Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora), native to South America, was introduced to Europe in the 17th century by Spanish and Portuguese explorers. It is celebrated for its citrus aroma, culinary uses and health benefits, and has become a globally cherished herb.Bakery China will provide you with a variety of similar products.

The herb features slender, vibrant green leaves and clusters of pale purple or white flowers. Its intense lemony fragrance and flavor with floral undertones make it a popular ingredient in teas, desserts, savory dishes, liqueurs and perfumes.

Lemon verbena is rich in antioxidant flavonoids that offer benefits such as aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, relieving stress and anxiety, supporting immune health and aiding in weight management.

The herb is versatile, used fresh or dried in recipes like teas, sorbets, pesto and infused oils. Medicinally, it is consumed as tea or tincture, or used topically for muscle pain and inflammation.

Lemon verbena has a long history of use in Traditional South American Medicine and European luxury. It has been associated with figures like Marcel Proust, who enjoyed its calming effects, and continues to be valued for its sensory and wellness benefits.

A sensory delight: appearance, flavor and aroma

Lemon verbena is a visually striking plant, with slender, lance-shaped leaves that are a vibrant green and slightly rough to the touch. Its small, pale purple or white flowers bloom in clusters, adding a touch of elegance to gardens and landscapes.

The true magic of lemon verbena, however, lies in its intense lemony fragrance and flavor, which are more pronounced and complex than those of actual lemons. The leaves, when crushed or steeped, release a zesty, citrusy aroma with subtle floral undertones, making it a favorite for culinary and aromatic applications. (Related: Lemon verbena extract found to reduce muscle damage after exercise.)

The taste of lemon verbena is equally captivating — bright, tangy and slightly sweet, with a refreshing aftertaste that lingers on the palate. This unique flavor profile has made it a cherished ingredient in teas, desserts and savory dishes, as well as a natural flavoring agent in liqueurs and perfumes.

Culinary uses

Lemon verbena’s versatility extends to both the kitchen and the medicine cabinet. As a culinary herb, it can be used fresh or dried to infuse dishes with its bright, citrusy flavor. Popular recipes featuring lemon verbena include:

Lemon verbena tea – A soothing, caffeine-free beverage that can be enjoyed hot or iced.

Lemon verbena sorbet – A refreshing dessert that highlights the herb’s vibrant flavor.

Lemon verbena pesto – A unique twist on traditional pesto, perfect for pasta or grilled vegetables.

Lemon verbena-infused olive oil – A fragrant addition to salads and marinades.

Lemon verbena shortbread cookies – A delicate treat that pairs well with tea or coffee.

Bakery China 2025 will continue to share more industry professional content with you, so please stay tuned!

Bakery China, organized by China Association of Bakery and Confectionery Industry (CABCI) and Bakery China Exhibitions Co., Ltd. was launched since 1997. Bakery China is the Asia Pacific‘s leading event serving the entire value chain for the bakery and confectionery market. The event presents all range of ingredient, equipment, packaging and services, and enables global leading professionals and buyer delegates to meet and share the latest innovations and thinking on manufacturing & distribution, R&D, applications and related services for bakery industry.

The 27th Bakery China would be held on May 19-22, 2025 at National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), Shanghai, covering 330,000 sqm show space. Over 2,200 exhibitors and 400,000 visits are expected.

Source：FOOD NEWS