Aloysia citrodora (Lemon Verbena)

Aloysia citrodora (Lemon Verbena)

Product Name: Вербена лимонная, Aloysia citrodora, Zitronenstrauch, Verbena de olor, Verveine citronnelle, رعي الحمام الليموني, เวอร์บีนามะนาว, Limon verbena, Лимондуу вербена, Limon verbena, Вербена лимонӣ, Citrininė verbenė, Citronverbēna, Вербена лимонна, Limon verbena, לואיזה רפואית

Synonyms: лимонная вербена, алойзия трилистная, лимонная алойзия, lemon verbena, lemon beebrush, citronella, Zitronenverbene, Zitronenduftstrauch, verbena olorosa, hierba luisa, verveine odorante, verveine citron, لويزة، لويزا، لويزة ليمونية, เวอร์บีน่ากลิ่นเลมอน, เวอร์บีน่าหอม, ต้นเวอร์บีน่า, ต้นลูอีซ่า

Used Parts: leaves, aerial part, flowering shoots, essential oil, extract — leaves.

Main Indications for Use of Aloysia citrodora: Insomnia, anxiety disorder, spastic colitis, functional dyspepsia, gastritis with high acidity, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic cholecystitis, bronchial asthma of allergic etiology, mild exogenous depressive episode, menstrual syndrome with emotional lability, chronic stress, somatoform disorder, stage I hypertension, hypertensive-type neurocirculatory dystonia, upper respiratory tract inflammation.

Use of Aloysia citrodora in Mixtures and Complexes: Gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, chronic gastroduodenitis, hyperacid gastritis with pain syndrome, menopausal syndrome, post-inflammatory asthenia, chronic pancreatitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, anemia of chronic inflammation, colds, appetite disorders in children and adolescents.

Pharmacological Properties of Aloysia citrodora: antioxidant, anxiolytic, spasmolytic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, carminative, mild hypotensive, immunomodulating, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, mucolytic, analgesic, aromatherapeutic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Aloysia citrodora

Powder — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Powder): Insomnia, anxiety disorder, gastritis with high acidity, functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic cholecystitis, bronchial asthma of allergic etiology, hypertensive-type neurocirculatory dystonia.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 2 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2 grams of powder 2 times a day for anxiety disorder, spastic colitis, and mild exogenous depressive episode.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 3 grams of powder 2 times a day for exacerbation of irritable bowel syndrome, pronounced dyspepsia, and chronic bronchitis with an asthmatic component.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams of powder once a day in the morning on an empty stomach, for 30 days, every 3 months — for patients with neurocirculatory dystonia, stage I hypertension, chronic stress, and perimenopausal women.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): Minimum age — 7 years, minimum body weight — 25 kilograms: 250 milligrams of powder once a day during meals, course up to 10 days.

Contraindications (Powder): Individual intolerance, gastritis with low acidity, peptic ulcer in the exacerbation stage. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 7 years have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): Heartburn, increased urination, nausea — registered with overdose of more than 4 grams per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight less than 60 kilograms, the dosage is reduced by 20 percent. For patients with body weight more than 90 kilograms, an increase in dosage by 25 percent is allowed.

Preparation Method (Powder): To prepare 100 grams of powder, take 120 grams of dried lemon verbena leaves. The dried raw material is ground in a mortar to a powder state, sifted through a sieve with a mesh diameter of no more than 0.3 millimeters. Store in an airtight dark glass jar.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a tightly closed container, in a dry room at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, protected from direct light and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening the package, use within 45 days.

