The lemon verbena plant is another gift of the American flora, tomato, potato, and many more. In Europe, lemon verbena has been cultivated since the 18th century. Some people confuse lemon verbena and vervain; however, these are different plants, which belong to totally different botanical families.
Lemon Verbena Scientific Facts
- Other names: Herb Louise, Aloysia citriodora L.
- French: Verveine odorante.
- Spanish: Hierba luisa.
- Environment: Native to Chile and Peru, it has been naturalized in Europe, where lemon verbena is cultivated as an ornamental and aromatic plant.
- Description: Small shrub of the Verbenaceae family, growing up to two meters high. It has lanceolate, rough leaves which have an intense lemon scent when rubbed. Its flowers are violet or lilac in color and grow in bouquets.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves.
- Dried Lippia Citriodora lemon verbena leaves imported straight from France.
- Caffeine free, this verbena has wonderful relaxing properties for the nervous system and is also known to help with digestion and be an endocrine or thyroid tonic.
- Great in infusions, teas, tisanes and alcohols. Can also be used in fruit cups and salads or as an ingredient in jellies and puddings.
Healing Properties and Indications
The whole plant, and especially its leaves, contains an essential oil that consists of more than one hundred substances, among which the most outstanding are citral, limonene, and caryophyllene. This essence gives the plant digestive, antispasmodic, and carminative (promotes gas expulsion from the digestive system) properties. Lemon verbena is recommended in the following cases:
- Digestive disorders: acute dyspepsia (indigestion or upset stomach), chronic dyspepsia (slow digestion), and flatulence.
- Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), gall bladder, and kidney colic due to its antispasmodic properties.
- It is also recommended for different types of nervous system disorders, especially for anxiety, since in many cases, the results achieved are better than those of chemical tranquilizers, not causing side effects as the latter do.
Frequently Asked Question
Which health advantages does the use of lemon verbena primarily provide?
The plant offers a range of health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile. It contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential oils that contribute to its potential health-promoting properties.
How does lemon verbena support digestive health?
Can lemon verbena aid in weight management?
Yes, it may aid in weight management because it can boost metabolism and promote fat oxidation. Additionally, its natural diuretic properties may help reduce water retention and bloating.
Does lemon verbena have benefits for skin health?
The plant contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and UV damage. It may also support collagen production, improving skin elasticity and overall complexion.
How does lemon verbena contribute to immune health?
The plant is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help strengthen the immune system by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Regular consumption may support immune function and enhance the body’s ability to fight infections.
Can lemon verbena help alleviate stress and anxiety?
Yes, it possesses natural calming properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Its soothing aroma and compounds like verbascoside may promote relaxation and improve mood.
Is lemon verbena beneficial for respiratory health?
The plant contains compounds with expectorant and bronchodilator properties, potentially useful for respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs. It may help loosen mucus, soothe airways, and ease breathing.
Does lemon verbena have anti-inflammatory effects?
Yes, it contains anti-inflammatory compounds like verbascoside and luteolin, which can help reduce inflammation. This property may benefit conditions like arthritis, muscle soreness, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Can lemon verbena support cardiovascular health?
According to scientific research, the plant may improve cardiovascular health by decreasing cholesterol, decreasing blood pressure, and enhancing blood circulation. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may also protect against heart disease.
Are there any precautions or potential side effects associated with consuming lemon verbena?
The plant is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding herbal supplements or extracts to your routine, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking medications.
How to use Lemon Verbena
- Infusion with 30g of leaves per liter of water. Drink a hot cup after each meal. This infusion has a delightful flavor.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. It would be best to not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 459. Print. [lemon verbena plant]
- European Medicines Agency. (2010). Assessment report on Aloysia citriodora Palau, folium.
- Jovel, E. M., Cabrita, L., Figueiredo, A. C., & Cunha, A. P. (2019). Chemical composition and biological activities of Aloysia citriodora Palau essential oils: An overview. Molecules, 24(16), 2983.
- Jouad, H., Haloui, M., Rhiouani, H., El Hilaly, J., & Eddouks, M. (2001). Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used for the treatment of diabetes, cardiac and renal diseases in the North centre region of Morocco (Fez–Boulemane). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 77(2-3), 175-182.
- Martínez‐Rodríguez, R., Micó‐Carreras, L., & Romero‐Cortés, T. (2020). Evaluation of lemon verbena (Lippia citriodora H.B.K.) dietary supplementation effect on performance, gut morphology, intestinal microbiota and blood metabolites of broiler chickens. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 104(6), 1957-1968.
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- Ojeda, M. J., Kaur, G., & Sarma, N. (2020). Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora) Extracts: A Review of Their Uses in Medicine, Food Preservation, and Environmentally Sustainable Chemical Processes. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 8(38), 14155-14166.
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- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (2022). Lemon Verbena. [Online]. Available: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/lemon-verbena.
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API