Lemon Verbena, Rectified

Product Details

Botanical name

Lippia citriodora, Aloysia triphylla, or Verbena triphylla

Extraction method / Source

Steam Distillation (Rectified) / Fresh Leaves

Aroma

Woodsy, fresh, sweet lemony

Note classification

Middle

Odor Intensity

3

Key constituents

Limonene, geraniol, nerol, sabinene and several trace constituents

Plant description

Botanical family: Verbenaceae

Lemon Verbena is a periennal shrub native to South America, and is now grown in parts of Europe and Africa. It produces fragrant, narrow, soft green leaves and small purple flowers, and can grow to a height of over 16 feet.

Regions of Production

France

Growing Practices

Cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides

History / Fun Facts

The lemon verbena plant is known by many other names, including Cedron, Lemon Beebush, Yerba Louisa and Lemon Louisa. It is believed that in the 1700's the plant was named after Marie Louisa, Princess of Panama, and later Queen of Spain. The Spanish brought the plant to Europe in the 18th Century, where it was primarily used as a tea and in perfume making.

Properties

Antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, digestive, febrifuge, hepatic, insecticide, sedative, stomachic, tonic (Althea Press, 2015)

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

Supports healthy liver function, including during alcohol-induced hangover. Helps soothe the respiratory tract, calm heart palpitations, and promotes restful sleep. Added to skin lotion or cream, Lemon Verbena softens the skin and reduces puffiness -- if used around the eyes, care must be taken not to get into the eyes. It is also thought to be aphrodisiac, and helps reduce barriers to intimacy. Lemon Verbena essential oil is widely used in the perfume industry.

Fragrant influences

Antidepressant, aphrodisiac, calming, lifts the spirits, refreshes mind and body.

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress, skin care lotions, creams and ointments.

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer, aromatherpay inhaler.

Blends well with

Bergamot, Elemi, Lavender, Lemon, Neroli, Orange, Palmarosa

Safety

May irritate highly sensitive skin. Avoid use before spending extended time in the sun.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Althea Press, Essential Oils: Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.

Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils, 2015. Floramed Publishing, The Woodlands, TX.

International Fragrance Research Association, http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/standards (January 5, 2016)

Schnaubelt, Kurt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Aromatherapy, 2011. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.