Dry Extract — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Dry Extract): Anxiety disorder, functional dyspepsia, spastic colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis with high acidity, hypertensive-type neurocirculatory dystonia, chronic cholecystitis, mild exogenous depressive episode.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 150 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 300 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day for chronic gastroduodenitis, functional dyspepsia with a pain component, and anxiety disorder with vegetative symptoms.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 450 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day, for no more than 10 days, for spastic colitis with pain syndrome and persistent dyspepsia.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 milligrams of dry extract once a day in the morning, in 21-day courses with a 2-month break, for patients with neurocirculatory dystonia, chronic stress, and irritable bowel syndrome in remission.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Minimum age — 12 years, body weight — at least 35 kilograms: 50 milligrams of dry extract once a day during meals.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Hypersensitivity, gastritis with low acidity, organic liver lesions. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Nausea, dizziness, increased dyspeptic symptoms when exceeding the dosage of more than 900 milligrams per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 60 kilograms — reduction of dosage by 25 percent. For body weight more than 90 kilograms — increase in dosage by 20 percent.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): 100 grams of dried leaves are poured with 1 liter of 40% ethanol. Infused for 7 days at a temperature of 20–22 degrees Celsius in a dark place. Then filtered, evaporated to a thick extract at a temperature not exceeding 45 degrees Celsius. The resulting mass is dried in a spray dryer to obtain a dry powder. Yield — about 20 grams of dry extract. The resulting powder is packaged in airtight jars with a moisture absorber.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in tightly closed containers, in a dry and cool place at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to light and moisture. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening, use within 60 days.

Tincture — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Tincture): Anxiety disorder, insomnia, mild exogenous depressive episode, chronic stress, hypertensive-type neurocirculatory dystonia, gastritis with high acidity, irritable bowel syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 25 drops of alcohol tincture 2 times a day, diluted in 50 milliliters of water, 20 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 35 drops 2 times a day for pronounced symptoms of anxiety disorder, chronic stress, sleep disorders, and gastritis with a pain component.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): 40 drops 2 times a day, no more than 7 days in a row, for acute tension, panic attacks, and nocturnal tachycardia due to vegetative disorders.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 15 drops once a day in the evening, in 21-day courses with a 1-month break, for patients with chronic fatigue, neurocirculatory dystonia, and perimenopausal disorders.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Use of alcohol tincture in children under 18 years is not recommended. Scientifically reliable safety data have not been registered.

Contraindications (Tincture): Chronic alcoholism, epilepsy, liver failure, individual intolerance to ethanol. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Tincture): Dizziness, drowsiness, heartburn, increased gastralgia when exceeding the dosage of more than 80 drops per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Body weight less than 60 kilograms — reduction of dosage by 20 percent. Body weight more than 90 kilograms — increase in dosage by 15 percent.

Preparation Method (Tincture): To prepare 100 milliliters of alcohol tincture, take 20 grams of ground dry lemon verbena leaves and pour with 100 milliliters of 70% ethanol. The mixture is infused in a glass container under a lid for 10 days in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 18–22 degrees Celsius. Once a day, the tincture is shaken. At the end of the infusion period, it is filtered through gauze. Stored in a dark bottle with a tightly closing lid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a dark place at a temperature of 5 to 25 degrees Celsius, away from light and heat sources, in a glass container with an airtight stopper. Shelf life — up to 36 months. After opening, use within 90 days.

