Lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora)

Lemon verbena is one of my favorite herbs to grow – just brushing the plant as you walk past it releases a wonderful lemony aroma that feel like Joy!

Lemon verbena, sometimes called vervain, is generally acknowledged to be the most strongly scented and intense of the lemon scented plants. The scent has moved writers to poetry and prose in an effort to describe its essence, which is both crisp and relaxing at the same time. Because of its scent, lemon verbena is used in making perfumes and toilet water, as well as a flavoring in baking, jelly and preserving. The flavor of lemon verbena has been likened to a cross between licorice and camphor, and it is widely used as an herbal flavoring to replace oregano, particularly in light protein dishes.

Tea made of lemon verbena has been used to soothe colon and stomach spasms, lower fevers and calm itching. It has a relaxing effect and can help ease muscle tensions. It has a delicious flavor for teas and cooking.

The licorice and camphor content do make the volatile oils stronger than most other lemon-scented herbs. Use it sparingly since the flavor is strong.

Certified organic.

1 oz dried herb