FEVER TEA [LEMON BUSH] ESSENTIAL OIL (LIPPIA JAVANICA) - ESSENTIAL OILS

Botanical Name: Lippia javanica

Common Method of Extraction: Steam distillation

Part Typically Used: Leaves, stems, roots

Color: Clear yellow to reddish

Consistency: Thin / Thick

Perfumery Note:  Medium /  Top

Strength of Initial Aroma:  Fruity and sweet.

It is also commonly referred to as "Verbena". This 1 to 2m high woody shrub stands erect and is multi-stemmed. The stems have a square appearance when looked at in cross-section. The leaves are hairy with noticeable veins and when crushed gives off a strong lemon-like smell.

It is said to be one of the most aromatic of South Africa's indigenous shrubs. The small cream flowers can be found on the shrub from summer to autumn in some areas and in others are produced all year.

It grows in open veld, in the bush, as well as on forest margins. It can be grown from seed, but also grows easily from cuttings. It grows relatively fast and prefers sunny areas. Lemon Bush is not very particular and seems to do well in most soil types. It is known to colonise disturbed areas, making it a pioneer plant. These plants are usually very hardy and can grow under difficult circumstances, requiring little maintenance.