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Lippia citriodora
30-80€ / 10ml
Lemon verbena (Lippia citriodora) is native to South America, introduced to Europe by the Spanish in the 18th century. In France, it is grown in the south and used for digestive teas. Lemon verbena essential oil is one of the most expensive on the market (30-80 EUR/10ml) because the distillation yield is extremely low: it takes 5 to 8 tons of leaves to produce 1 liter of essential oil. This is why it is very often adulterated -- cut with lemongrass or litsea cubeba (much cheaper).
Lemon verbena contains citrals (like litsea) but also unique sesquiterpenes that give it superior anti-inflammatory and antidepressive power compared to litsea. Preliminary studies have shown its action on serotonin receptors. It is the reference 'anti-blues' essential oil, but its price limits daily use.
Les propriétés listées reposent sur des études in vitro et/ou un usage traditionnel. Sauf mention contraire, elles n'ont pas été validées par des essais cliniques humains rigoureux. Ces informations ne constituent pas un avis médical.
Anti-inflammatory
Traditional use
Powerful calming
Traditional use
Antidepressant
Traditional use
Lemon verbena is reserved for uses where its superior effectiveness justifies the price: mild depression, chronic inflammation, anxious insomnia. For daily mosquito repellent or relaxation, litsea cubeba is more economical. Photosensitizing and irritating, it should be diluted to max 1% on the skin. In pure olfaction (inhaling from the bottle), it is immediately soothing.
Adapté à la diffusion atmosphérique. 3-5 gouttes, 15-20 min maximum par heure. Ne pas diffuser en continu.
Diluer dans une huile végétale (5-10%). ATTENTION : ne pas s'exposer au soleil dans les 8h suivant l'application.
Non recommandé par voie orale. Utiliser exclusivement par voie cutanée ou en diffusion.
Les huiles essentielles suivantes se combinent particuli\u00e8rement bien avec verveine citronnée pour renforcer ou compl\u00e9ter ses effets :
In terms of price-to-power ratio, yes. Citrals (neral + geranial) and rare sesquiterpenes give it exceptional anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. In diffusion or on the solar plexus, its effect is powerful and rapid. One of the most studied essential oils in psycho-aromatherapy.
The distillation yield is extremely low: about 0.1% (1 ton of leaves for 1 liter of essential oil). The plant is fragile and sensitive to frost. The main producers are Morocco and France. Expect 25-60 EUR per 5ml. Litsea cubeba is a cheaper alternative for diffusion.
Yes, it contains photosensitizing furocoumarins. Do not expose yourself to the sun within 12 hours of skin application. For diffusion and inhalation, no risk. In the evening, this constraint is easily managed.
The information on OilsGuide.com is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Essential oils are active substances that may present risks. Consult a healthcare professional before any therapeutic use.