Lemon Verbena

Identity

Common Name

Lemon Verbena

Scientific Name

Aloysia citrodora

Botanical Family

Verbenaceae

Native Region

South America (Chile, Argentina, Peru)

Cultivation Regions

South America, Mediterranean, France, North Africa

Plant Parts Used

Leaves

Synonyms

Aloysia triphylla, Verbena, Cedrón

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

An aromatic deciduous shrub up to 2-3 m tall with narrow, lance-shaped, lightly toothed leaves arranged in whorls of three or four, and slender spikes of tiny pale-lilac tubular flowers. The leaves release an intense lemon scent when bruised.

Historical Background

Native to South America, lemon verbena was brought to Europe by Spanish and Portuguese explorers in the 17th century and quickly became a beloved garden and infusion herb in France and the Mediterranean, prized for its intense, lingering lemon fragrance and reputation as a gentle digestive and calming cup.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous South American use; introduced to Europe in the 17th-18th century and adopted by European herbalists.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bright lemon, sweet, floral

Tea Information

Research Summary

Lemon verbena has a long tradition as a digestive and calming infusion. A few small human trials suggest modest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but clinical evidence is limited and it is not a treatment for any condition.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources