There’s something irresistibly uplifting about the fresh, bright aroma of Lemon Verbena essential oil. Beloved by aromatherapists, this citrusy oil brings sunshine into every blend it graces. Across cultures, lemon verbena has been celebrated not just as a medicinal or culinary herb, but as a plant that elevates mood and enhances well-being…
History & Folklore
Lemon verbena (scientifically known as Aloysia citrodora or Lippia citriodora - both are species within the verbenaceae family - we use the latter) is a perennial shrub native to South America, particularly Argentina, Paraguay and Chile. Indigenous tribes valued the plant long before European exploration - when Spanish explorers encountered the plant in the 17th century, they were struck by its powerful lemon scent. They brought it back to Europe, where it quickly became a favourite in herb gardens across Spain, France and eventually the British Isles. By the Victorian era, Lemon Verbena was firmly established in English gardens, cherished for its fragrance and its use in teas, perfumes and potpourri.
Lemon verbena carries a rich tapestry of folklore from the regions where it has been used for centuries:
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Protection and cleansing: In traditional South American and European folk practices, fresh sprigs were hung in homes to ward off negative energy and attract light, freshness and positivity.
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Relaxation aid: Tea made from lemon verbena leaves was traditionally consumed to soothe the mind and aid sleep, long before modern herbal science explored its calming properties.
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Love and happiness: In French folklore, dried lemon verbena was sometimes placed under pillows to inspire dreams of love.
The Art of Extraction
Lemon verbena essential oil can be obtained by traditional steam distillation of the leaves and tender shoots of the plant, while solvent extraction or CO₂ extraction are used to produce richer extracts such as absolutes. The Lippia citriodora that we use is steam distilled from the leaves of the plant.
This method draws out the plant’s volatile aromatic compounds to yield a true essential oil.
By contrast, solvent extraction produces a concrete, which is then processed further to create an absolute – a concentrated, richly aromatic extract prized in perfumery.
CO₂ extraction uses supercritical carbon dioxide under high pressure to extract aromatic compounds without heat. This method preserves delicate constituents, yielding a highly fragrant, true-to-nature extract that reflects the fresh, green citrus character of lemon verbena.
All methods produce an aroma that is vibrant and evocative of lemon zest, with herbaceous, grassy undertones. Because lemon verbena yields relatively little oil by steam distillation, absolutes and CO₂ extracts are often preferred in perfumery, while the essential oil remains valued for aromatherapy and traditional use.
Best uses
Lemon verbena essential oil is a versatile tool, and its naturally uplifting aroma can help support a cheerful mindset. When you’re feeling low, sluggish, or overwhelmed, diffuse a few drops in your living space or workspace to promote clarity and positivity.
Fresh lemon verbena leaves are widely used in herbal teas. The fragrance and taste are reminiscent of lemon with a subtle sweet finish, perfect for a calming evening infusion.
And to have a sparklingly gorgeous scented home, couple lemon verbena essential oil with white vinegar to create a glass cleaner, or pop a few drops into your washing machine for laundry that smells like sunshine!
Botanical Notes
Lemon verbena essential oil is renowned for its zesty, fresh, uplifting scent. Its aroma features:
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Top notes: Bright, citrusy lemon with hints of lime and verbena zest
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Middle notes: Fresh, herbaceous green elements reminiscent of freshly cut leaves
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Base undertones: Slightly sweet, clean, grassy nuances
Look out for our latest sunshine blend - coming soon!