Oil Infusion — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Oil Infusion): Atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, neurodermatitis, pruritus of unclear etiology, stress-induced skin inflammation, chronic fatigue, mild depressive episode, sleep disturbance with muscle tension.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally — apply 2 milliliters of oil to the skin in pulse zones (wrists, neck) or rub into the solar plexus area 1–2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 5 milliliters in the form of a compress on the chest or upper back at night, for sleep disorders with pronounced tension, psychosomatic reactions, and anxiety disorder with skin itching.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): 10 milliliters per day on the skin, divided into 2–3 applications, allowed for no more than 5 days, for exacerbation of atopic dermatitis or severe manifestations of neurodermatitis with increased irritability.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 milliliter of oil applied once a day in the evening to the chest or wrist area, in 14-day courses with a 1-month break, for persons with chronic fatigue, insomnia, and a tendency to anxiety.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): Minimum age — 5 years. With a body weight of more than 18 kilograms — 0.5 milliliters once a day externally, in diluted form (1:2 with coconut oil), on the skin of the upper chest or feet.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Individual intolerance, allergic dermatitis, acute pustular skin diseases. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 5 years have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Skin irritation, local hyperemia, itching, especially when applied to damaged skin or undiluted at a dosage above 10 milliliters per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 60 kilograms, a 25% reduction in dosage is recommended. For body weight more than 90 kilograms, a 15% increase in dosage is allowed.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): To prepare 100 grams of oil infusion, use 20 grams of dry lemon verbena leaves and 100 grams of cold-pressed coconut oil. The raw material is ground, mixed with oil heated to 40 degrees, and kept in a water bath at a temperature of 40–45 degrees for 4 hours. Then the mixture is cooled, infused for 24 hours in a dark place, and filtered through fabric. The resulting infusion is stored in a tightly closed container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a tightly closed dark glass container, at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in a light-protected place. Avoid exposure to heat, moisture, and EMI. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Essential Oil — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Essential Oil): Anxiety disorder, insomnia, mild depressive episode, neurocirculatory dystonia, tension migraine, bronchial asthma of allergic etiology, eczema, psoriasis, acne, seborrheic dermatitis, diffuse alopecia, stress-induced tachycardia.

Standard Dosage (Essential Oil): Aromatherapy: 3 drops in an aroma lamp or diffuser per 15 square meters for 30 minutes. Externally: 1 drop of essential oil diluted in 5 milliliters of carrier oil, apply once a day to the wrists or chest.

Enhanced Dosage (Essential Oil): Aromatherapy: up to 5 drops per 15–20 square meters, 2 times a day for acute stress reactions, panic attacks, and sleep disorders. Externally: 2 drops per 10 milliliters of carrier oil, apply 2 times a day for anxiety disorder or psoriasis with itching.

Maximum Dosage (Essential Oil): Aromatherapy: 6 drops per room up to 25 square meters, 3 times a day, no more than 7 days. Externally: 3 drops per 10 milliliters of carrier oil, apply no more than 3 times a day on a limited skin area (up to 5x5 cm), for acute eczema or severe astheno-neurotic reaction.

Preventive Dosage (Essential Oil): Aromatherapy: 2 drops in an aroma diffuser in the evening, every other day, for 21 days, repeat the course once every 2 months — for a tendency to anxiety, chronic fatigue, and sleep disorders. External use: 1 drop per 5 milliliters of coconut oil, once every 2 days on the chest or feet, for 14 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Essential Oil): Minimum age — 6 years. Aromatherapy: 1 drop of essential oil per 15 square meters, once a day in the evening, for 5 days. External use: only diluted as 1 drop per 10 milliliters of carrier oil, apply to the feet, no more than 3 times a week.

Contraindications (Essential Oil): Individual hypersensitivity, pregnancy (first trimester), epilepsy, hypotension, severe forms of bronchial asthma. Scientifically confirmed contraindications during lactation and in children under 6 years are absent.

Side Effects (Essential Oil): Skin allergic reaction, nausea, headache, dizziness when exceeding the dosage in the aroma space and when applied undiluted.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 60 kilograms — no more than 2 drops of essential oil per day in all forms of use. For body weight more than 90 kilograms — an increase in dosage of up to 30 percent is allowed.

Preparation Method (Essential Oil): To obtain 1 milliliter of essential oil, approximately 300 grams of fresh leaves are required. Steam distillation is carried out at a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius for 2.5 hours. The condensate is collected, and the essential oil is separated from the hydrolate by decantation. For use in cosmetics, the essential oil is mixed with coconut oil at a concentration of 1–3 percent.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Essential Oil): Store in a tightly closed dark glass bottle, at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in a place protected from light and EMI. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening, use within 90 days, tightly closing the bottle after each use.

