Lemony, bright, soothing — lemon verbena is the infusion for gentle evenings and peaceful moments. Less known than chamomile, it is nonetheless remarkable for its effects on the nervous system, digestion, and overall well-being.
Which Verbena Are We Talking About?
Be careful not to confuse them! Two plants are called "verbena" in French:
• Lemon verbena or scented verbena (Lippia citriodora, formerly Aloysia triphylla): native to South America, this is the one used in infusions. Its taste is fresh, lemony, and slightly floral. It is the star of this article.
• Common vervain (Verbena officinalis): a European medicinal plant, more bitter, without a lemony aroma, with different properties.
Lemon verbena was introduced to Europe in the 18th century by Spanish conquistadors and quickly became a prized garden plant and a popular infusion, particularly in France.
Phytochemical Composition of Verbena
Lemon verbena owes its aromas and virtues to a rich and specific composition:
• Citral (geranial + neral): the major component of essential oils, responsible for the intense lemony scent. Sedative, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Limonene: a terpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Verbascosides (acteoside): glycosylated phenylethanoids with powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties — the star molecule of verbena.
• Flavonoids: luteolin, apigenin, diosmetin — antioxidants with anxiolytic effects.
• Iridoids: with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
Benefits of Verbena Infusion
→ Soothing the Nervous System
Lemon verbena is recognized by the EMA (European Medicines Agency) for its traditional use in relieving mild nervous states and sleep disorders. Its flavonoids — notably apigenin and luteolin — interact with GABA receptors in the central nervous system, producing a mild and non-addictive sedative effect.
Unlike other natural sedatives, verbena does not cause daytime drowsiness and can be consumed during the day to manage stress without causing sleepiness.
→ Digestive Efficacy
Verbena is carminative, antispasmodic, and slightly choleretic (it stimulates bile production). In practice, a cup after a meal relieves bloating, intestinal cramps, nausea, and indigestion. The effect is rapid and gentle, with no side effects for the vast majority of people.
→ Recognized Anti-Inflammatory
The verbascosides in verbena are well-documented natural anti-inflammatories. Studies have shown their ability to inhibit COX-2, a key enzyme in the inflammatory cascade — the same mechanism as some medicinal anti-inflammatories. This opens interesting perspectives for mild joint pain and low-grade chronic inflammation.
→ Antioxidant
A comparative study classified verbena among plants with high antioxidant capacity, thanks to the combination of its verbascosides, flavonoids, and essential oils. These molecules protect cells from oxidative stress and help prevent premature aging.
→ Joint and Muscle Support
Some preliminary studies are exploring the effect of lemon verbena extracts on joint pain (particularly related to osteoarthritis). Verbascosides appear to reduce cartilage degradation in vitro. Verbena-based supplements are already marketed for this indication in some European countries.
→ Mild Anxiolytic Action
Beyond the simple subjective "relaxing effect," animal model studies have confirmed that verbena extracts significantly reduce anxious behaviors, without side effects on motor skills. In humans, pilot studies suggest a beneficial effect on sleep quality and a reduction in mild anxiety.
How to Prepare a Verbena Infusion?
Use water at approximately 85–90°C (do not boil to preserve the citral and delicate aromas). Use 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves per cup. Cover and steep for 7 to 10 minutes. The infusion will be a luminous pale yellow, with that irresistible lemony scent.
Verbena pairs wonderfully with lemon balm for a magnified soothing effect, with lavender for complete stress relief, or with honey and a few slices of ginger for a comforting winter drink.
Precautions
Lemon verbena is generally very well tolerated. In very large quantities, it could theoretically interact with sedative medications. Like any plant rich in essential oils, it should be used with caution during pregnancy (especially the first trimester). For young children, prefer slightly less concentrated infusions.
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Rarely in the spotlight but always true to its effect, verbena is an infusion that rewards those who take the time to discover it. A sip of lemony serenity, to enjoy every evening.
P.S.: And for series fans, it also protects against vampires! ;)