Álos

Álos, also known as *Aloysia citrodora* or commonly referred to as **Lemon Verbena**, is a fragrant perennial herb native to South America, particularly regions of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It belongs to the Verbenaceae family and is closely related to other aromatic plants like basil and mint. The plant is cultivated for its distinct lemon-like scent, which is derived from its leaves and flowers, and is widely used in culinary, medicinal, and aromatic applications.

Álos grows as a shrub or small tree, typically reaching heights of 1 to 3 meters under ideal conditions. Its leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and emit a strong citrus aroma when crushed. The flowers are small, tubular, and white or pale lavender, blooming in clusters along the stems. The plant thrives in warm climates and prefers well-drained soil with full sunlight, though it can tolerate partial shade.

In culinary use, álos leaves are often used to flavor teas, desserts, and savory dishes, particularly in Latin American and European cuisines. The lemony aroma adds a refreshing twist to beverages like infusions, cocktails, and even lemonade. In traditional medicine, álos has been used for its calming and digestive properties, with some cultures employing it to relieve stress, insomnia, and mild gastrointestinal issues. The essential oil extracted from the leaves is also used in aromatherapy for its soothing effects.

Beyond its culinary and medicinal uses, álos is valued in perfumery and natural fragrance blends due to its bright, citrusy scent. It is relatively easy to grow from cuttings or seeds, making it a popular choice for home gardens and herbal enthusiasts. However, it may spread aggressively in some environments, so care should be taken to prevent it from becoming invasive.