Parts Most Frequently Used: Leaves, Flowering Tops

Flavors/Temps: Sour, Cool

Caution: Considered safe.

History/Folklore: Modern research confirms that lemon verbena contains unique constituents that make it highly beneficial for overall health. The dried leaves are a powerful tonic to organs and metabolic processes and the essential oil contains high levels of antioxidants. Research has also shown that a tea made from the leaves is rich in polyphenolic compounds that support your immunity.

Lemon verbena is a powerful antioxidant and studies have shown that it significantly lowers C-reactive proteins produced by the liver. Levels of C-reactive protein in the liver is a blood test marker for inflammation in the body.

Lemon verbena extract combined with omega-3 fatty acid (such as fish oil) has been shown to be an effective treatment for significantly reducing the pain and stiffness associated with joint pain within 3-4 weeks, making the combination a possible alternative for treating conditions associated with joint pain and stiffness.

While more research is needed, some studies are indicating that lemon verbena has the ability to improve metabolic disturbances caused by obesity. The high levels of polyphenols in the plant are known for their antioxidant properties which reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with obesity. Another study showed that 500 milligrams per day of lemon verbena blended with hibiscus resulted in increased feelings of fullness decreasing the desire to eat more as well as reducing blood pressure.

A study published by the European Journal of Applied Physiology indicated clear positive results of lemon verbena extract reducing muscular damage caused by intense or endurance exercise without blocking the body’s ability for cellular adaptation to increased exercise.

Lemon verbena is potent, a little goes a long way. It is often infused into oil, vinegar, butter, or water and then added to dishes and beverages for its popular minty-citrus flavor. It is an ingredient in some liqueurs.

Lemon verbena makes a wonderful bath wash, soap and perfume. The leaves have been placed in finger bowls at dinner parties as a method for scenting and cleaning ones fingers during a meal. It is also used in cleaning products for its fresh clean scent and antiseptic properties.

A compress made of lemon verbena can be used to treat puffy eyes.

The essential oil made from lemon verbena is also renowned for its healing properties. It too is used to treat a variety of ailments ranging from joint aches, depression, insomnia, anxiety, and palpitations.

Lemon verbena was introduced to England in the 1700s. The plant’s common name, Herb Louisa, derives from Maria Louisa, the wife of the King Charles IV of Spain.

Lemon verbena, lemon balm, and vervain are three totally different plants that are often confused for one another as their names all contain the word “lemon.” Lemon verbena and lemon balm are from two entirely different plant families (Lemon balm belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Lemon verbena belongs to the Verbenaceae family.) Vervain is a member of the Verbenaceae family and is sometimes called “common verbena” and Lemon verbena is commonly called “vervain.”

Lemon verbena is considered the strongest and most intensely lemon scented of the lemon plants. It is acknowledged as being both crisp or stimulating and relaxing at the same time. Its flavor is described as being a cross between licorice and camphor and is used in cooking as a substitute for oregano. When freshly cut the minty-citrus scent is quite powerful and will mellow as the plant is dried.