Lippia citriodora Lemon Verbena |
Lemon verbena tea made from the leaves
of the plant is tonic, calming and sedative, and can be used to treat nausea,
palpitations and flatulence. Essential oil distilled from leaves is used
as a flavouring in cakes, drinks, stuffings and desserts, in pot-pourri,
and formerly in perfumes (largely replaced by lemon-grass oil). Hot leaf
pulp is effective against toothache. However, caution should be exercised
as large doses or prolonged use can cause internal irritation.
Lemon verbena prefers fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. It is frost-shy so, in temperate regions, it should be grown under glass. Cuttings are taken in summer, and new plants should be propagated every few years as older plants become thin and more sensitive to cold. |