Lemon Verbena Leaf cut (Aloysia triphylla)

Brush one leaf and the air fills with lemon; it is among the most strongly scented of all the lemon herbs.

Origin & Traditional Use

Aloysia citrodora, often listed as Aloysia triphylla, is a woody shrub native to western South America. Spanish voyagers brought it to Europe, where it was grown for perfume, finger bowls and tea.

In its homeland it is still drunk as cedrón or yerba Luisa, traditionally after meals.

Uses by Tradition

Witchcraft & Folk Magick

• Attraction: carry the leaves or bathe in an infusion before going out, to make yourself more attractive.
• Purification: add to baths and washes to clear stale influences, or add to other mixtures to brighten them.
• Quiet nights: herbals of magick record placing it under the pillow to keep dreams away.

A Simple Working

• Steep two tablespoons of lemon verbena and a handful of rose petals in a quart of just-boiled water for fifteen minutes.
• Strain into a warm bath.
• Light a pink chime candle.
• Pour the water over your shoulders, naming how you want to be seen.
• Air-dry and dress.
• Tuck a pinch of the dry leaf in a pocket when you go out.

Pairs Well With

• Rose petals: for love and glamour baths.
• Lemon balm: a softer lemon herb for love.
• Lavender: for purification.
• Rose quartz: for attraction.
• Pink chime candle: for glamour and affection.

Lore & History

The genus name Aloysia, and the names herb Louisa and yerba Luisa, honour an eighteenth-century Spanish queen.

Herbals of magick place it under Mercury and use it chiefly for purification and love.

What You Receive

Cut dried lemon verbena leaf, available in 1 oz and 1 lb.