Lemon verbena extract

What is lemon verbena extract?

Lemon verbena extract is a concentrate of the essential oils, flavonoids and antioxidants contained in the leaves of lemon verbena. These active ingredients have various positive effects on the body, such as

• Calming and mood-enhancing: the aldehydes in the essential oils have been shown to have a relaxing and simultaneously stimulating effect on the nervous system. They can help to alleviate stress, anxiety and mild depression. A 2019 study showed that lemon verbena extract can improve sleep quality.
• Antioxidant and regenerative: The flavonoids and antioxidants protect the cells from free radicals and support cell renewal. They can help muscles recover more quickly after heavy exertion, as a study from 2018 has shown.
• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial: the terpenes in essential oils are effective against bacteria and inflammation in the body. They can help with infections, wounds or joint pain. Another study has shown that lemon verbena extract in combination with omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

How can you use lemon verbena extract for your dog?

Lemon verbena extract can be used both internally and externally for your dog. You should always pay attention to the correct dosage and quality. It is best to use a high-quality organic lemon verbena extract without additives.

Internal use

For internal use, you can give your dog lemon verbena extract as a dietary supplement. This can be useful, for example, if your dog is suffering from stress, restlessness, sleep disorders or digestive problems. Lemon verbena extract can also have a supportive effect on muscle or joint complaints.

The recommended dosage for dogs is around 0.5 to 1 milliliter per 10 kilograms of body weight per day. You can either put the extract directly into your dog's mouth or mix it into their food. Make sure that your dog drinks enough water to dilute the extract well.

External use

For external use, you can apply lemon verbena extract to your dog as a care product or remedy. This can be helpful, for example, if your dog suffers from skin irritations, wounds or parasite infestations. Lemon verbena extract can also be used for coat care or refreshment.

You can apply the extract either pure or diluted with water or a carrier oil (e.g. coconut oil) to the affected areas. Gently massage in the extract and leave it to work. Avoid contact with your dog's eyes, ears or mucous membranes. If your dog licks the extract, this is usually harmless as long as you follow the correct dosage.

What are the possible side effects and risks of lemon verbena extract?

Lemon verbena extract is generally well tolerated by dogs when used correctly. However, there are some cases where you should be careful or avoid the extract:

• Allergies: some dogs can have an allergic reaction to lemon verbena extract. This can manifest itself, for example, as a skin rash, itching, swelling or breathing difficulties. If you notice such symptoms in your dog, you should consult a vet immediately and discontinue use.
• Overdose: Too high a dose of lemon verbena extract can lead to gastrointestinal complaints, diarrhea, vomiting or cramps. If you notice such symptoms in your dog, you should also consult a vet and discontinue use.
• Interactions: Lemon verbena extract can influence the effect of other medications or food supplements. This may be the case, for example, if your dog is taking blood-thinning, antihypertensive or sedative medication. If your dog is on such medication, you should speak to your vet before using lemon verbena extract.
• Pregnancy and lactation: Lemon verbena extract can stimulate the uterus and lead to miscarriages or premature births. If your dog is pregnant or breastfeeding, you should therefore not use lemon verbena extract.