Commonly known as: Lippia Citriodora Leaf Water (I.N.C.I.), Lemon Verbena Floral Water, Aloysia triphylla, Fragrant Verbena, Lemongrass Verbena, Tears of Isis.
Botanical name: Lippia citriodora.
Extraction process: Distillation by steam stripping.
Family: Verbenaceae.
Extracted part of the plant: Flowering tops.
Cultivation area, origin: Primarily cultivated in the tropical regions of South America (Argentina, Peru, Chile).
Blooming: End of summer (mid-July) to autumn (mid-October).
Origin, provenance: France.
Phytochemical composition: Terpenic alcohols (alpha-terpineol, linalool, geraniol, Neron); terpenic aldehydes (citral); terpenic oxides (1,8-cineole/eucalyptol)
Sensory properties: Appearance: Clear liquid; Colour: Colourless to whitish; Odour: Powerful, fresh, lemony.
Physical properties: Density: 0.990 - 1.010 g/cm3; pH: 3.5 - 5.5; Soluble in water; Insoluble in oil.
Concerns: Tightening, anti-inflammatory, refreshing, softening, soothing, fragrant, antibacterial, antioxidant.
Effect: All skin types, particularly those lacking radiance, irritated skin, acne-prone skin, mature skin, and sensitive skin; all hair types, especially those with irritated scalps.
Antibacterial: Combat the growth of certain bacteria through the action of eucalyptol, linalool, and alpha-terpineol;
Anti-inflammatory: Inhibiting the activity of NLRP3, an inflammasome complex, through the action of geranial, beneficial for soothing irritations;
Antioxidant: Eliminating radicals by increasing the production of glutathione, an antioxidant tripeptide involved in maintaining the redox potential of the cytoplasm of cells, a characteristic that comes from its high citral content (around 50%);
Tensor: Enhancing the elasticity and hydration of the epidermis and reducing the appearance of wrinkles (when taken orally).
Facial Care (After-shave tonics, floral waters, face creams, serums, makeup removal foams, micellar lotions, cleansing lotions, eye contour creams, face masks);
Body Care (massage milks/gels, creams, deodorants, shower gels, balms, exfoliating gels, mists, after-sun gels, body milks, solid soaps);
Haircare (shampoos, detangling balms);
Hygiene (toothpastes).
Store at room temperature in a dry and cool place, protected from direct sunlight, heat and humidity.
The floral water of lemon verbena does not have any contraindications. It can be used by pregnant and/or breastfeeding women as well as children.