Rootwork

Lemon Verbena

Aloysia citrodora

VerbenaceaeSouth America (Argentina, Chile, Uruguay)

Description

overall appearance

Lemon verbena is a deciduous shrub growing 6-10 feet tall with an open, leggy growth habit and intensely lemon-scented foliage.

roots

Deep taproot system with spreading lateral roots adapted to Mediterranean-type climates with dry summers.

stem

Woody stems are angular and rough-textured, often becoming quite gnarled with age. Young stems are green and herbaceous.

leaves

Lance-shaped leaves are 2-4 inches long, arranged in whorls of three or opposite pairs. Leaves are pale green with prominent veining and rough texture.

flowers

Tiny white to pale purple flowers are arranged in loose terminal panicles. Flowers are small but numerous and attractive to butterflies.

fruits/seeds

Small nutlets split into two parts when ripe. Seeds are rarely produced in cultivation outside native range.

Active Compounds

Essential oils (citral, limonene, geraniol)Flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, quercetin)Phenolic acids (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid)Iridoid glycosides (verbenalin, hastatoside)TriterpenesVitamin C

Traditional Uses

  • Digestive ailments and stomach upset
  • Nervous tension and anxiety
  • Insomnia and sleep disorders
  • Fever reduction
  • Respiratory conditions
  • Skin conditions and wounds

Modern Applications

  • Natural calming and sleep aid
  • Digestive support and antispasmodic
  • Antioxidant supplementation
  • Aromatherapy and mood enhancement
  • Culinary flavoring and herbal teas

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Kidney disease (essential oils may be irritating)
  • Pregnancy in large medicinal doses (safe as culinary herb)
  • Severe liver disease

Side Effects

  • Generally very well-tolerated
  • Possible mild skin sensitivity in some individuals
  • Rare allergic reactions
  • Large doses may cause stomach upset

Drug Interactions

  • No significant interactions reported
  • May enhance effects of sedative medications
  • Generally considered very safe

Parts Used

  • Leaves (fresh or dried)
  • Flowering tops

Preparation Methods

1-2 tsp dried leaves per cup water, steep 5-10 minutes

1:5 ratio in 40% alcohol, 2-4 ml three times daily

Steam distilled for aromatherapy applications

Strong infusion added to bathwater for relaxation

Fresh leaves used in teas, desserts, and beverages

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Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.