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Lemon Verbena (Lippia citriodora syn. Aloysia triphylla)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Verbenaceae
  • Common Names: Lemon Verbena, Cedrón, Yerba Louisa
  • Parts Used: Leaves

Description

Lippia citriodora is a fragrant, deciduous shrub native to South America, widely cultivated for its citrus-scented leaves. It has been traditionally used for its calming, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular herb for teas and therapeutic applications.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in South American and European herbal traditions for digestion and nervous system support.
  • Employed as a carminative to relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion.
  • Traditionally used as a mild sedative for stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
  • Applied externally for joint and muscle pain relief.

Constituents

  • Essential oils (citral, limonene, verbascoside)
  • Flavonoids
  • Triterpenoids
  • Polyphenols

Actions

  • Carminative
  • Nervine
  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Mild sedative
  • Antispasmodic

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Lemon verbena is commonly used to ease bloating, cramps, and indigestion.

2. Nervous System Support:
Acts as a gentle nervine, helping to reduce anxiety, restlessness, and mild insomnia.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Traditionally used for joint pain, muscle tension, and headaches.

4. Antioxidant and Immune Support:
Contains polyphenols that protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.

5. Respiratory Support:
Used as an expectorant to clear congestion and ease coughs.

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):

  • Fresh leaves applied to sore muscles and joints for relief.

Aromatherapy:

  • Essential oil can be diffused or used in massage oils for relaxation.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD): May worsen symptoms in sensitive individuals.
  • Photosensitivity: May increase sensitivity to sunlight when used in essential oil form.

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 general wellness herb.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Kapha.

Combinations

  • For Digestive Support: Combine with fennel and peppermint.
  • For Nervous System Support: Combine with lemon balm and chamomile.
  • For Respiratory Health: Combine with thyme and eucalyptus.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are best collected in summer 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.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Lippia citriodora’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits, supporting its traditional uses.

Lemon Verbena remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestive health, relaxation, and inflammation relief.