10 Possible Side Effects Of Lippia Alba (Lemon Verbena)

Lippia alba has some side effects when used improperly, such as digestive issues, skin rashes, and allergic reactions.

These side effects can occur if the herb is consumed in large quantities or if the individual has a pre-existing allergy to certain compounds found in the plant.

For instance, if someone with a history of skin issues consumes excessive amounts of Lippia alba, they may experience severe itching, redness, and inflammation, potentially leading to further complications and impacting their daily activities.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Lippia alba if used imporperly.

1. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba causes allergic reactions due to its high content of essential oils, particularly citral and geraniol.

These oils can trigger an immune response in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as skin rashes, hives, and itching.

Additionally, the allergenic properties of Lippia alba's essential oils may also cause respiratory issues like congestion and difficulty breathing in people who are sensitive to them.

2. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba triggers asthmatic attacks due to its ability to release allergenic compounds such as limonene and citral into the air.

These volatile oils can irritate the airways, causing constriction of the bronchial tubes and leading to symptoms of asthma such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

In addition, Lippia alba may also increase the production of mucus, further exacerbating asthmatic symptoms.

3. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba induces convulsions due to its potential interaction with certain medications, such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines.

The herb's bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenes, may alter the brain's electrical activity, leading to a heightened risk of seizures. Additionally, Lippia alba's ability to increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain can also contribute to its convulsant effect.

As a result, individuals using Lippia alba may experience severe and potentially life-threatening reactions.

4. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba leads to diarrhea due to its high concentration of volatile oils and flavonoids.

These compounds can stimulate gut motility, increasing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements. Additionally, Lippia alba's anti-inflammatory properties may irritate the digestive tract, further contributing to loose stools and diarrhea.

As a result, users may experience frequent trips to the bathroom or an uncomfortable sensation of urgency.

5. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba stimulates excessive sweating due to its natural ability to increase heart rate and body temperature.

As a result, users may experience increased perspiration, particularly in warm or humid environments. The herb's warming properties can cause the body's natural cooling mechanisms to overcompensate, leading to excessive sweating.

This side effect is often temporary and typically subsides once the individual becomes accustomed to the herb's effects.

6. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba produces hallucinations due to its active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, which are known to affect the brain's neurotransmitters.

The essential oils found in Lippia alba can stimulate the production of serotonin and dopamine, leading to altered perceptions and distorted sense of reality.

Additionally, the herb's flavonoids and terpenes may also play a role in inducing hallucinations by influencing the activity of various neurotransmitter receptors in the brain.

7. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba increases heart rate due to its stimulant properties, which can stimulate the nervous system and cardiovascular system simultaneously.

The herb contains volatile oils, including citral and geraniol, that are believed to have a direct impact on the heart's rhythm, causing an increase in heart rate.

This effect is often temporary and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as palpitations or dizziness.

8. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba lowers blood pressure due to its vasodilatory properties.

The herb's active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, help relax the blood vessels, reducing peripheral resistance and leading to a decrease in blood pressure.

This effect is often attributed to the herb's ability to inhibit calcium channels and activate potassium channels in the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessel walls, thereby causing vasodilation.

9. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba causes nausea and vomiting.

This is due to its active compounds, such as citral and geraniol, which can irritate the digestive system and cause stomach upset. The plant's essential oils may also stimulate the stomach muscles, leading to increased contractions and a feeling of queasiness.

Additionally, some individuals may be sensitive to the phytochemicals present in Lippia alba, exacerbating these adverse effects.

10. Interferes with sleep

Lippia alba provokes skin irritation due to its high concentration of essential oils, particularly limonene and citral.

These potent compounds can cause allergic reactions, such as redness, itching, and inflammation, in some individuals.

The oil's ability to penetrate the skin quickly may contribute to its irritating effects, making it a potential allergen for people with sensitive skin.