Lemon Verbena has been cultivated in Europe since the 17th century. 

Native to the Andes Mountains in South America, it has been used as an ingredient for cooking and folk medicine since ancient times. The Inca boiled the leafy stems to make a medicinal tea as a trusted botanical for reducing fevers and treating a variety of digestive disorders. In Argentina lemon verbena tea is used as an antidote for the bites of poisonous animals.

In Pagan times, Lemon Verbena was placed under one’s pillow to keep away bad dreams. It was a traditional herb used for bringing luck as it was said to convert misfortune to good luck. It was also used for cleansing, protecting, uncrossing and for attracting love. It was also used as a strengthening herb, adding potency to anything to which it is added for a positive effect.

Lemon Verbena is yet another cleansing and protecting herb that crosses over into a natural pest repellent. It can be grown and used to keep mosquitoes away due to its strong, lemony aroma covering up the human scent detected by female mosquitoes.

Lemon Verbena's healing properties bring health benefits to the skin. The leaves can be applied as a topical poultice where its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties can help in healing varicose veins, acne, boils and external hemorrhoids. 

To make a poultice, take a handful of Lemon Verbena, chop them into small pieces on a cutting board and transfer to a mortar and pestle to crush to a pulp. As you chop and mash or blend, the herbs will release their natural juices so that the leaves become softer. Spread the crushed herbs onto the desired area of the skin or wrap the area with a layer of gauze or muslin to hold the paste in place. You can also apply a layer of plastic wrap to the outside of the finished poultice to prevent the juices from leaking.

Lemon Verbena Potpourri is another way to enjoy the fresh fragrance of Lemon Verbena in the home. Mix together the dried peel of 1 lemon, 2 cups dried lemon verbena leaves, 1 cup dried chamomile flowers, 6 inches of cinnamon stick

and 2 to 3 drops of Lemon Verbena Essential Oil of lemon verbena

Place in a bowl to scent the room (cover when not in use to retain the scent) or place in a drawstring bag to hang in your wardrobe.

Lemon Verbena Essential Oil can also be added to natural Jojoba Oil or Cocoa Butter to nourish the skin. A few drops can be made into an aromatic hydrosol that creates a light mist to refresh the face and skin with its antibacterial and astringent properties.