Ointment — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Ointment): Eczema, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, contact dermatitis, skin itching, inflammatory skin rashes, stress-induced skin irritation, skin manifestations of anxiety disorder.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Externally — apply 1 gram of ointment in a thin layer to the affected skin area 2 times a day, morning and evening.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): 2 grams of ointment 3 times a day for exacerbation of psoriasis, eczema, neurodermatitis, or contact dermatitis with a pronounced inflammatory component.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): No more than 6 grams per day, divided into 3 applications, allowed for 7 days for acute manifestations of inflammatory skin diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): 0.5 grams of ointment once a day on areas with chronic manifestations of dryness, itching, or peeling, in 14-day courses with a 1-month break. Recommended for patients with chronic stress, allergic skin reactions, and reactive skin.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): Use is permissible from 6 years of age. For children with a body weight of at least 20 kilograms — 0.25 grams of ointment once a day, for no more than 5 days, under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Ointment): Individual intolerance to components, open purulent wounds, deep skin lesions, weeping dermatoses. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 6 years have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Ointment): Local burning, redness, increased itching when exceeding the recommended dosage or applying to damaged skin.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight less than 60 kilograms, a 25% reduction in the amount of ointment is recommended. For body weight more than 90 kilograms, the dosage may be increased by 15%.

Preparation Method (Ointment): To prepare 100 grams of ointment, the following is used: 5 milliliters of lemon verbena essential oil; 30 grams of cold-pressed coconut oil; 65 grams of medical beeswax. Beeswax is melted in a water bath at a temperature of 65–70 degrees Celsius. Coconut oil is added, then, as the mass cools (to 45 degrees), the essential oil is introduced. Stirred until uniform and poured into sterile jars. The cooled ointment is stored in tightly closed containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a dry, cool place at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in an opaque glass container, protected from light and heat. Avoid storage near sources of EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Cream — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Cream): Seborrheic dermatitis, acne, skin irritation prone to inflammation, hyperemia, itching, couperose, stress-induced rashes, dry skin due to chronic stress.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Externally — apply 1 gram of cream to cleansed facial and neck skin once a day, in the evening, with light massaging movements.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): 1 gram of cream 2 times a day — morning and evening — for pronounced inflammatory rashes, redness, and skin irritation, as part of dermatological care programs.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 2 grams of cream 3 times a day, short-term (no more than 5 days) for exacerbation of seborrheic dermatitis or pronounced skin reaction to stress.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): 0.5 grams of cream once a day at night for 21 days, with a repeat course once every 2 months — in patients with sensitive skin, under conditions of emotional stress, as well as with a tendency to seasonal exacerbation of dermatological conditions.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): Use is permissible from 10 years of age, with a body weight of at least 30 kilograms. Dosage — 0.25 grams of cream once a day on the affected skin areas, no more than 7 days in a row.

Contraindications (Cream): Hypersensitivity, weeping inflammatory processes on the skin, acute forms of acne conglobata. Scientifically confirmed contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 10 years have not been registered.

Side Effects (Cream): Rarely — burning sensation, tingling, increased itching, especially when applied to damaged skin or with individual intolerance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 60 kilograms — no more than 0.5 grams of cream per application. For body weight over 90 kilograms, the dosage may be increased to 1.5 grams.

Preparation Method (Cream): To prepare 100 grams of cream: 10 grams of aqueous infusion of lemon verbena; 3 grams of lemon verbena essential oil; 20 grams of coconut oil; 65 grams of base moisturizing cream (without mineral oils, based on plant-derived emulsifiers). Coconut oil and essential oil are added to the aqueous phase (infusion), mixed with the cream base at a temperature of 30–35 degrees Celsius, and whipped until completely homogeneous. The resulting product is packaged in sterile tubes.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Avoid storage near heat sources and electromagnetic waves. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Serum — Aloysia citrodora

Indications (Serum): Acne, post-acne, skin irritation, enlarged pores, hyperemia, couperose, increased skin sensitivity, seborrheic dermatitis, oily skin with inflammatory elements, skin manifestations of anxiety disorder.

