, supporting spiritual practices like meditation and introspection.

Functions