Organic Lemon Verbena Herbal Tea — The quintessential evening infusion

Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora, also known as beebrush or lemon-scented verbena) is a shrub native to South America, introduced to Europe in the 18th century and naturalized in Mediterranean regions. Its intense, fresh, lemony fragrance, released at the slightest touch of the leaves, makes it one of the most appreciated herbal teas in traditional phytotherapy. Herberry offers you dried lemon verbena leaves, certified organic.

Botanical presentation

Aloysia citrodora (syn. Lippia citriodora) is a deciduous shrub of the Verbenaceae family that can reach 1 to 3 meters in height in mild climates. Its light green, slightly rough, lanceolate leaves are arranged in whorls of 3. They release a very intense lemon scent when crushed. Small, pale mauve flowers bloom in July-August. The plant is frost-sensitive and must be protected in cold regions.

The leaves contain an essential oil rich in neral and geranial (citral), limonene, and caryophyllene, as well as flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin), iridoids (verbascoside, agnuside), and phenylpropanoids.

Aromatic and taste profile

The lemon verbena infusion offers a slightly golden to greenish liquor with great clarity. Its aroma is bright, fresh, and lemony, more intense and refined than that of lemon balm. On the palate, the flavor is delicately lemony, very low in bitterness, with a pleasant aromatic persistence. It is one of the most appreciated herbal teas by everyone, including those not accustomed to herbal infusions. It can be enjoyed hot or as a cold infusion.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves (approximately 1.5 to 2 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, approximately 90°C (be careful not to boil to preserve the volatile lemon aromas)
• Infusion: 5 to 8 minutes, covered
• Strain and enjoy warm — also excellent as an iced tea
• Frequency: 2 to 3 cups per day

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice
• Not recommended for people suffering from gastritis or gastric ulcers (the plant can be irritating to mucous membranes in high doses)
• Not recommended for people suffering from severe kidney failure
• Not recommended for children under 6 years old
• Do not exceed recommended usage amounts
• Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Is Herberry's verbena certified organic?

Yes, these lemon verbena leaves are certified organic, free of pesticides or synthetic chemical inputs.

What is the difference between lemon verbena and common verbena?

These two names refer to the same plant: Aloysia citrodora. In French, it is commonly called "verveine citronnée" (lemon verbena). "Common verbena" (Verbena officinalis), however, is a completely different plant, of the same family but without the lemon scent, with distinct traditional uses.

Can lemon verbena be consumed cold?

Yes, verbena is delicious as a cold infusion. Prepare a normal infusion, let it cool, and refrigerate. The lemon fragrance intensifies when cold, and the result is very refreshing in summer.

Can verbena be mixed with other plants?

Yes, verbena is an ideal base for blends. It pairs very well with lemon balm (a perfect lemon duo), lavender, chamomile, or linden to create personalized homemade herbal teas.

How should I store my bag of verbena?

Keep away from direct light, heat, and humidity. The lemon scent of verbena is very volatile; close the bag tightly immediately after use. Consume preferably within 12 months of opening.

Discover other Herberry herbal teas: See the full Herberry range