Standard Dosage (Serum): Externally — apply 3 drops of serum to cleansed facial skin once a day, in the evening, with light tapping movements, avoiding the area around the eyes.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 5 drops 2 times a day, morning and evening, for pronounced acne, stress-induced skin irritation, reactive sensitivity, especially in adolescence and during hormonal instability.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): 8 drops 2 times a day, no more than 5 days in a row, on the entire face surface, for severe exacerbations of seborrheic dermatitis or acute inflammatory rashes.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 2 drops once a day in the evening, in 14-day courses with a 30-day break, for patients with sensitive skin prone to couperose, redness, and stress-induced oily skin.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): Use is permissible from 12 years of age, with a body weight of at least 35 kilograms. Dosage — 1 drop of serum once a day in the evening, spotwise on inflamed skin areas, no more than 7 days in a row.

Contraindications (Serum): Hypersensitivity to lemon verbena essential oil, active pustular skin infections, weeping inflammatory processes. Scientifically reliable contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years have not been registered.

Side Effects (Serum): Rarely — tingling sensation, redness, local hyperemia, increasing when applied to inflamed or damaged skin.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight less than 60 kilograms, it is recommended to use no more than 2 drops per day. For patients with body weight more than 90 kilograms, a dose of up to 6 drops per application is permissible.

Preparation Method (Serum): To prepare 100 grams of serum: 2 milliliters of lemon verbena essential oil; 5 milliliters of dry lemon verbena extract; 10 milliliters of lemon verbena hydrolate; 10 milliliters of jojoba oil; 5 milliliters of coconut oil; 68 milliliters of hyaluronic gel base on a plant basis. All components are mixed at a temperature of 25–28 degrees Celsius under sterile conditions, avoiding contact with metal surfaces. Poured into dark glass dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store at a temperature of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, in a dark place, without access to light and heat. Shield from electromagnetic exposure. Shelf life — up to 2 months. After opening, use within 21 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Aloysia citrodora

Studies on the toxicological safety of Aloysia citrodora have shown low overall toxicity and good tolerability in model systems. According to data obtained from acute oral administration of Aloysia citrodora extract in laboratory animals, the LD₅₀ value exceeds 2000 mg/kg of body weight, which indicates classification of the substance as practically non-toxic (category V on the OECD toxicity scale).

With repeated administration of the extract for 28 days, no signs of toxicity were detected at doses up to 1000 mg/kg. No negative effects on liver and kidney function, blood composition, or behavior of experimental animals were observed. No mutagenic or genotoxic effects were recorded in the Ames test and chromosomal aberration analysis.

Thus, lemon verbena extract can be considered pharmacologically safe for oral and external use in therapeutic doses. However, data on toxicokinetics with long-term use in humans are insufficient for final conclusions on cumulative safety.

Reference:  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711314001839

Pharmacodynamics — Aloysia citrodora

The pharmacodynamic properties of Aloysia citrodora are determined by the content of a complex of biologically active compounds, among which the most significant are flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin, their glycosides), phenolcarboxylic acids (verbascoside, ferulic acid, coumaric acid), terpenoids, as well as essential oil, which includes citral, geranial, neral, linalool, limonene, and others. The combination of these compounds provides a wide range of pharmacological effects at the level of the central and autonomic nervous system, immune regulation, skin receptor structures, and the gastrointestinal tract.

One of the most studied pharmacodynamic mechanisms of Aloysia citrodora is its anxiolytic action, realized through interaction with the central GABAergic system. In vivo studies have shown that Aloysia citrodora extract is able to modulate the activity of GABA-A receptors, contributing to a decrease in neuronal excitability and normalization of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responses under stress stimulation. This allows the plant to be classified as a mild modulator of psychovegetative regulation.

The antioxidant activity of Aloysia citrodora extracts has been confirmed in both cellular and animal models. The mechanism is based on the ability of flavonoids and phenolic acids to inactivate free radicals, as well as to induce the expression of antioxidant defense enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. This action is realized at the systemic level and in individual tissues, including the skin, mucous membranes, and neurons.

