- Region
- South America
- Origin
- South America
South America · Herb · № 378
Aloysia citrodora
Herb · South America
Lemon verbena
Aloysia citrodora
Traditionally attributed effects: relaxing, helps you fall asleep.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (2)
- Natural skin and hair care: Always test the water temperature before putting your feet in. Lemon verbena oil can make the skin sensitive to sunlight.
- Curanderismo of northern Peru: Generally safe as a tea; not in large amounts with kidney complaints.
Preparation
Internal: in a sleep tea; external: essential oil in foot bath.
Use in traditions
The plant comes from Argentina, Chile and Peru, where as cedrón or hierba luisa it is a common tea for stomach ache, restlessness and sleeplessness. The Spanish brought it to Europe in the 17th century, where it went into perfumes and liqueurs as a fragrant plant. In herbal magic associated with preventing nightmares, purifying the home, encouraging love and lifting the mood.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
Fresh lemon scent; as a tea traditionally used to relax and after meals.
Preparation and amount
Internal: leaf in a sleep tea. External: lemon verbena oil in a refreshing footbath (see the recipes).
Caution: Always test the water temperature before putting your feet in. Lemon verbena oil can make the skin sensitive to sunlight.
Curanderismo of northern Peru
Attributed effects
Cedrón for low mood, nerves, sleeplessness and stomach complaints.
Preparation and amount
Steep the leaves briefly, often with toronjil, fennel and chamomile.
Caution: Generally safe as a tea; not in large amounts with kidney complaints.
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Prevents nightmares, purifies the house, promotes love, makes cheerful.
Herbal magic and rituals
Attributed effects
In herbal magic associated with purification, love and protection against nightmares.
Preparation and amount
Lemon verbena comes from South America, where in Peru, Argentina and Chile it is called cedrón or hierba luisa and drunk as an after-dinner tea. The Spanish brought the plant to Europe in the seventeenth century, and in France verveine became a classic evening tea.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)Steam and bath