Lemon Verbena
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:ViajeroExtraviado" title="User:ViajeroExtraviado">ViajeroExtraviado</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameLemon Verbena
Scientific NameAloysia citrodora
Common NamesLemon Verbena, Lemon Beebrush
Plant FamilyVerbenaceae
Natural HabitatNative to Argentina, Chile, and Peru, it thrives in warm, temperate climates. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, often found in dry, rocky areas in its natural range.
Parts Usedleaf,flower
Medicinal Actionsnervine,sedative,carminative,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant
Traditional UsesTraditionally used as a digestive aid to relieve indigestion, bloating, and cramps. It is also valued for its calming properties, often used as a mild sedative to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. Additionally, it has been used to alleviate cold symptoms and fevers.
Active Constituentscitral, limonene, geraniol, verbascoside, linalool
Preparation Methodsinfusion,essential_oil,powder
Contraindications & WarningsMay cause photosensitivity in some individuals, especially when used topically or in high doses. Individuals with kidney disease should use it with caution due to potential diuretic effects.
Cultivation NotesPrefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is sensitive to frost and often grown in pots or overwintered indoors in colder climates. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more leaves.
Raritycommon
Description
Lemon Verbena is a deciduous shrub known for its intensely lemon-scented leaves. The leaves are lanceolate, bright green, and slightly rough to the touch, growing in whorls of three, and it produces small, delicate pale purple or white flowers.