The anti-inflammatory effect of Aloysia citrodora extracts is associated with inhibition of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins (through inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2) and cytokines (interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). Studies have shown that phenolic compounds of the plant can reduce the expression of these molecules in macrophages and other immunocompetent cells, indicating immunomodulatory potential in chronic inflammation.

It has been established that components of the essential oil of Aloysia citrodora (in particular, citral and linalool) exhibit moderate activity against a number of bacterial and fungal strains, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. This predominantly local action is realized through disruption of microbial membrane integrity, inhibition of enzymatic processes, and inhibition of quorum sensing.

In addition, individual flavonoids of Aloysia citrodora have demonstrated spasmolytic activity, realized through blockade of calcium channels of smooth muscle cells, which reduces the tone of smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. This effect is peripheral in nature and manifests at the level of local receptors and ion channels of the intestinal wall.

Moderate hypotensive effects have also been found, probably associated with the vasodilating action of terpenes and flavonoids, affecting vascular tone through stimulation of nitric oxide (NO) production and a decrease in intracellular calcium in smooth muscle cells of arteries.

Cosmetic applications of Aloysia citrodora components (especially essential oil) are based on their anti-inflammatory, seboregulating, and aromatherapeutic effects. Mechanisms include activation of skin thermoreceptors, reduction of sebum production, and stabilization of the epidermal barrier function.

Thus, the pharmacodynamics of Aloysia citrodora cover a wide range of biological targets: from central neurotransmitter systems and enzyme pathways to peripheral receptors and innate immune cells. The effects of the plant are systemic and local, realized through specific modulating mechanisms confirmed experimentally.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Pharmacokinetics — Aloysia citrodora

The pharmacokinetic properties of Aloysia citrodora are determined by a complex of biologically active substances, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and essential oil components. The main routes of administration are oral (when using powders, infusions, extracts), transdermal (ointment forms, oils), inhalation (essential oil), as well as through mucous membranes (with external or spot application in the area of the nose, mouth, genitals, and gastrointestinal tract).

With oral administration, the active components — primarily flavonoids and phenolcarboxylic acids — are absorbed in the small intestine by passive diffusion and active transport. Their bioavailability can vary significantly depending on the glycosylation of the molecule, acidity of the environment, and the state of the mucous membrane. An important role is played by the intestinal microbiota, which participates in deglycosylation and biotransformation of flavonoids, increasing their absorption and availability for systemic circulation. Flavonoids undergo intensive primary metabolism in the liver with the formation of conjugates — mainly sulfates and glucuronides — which affects their pharmacological activity and duration of action.

Phenolic compounds and terpenoids after absorption are distributed mainly in hepatic tissue, mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Their binding to plasma proteins is moderate, and they are able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which partly explains the central anxiolytic and sedative effects. With prolonged use, accumulation in lipophilic tissues (adipose tissue, dermis) is possible, especially with the use of transdermal and oil forms.

The transdermal route (when applying oil infusion, creams, ointments, or essential oil) provides slow but sustained delivery of terpenes and aromatic components to the systemic bloodstream. Transfer through the stratum corneum of the skin occurs passively, with the participation of intercellular lipids. The rate of penetration depends on the concentration of the active substance, the nature of the base, and the state of the skin barrier. Through this route, local and partially systemic action is achieved without significant passage through the liver, which reduces the load on metabolic organs.

Inhalation use of essential oil activates olfactory epithelial receptors and partially provides systemic action through alveolar absorption. Small terpene molecules can quickly enter the bloodstream and affect the CNS. This route is characterized by a rapid onset of action and a relatively short duration.

Metabolism of Aloysia citrodora components in the body proceeds mainly in the liver with the participation of phase I and II enzymes — oxidation, hydroxylation, and subsequent conjugation. To a lesser extent, active substances undergo transformation in the intestine and skin. The main routes of excretion are through the kidneys (in the form of water-soluble metabolites in urine), bile (partially flavonoids and terpenoids), and the lungs (volatile components of essential oil). A small part of metabolites may be excreted with sweat and through the skin.

