Lippia (Lippia alba)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Verbenaceae
• Common Names: Bushy Matgrass, Mexican Oregano, Pitiona, Lemon Balm Verbena
• Parts Used: Leaves, flowers

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Description

Lippia alba is an aromatic shrub native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It is widely used in traditional medicine for its calming, digestive, and antimicrobial properties. The plant’s lemony fragrance makes it a popular herb in teas and natural remedies for relaxation and gastrointestinal support.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional Latin American and Caribbean medicine for sleep disorders, anxiety, and digestive issues.
• Employed as a natural sedative and antispasmodic.
• Traditionally used as a tea for respiratory ailments and fevers.
• Applied externally to soothe skin irritations and infections.

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Constituents

• Essential oils (citral, limonene, myrcene, carvone)
• Flavonoids
• Polyphenols
• Alkaloids
• Tannins

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Actions

• Nervine
• Carminative
• Antispasmodic
• Digestive tonic
• Antimicrobial
• Expectorant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Nervous System Support:
Lippia is traditionally used for stress relief, anxiety, and insomnia.

2. Digestive Health:
Acts as a carminative, relieving bloating, cramps, and indigestion.

3. Respiratory Relief:
Used as an expectorant to clear mucus and relieve coughs.

4. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Benefits:
Has been traditionally applied to wounds and infections.

5. Menstrual and Uterine Health:
Used to ease menstrual cramps and regulate cycles.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to affected areas.

Aromatherapy:

• Essential oil can be diffused for relaxation and respiratory support.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Hypotension: May lower blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
• Photosensitivity: Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and calming; supports digestion, relaxation, and respiratory function.
• South American Herbal Medicine: Used as a digestive tonic and sedative.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Kapha.

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Combinations

• For Relaxation: Combine with passionflower and chamomile.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and peppermint.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with thyme and eucalyptus.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected when aromatic oils are strongest.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried leaves in airtight containers away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Lippia alba’s calming, antimicrobial, and digestive benefits, supporting its traditional uses.

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Lippia remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for relaxation, digestive support, and respiratory health.