10 Health Benefits Of Verbena Officinalis (Lemon Verbena)

Verbena officinalis, also known as lemon verbena, has health benefits such as reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation due to its high content of volatile oils, particularly citral and geranial.

These medicinal properties can improve sleep quality and alleviate symptoms of insomnia.

The calming effect of lemon verbena can also be beneficial for individuals with depression and stress-related disorders, allowing them to lead a more balanced life.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Verbena officinalis.

1. Reduces fever

Verbena officinalis reduces fever because of its antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's essential oil contains compounds like citral and limonene, which have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, reducing inflammation and alleviating fever-related discomfort.

Additionally, lemon verbena's flavonoids and phenolic acids exhibit antioxidant activities, helping to mitigate oxidative stress and promote a healthy response to infection, further contributing to its fever-reducing effects.

2. Alleviates pain

Verbena officinalis alleviates pain because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains compounds such as citral and limonene that have been shown to reduce inflammation and block pain pathways in the brain.

Additionally, lemon verbena has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress that often exacerbate chronic pain conditions, providing relief from discomfort and improving overall well-being.

3. Eases digestion

Verbena officinalis eases digestion because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids and terpenes that help to soothe the digestive tract.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines, making it easier for food to pass through and reducing symptoms of indigestion and bloating.

Additionally, lemon verbena's natural antispasmodic properties can relax the muscles in the digestive system, further promoting a smooth digestion process.

4. Improves sleep

Verbena officinalis improves sleep because of its unique properties.

Its essential oils, containing citral and geraniol, have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress levels. As a result, individuals are able to relax and fall asleep more easily, leading to improved sleep quality and duration.

Additionally, lemon verbena's sedative properties help regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, allowing for a restful night's sleep.

5. Reduces inflammation

Verbena officinalis reduces inflammation because of its rich content of flavonoids and volatile oils.

These bioactive compounds possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, the herb's phenolic acids have been shown to exhibit analgesic and antipyretic effects, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory activities.

This natural herb has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions, making it a promising alternative for managing inflammation.

6. Boosts immune system

Verbena officinalis boosts immune system because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant contains compounds like citral, limonene, and flavonoids that have been shown to increase the production of white blood cells, which fight off infections and diseases.

Additionally, it has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it an effective natural remedy for boosting immunity and protecting against illnesses such as colds and flu.

7. Regulates menstrual cycle

8. Treats skin conditions

Verbena officinalis treats skin conditions because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's essential oils contain flavonoids, which help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation caused by conditions such as eczema, acne, and rosacea.

Additionally, lemon verbena's antibacterial properties can aid in the treatment of infections like impetigo, further promoting healthy and clear skin.

9. Soothes sore throat

Verbena officinalis soothes sore throat because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The herb's essential oils contain citral, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in the throat.

When consumed as a tea or syrup, Verbena officinalis helps to calm irritated mucous membranes and reduce swelling, providing relief from discomfort and pain associated with sore throats.

10. Relieves cough

Verbena officinalis relieves cough because of its unique combination of flavonoids and volatile oils.

These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and ease congestion.

As a result, lemon verbena tea has become a popular remedy for soothing coughs and alleviating symptoms of upper respiratory infections, making it a natural and effective way to find relief from persistent coughing.