Thus, the pharmacokinetic profile of Aloysia citrodora is characterized by multiple routes of entry and excretion, a high level of metabolic transformation, and moderate potential for tissue accumulation. The features of absorption and distribution depend on the form of administration, the degree of lipophilicity of the components, and the participation of enzyme and microbiological systems of the body.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Aloysia citrodora

The pharmacological activity of Aloysia citrodora is explained by the interaction of biologically active substances of the plant with key cellular and molecular targets. Flavonoids present in the plant, such as luteolin and apigenin, are able to modulate the activity of the central nervous system through effects on GABA-A receptors. Studies on animal models have shown the potential of these compounds to enhance inhibitory neurotransmitter transmission, which may be associated with anxiolytic and sedative effects. It has been established that these flavonoids bind to allosteric sites of GABA-A receptors, modulating their sensitivity to endogenous gamma-aminobutyric acid.

References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6732298/; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711314001839

Terpenoids, including citral and geranial, are volatile monoterpenes that affect signaling cascades involved in the regulation of inflammation. In particular, citral is able to inhibit the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB in macrophages, reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. This indicates the ability of Aloysia citrodora to modulate the innate immune response at the level of the cytokine cascade and cell proliferation.

References: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049...; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Polyphenols of the plant, including ferulic and rosmarinic acids, exhibit antioxidant activity due to their ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhance the expression of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. These effects are realized at the cellular level in neurons, hepatocytes, and epithelial cells, including through activation of the Nrf2/ARE signaling cascade.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...; https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Inhibitory effects of Aloysia citrodora extract on the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) have also been identified, which is associated with a decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins — mediators of inflammation and pain sensitivity. This mechanism plays a role in reducing inflammatory activity at the systemic and tissue levels, especially in the skin and mucous membranes.

Reference: https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

The antimicrobial activity of essential oil components is carried out through damage to the lipid membrane of microorganisms, increased permeability, and inhibition of pathogen enzyme systems. The main cellular targets are the cytoplasmic membrane and protein complexes of ion transport. Inhibitory effects against gram-positive bacteria, yeast-like fungi, and opportunistic flora have been established.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...; https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

In addition, there is evidence of the ability of luteolin and apigenin to suppress the activation of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which confirms the potential of Aloysia citrodora to modulate cholinergic transmission. This effect is associated with an increase in acetylcholine levels in the synaptic cleft and may contribute to cognitive activity and neuroprotection.

References: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032...; https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Thus, the mechanisms of action of Aloysia citrodora are realized through multiple pharmacological targets: neuroreceptors, inflammatory mediators, antioxidant pathways, and microbial targets. These data have been obtained within the framework of confirmed experimental and biochemical studies published in leading pharmacological sources.

Synergy — Aloysia citrodora

Synergistic interaction of Aloysia citrodora with other plant and natural substances has been confirmed by a number of pharmacological and biochemical studies. It has been established that extracts of this taxon enhance antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects when used together with other sources of polyphenols and flavonoids, such as Melissa officinalis, Passiflora incarnata, and Matricaria chamomilla. These combinations demonstrate additive and potentiating interactions, realized through cumulative activation of antioxidant enzymes and inhibition of inflammatory signaling pathways, in particular NF-κB and MAPK. Simultaneous effects on transcription factors lead to a more pronounced reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, which allows us to speak of tissue-specific synergy in the structures of mucous membranes and skin.

References: https://www.sciencedirect.com/...; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

According to the results of in vivo studies, Aloysia citrodora extract in combination with extracts of Valeriana officinalis and Lavandula angustifolia has a potentiating anxiolytic and sedative effect. The synergy mechanism is based on convergent activation of GABAergic neurotransmission, including through allosteric modulation of GABA-A receptors and enhancement of transmembrane inhibition in limbic system neurons. This is confirmed by behavioral tests and analysis of receptor expression in brain tissue.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...; https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Modulating synergy is observed with the combined use of Aloysia citrodora with Rosmarinus officinalis and Salvia officinalis. This combination has a mutual enhancement on cognitive parameters, demonstrating an additive effect on cholinergic transmission and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity. The effect on the AChE enzyme is cumulative in nature, which can be explained by the summation of the effects of flavonoids and terpenoids capable of binding to the active center of the enzyme.

