The Richness and Benefits of Lemon Verbena Tea

Greek Lemon Verbena Tea is a gentle herbal tea with a refreshing citrus flavor.

Photo: ©Mary Ann Rollano - Brewed lemon verbena tea

Since our trip, I've discovered a variety of Greek herbal teas and developed a particular love for lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora). Crushing the dried leaves of this aromatic herb releases a wonderfully fragrant lemon scent.

My discovery of this exquisite tea began with a desire to explore the lesser-known yet profoundly impactful elements of Greek herbal traditions.

In the heart of Greece's South Pindos Mountains lies a gem of herbal teas—Greek lemon verbena. This aromatic, lemon-scented herb is revered for its unique flavor and numerous health benefits, making it a cherished part of the region's heritage and integral to local culture for generations.

Lemon verbena leaves add a mild lemon flavor to poultry and fish dishes, vegetable marinades, salad dressings, jams, and beverages. They are also frequently used to make herbal tea.

Dan Buettner says in The Blue Zones Kitchen: 100 Recipes to Live to 100,

"Enjoying herbal tea is a daily ritual on Ikaria...which they often sweeten with honey."

The story behind Greek lemon verbena

Lemon verbena, affectionately known as "Louisa" in Greece, flourishes in the Mediterranean climate, particularly in the fertile soil of the South Pindos Mountains. Its delicate leaves emit a citrusy, fresh aroma. The locals cherish this herb not just for its delightful taste but also for its therapeutic benefits.

According to Greece Is Health, Lemon Verbena was imported to Greece from South America in the 18th century. The cultivation process is a testament to the dedication of the farmers in the region. Carefully tended, the plants flourish under the Greek sun, imparting a unique flavor intensity. The leaves are hand-picked precisely, ensuring that only the finest quality makes it into the tea.⁴

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Even though the following recipe does not contain lemon verbena, you may want to save this post for future reference. It’s a beautiful example from Greece Is Health of how the Greeks use herbs.

Flu Recovery Tea Recipe by Botanist Dimitris Kallimanis

“In a mug of freshly boiled water add 7g (1 1/2 tsp) in equal measure of red rose petals, lavender flowers, oregano leaves, thyme leaves, mountain tea and dittany (diktamos). Leave to steep for 10-15 minutes. Add 1 tbsp of thyme honey, which has antimicrobial and warming actions.

Lavender, thyme and diktamos have strong antibiotic properties and are effective in treating fever, infections and respiratory ailments. Red rose petals also help to reduce fever, while mountain tea acts as a tonic and detoxifier for the internal organs.”

Dimitris Kallimanis is a graduate of the School of Pharmacy and has been studying plants and herbs for over 24 years. He is also the author of the book: “Cosmetics and Therapies from Ancient Greece and the Byzantium to the Modern Day.”

(I find it interesting that the Greek School of Pharmacy studies phytopharmaceuticals, which is the study of herbal medicines that use plant components to treat ailments.)

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Savoring the experience

The brewing process releases a delightful aroma reminiscent of a fresh lemon orchard, and as the tea steeps, it transforms the water into a vibrant pale yellow hue. The first sip envelops your senses with a tangy sweetness and a soothing warmth. It's a cup of pure tranquility, a moment of quiet indulgence.

Some of the highest quality Mediterranean cooking herbs naturally grow in Greece. The varieties that grow in Greek soil can contain up to thirty times more essential oils than herbs from elsewhere. 

Greece has an immense diversity of microclimates and is home to an infinite list of endemic plants. Natural plantations and family-run farms where the produce is grown according to organic agricultural principles are plentiful.

The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies describes the incredible health benefits hidden within these vibrant leaves.

Lemon verbena is celebrated for its antioxidant properties, aiding detoxification and boosting the immune system. It's also known to support digestion and alleviate mild anxiety and restlessness, making it a popular choice for winding down after a hectic day.¹

Its anti-inflammatory properties have also made it a soothing remedy for mild aches and pains. The tea's calming effects have been treasured by many, offering a sense of relaxation and serenity to those who indulge in its warm embrace.

Lemon verbena tea benefits

According to a study published in Plants,

Lemon verbena leaves and flowers are used as herbal tea and externally as a poultice, oil, or wash. In the Verbenaceae (Verbena) family, Aloysia citriodora, or Aloysia triphylla, has medicinal properties traditionally used to treat various diseases, including bronchitis, insomnia, anxiety, and digestive and heart problems.²

Published uses include:

• Bronchial congestion: tea made from lemon verbena is used to treat bronchial and nasal congestion

• Arthritis, bursitis, and joint pain: lemon verbena tea significantly relieves joint pain. It takes time for the effects to build - over three months of taking tea twice daily.

• Digestive issues: Lemon verbena tea has a soothing effect on the digestive tract, relieving indigestion and calming intestinal spasms to ease cramping and bloating. Try drinking a cup after meals.

• Calm anxiety: lemon verbena tea soothes the nervous system, relieves stress, and lifts mood. 

• Antioxidant: Studies show that lemon verbena has promising antioxidant activities. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, the unstable molecules responsible for inflammation.

The Journal of Ethnopharmacology studied the photochemistry of lemon verbena, finding

Biological activities such as antioxidant, anxiolytic, neuroprotective, anticancer, anesthetic, antimicrobial, and sedative effects are proven in cell cultures and animal studies. ³

Thoughts on lemon verbena tea

This was a new tea for me. Its blend of taste and health benefits is a testament to the treasures found in nature.

I invite you to enjoy this golden elixir, allowing its warmth and goodness to nourish you. Embrace a cup of Greek lemon verbena tea and enjoy its rich heritage, one sip at a time.

Since I can't be in Greece every day, I discovered Klio Tea, an authentic Greek tea company in the United States. I enjoy many of their herbal teas and honey.

Why not add Greek honey and lemon verbena tea to your pantry?

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READ: The Sweet Secrets of Greek Honey

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How to make herbal teas & Lemon verbena tea recipe