Verbena and Vervain

Lemon-scented verbena (Lippia cit-riodora) is grown in France for its fragrant oil which is used in the cosmetic industry. The leaves of this herb make a cooling tisane and they are also used to flavor sugars and sweet dishes. When used in conjunction with fresh lemon the flavor is akin to fresh lime. Verbena is well worth growing in the herb garden simply for the scent it releases when you brush your hands over the leaves on a still evening.

Although a member of the same family, vervain (Verbena officinalis) has a restricted use in the kitchen; it is more commonly employed medicinally. However, in the center of Le Puy there is a large neon sign advertising Verveine du Velay, a famous vervain-flavored liqueur that is made in the region. I always wonder whether the success of this drink has any connection with a vervain tisane which has an ancient reputation as a love potion.