References: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921...; https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Pharmacological synergy has also been confirmed with inhalation use of Aloysia citrodora essential oil together with oils of Citrus sinensis and Pelargonium graveolens. These combinations contribute to the potentiation of aromatherapy effects due to the integration of aromatic terpenes with different volatility, which affects the duration and intensity of exposure through the olfactory system. Increased activity is observed when affecting the central zones of the hypothalamus responsible for the regulation of autonomic balance and emotional reactivity.

References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Additionally, synergy has been identified between Aloysia citrodora and magnesium in organic forms. Combined use leads to a modulating effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a decrease in cortisol levels, and normalization of the stress response, which has been confirmed by biochemical analysis of blood serum under conditions of experimental modeling of chronic stress.

Reference: https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Thus, Aloysia citrodora exhibits high pharmacological compatibility with plant sources of flavonoids, essential oils, and nutrients, forming both additive and potentiating forms of interaction. Systemic and tissue-specific synergy effects have been confirmed in vitro and in vivo, which expands the potential of its use in multicomponent formulas with targeted action.

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Aloysia citrodora

Aloysia citrodora is traditionally used in the ethnomedical systems of South America, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East, from where the plant spread to Europe and Asia as a cultivated and medicinal plant. The homeland is considered to be the Andean region (modern Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina), where the plant is known as hierba luisa and was used by the indigenous Quechua and Aymara peoples. According to ethnobotanical sources, the leaves were used in the form of decoctions and infusions in purification rituals, especially during periods of emotional upheaval or life cycle changes. The plant was also considered a talisman against the evil eye and was used in steam inhalations during home ceremonies.

In Moroccan and Algerian tradition, Aloysia citrodora leaves were widely used in infusions, as an aromatic agent, and in fumigation of premises. In Berber culture, the plant was used in the preparation of healing baths, including for infants. In Sephardic and Arab herbal traditions of the Middle East, it was considered a plant that "breathes calm" and was used in incense in sleeping and meditation areas. In Iran and Turkey, lemon verbena traditionally was included in tea mixtures and incense in Sufi spiritual practices.

In Spain and Portugal, it has been known since the 16th century as "verbena de olor" and "erva-luísa," where it entered the practice of monastic medicine and peasant healing. In European tradition, the plant was considered a "herb of peace"; its smell was associated with purification and sleep. In folk beliefs of Castile, lemon verbena twigs were worn on the chest as an amulet against bad dreams and fears. In France, it was used in infusions and incense for home purification, especially after death or family conflicts.

In Thailand, lemon verbena is cultivated as an aromatic and ritual plant in the northern and central provinces. In traditional practice, it is used in steam inhalations, as well as in infusions added to herbal compresses (luk pra kob) used in spa rituals and therapeutic massages. In Thai cultural symbolism, it is associated with the balance between mental and physical purity.

In modern Latin America (especially in Peru, Mexico, and Chile), the plant retains popularity in village medicine, used in decoctions, compresses, baths, and fumigations. In Andean spiritual practices, the plant is used by shamans as part of ayahuasca ceremonies and other purification rituals, where it is considered a "herb of breath and sleep."

In Slavic territories, the plant became known in the 19th century as an exotic "lemon potion" and is found in herbal books under the name "lemon verbena," although ethnographic mentions of deep integration into folk medicine have not been recorded.

Thus, Aloysia citrodora is an ethnobotanically rich taxon, present in the medical, aromatic, and ritual traditions of different continents — from South America and the Mediterranean to Southeast Asia. The use of the plant has always been accompanied by an aromatic and ritual context, indicating its stable perception as a "herb of purification and peace" in cultures with different roots and historical depth.