Speak Spanish? You Know Lemon Verbena as Lipia

In Spanish, Lemon Verbena is called by one of it's various Latin names, in this case a nickname. Lipia is short for Lippia Citrodoria. Authentic Mexican recipes often use Lipia instead of lemon zest, the finely-grated peel of lemons. 

One way to get the flavor of the whole leaf is to blend Lemon Verbena directly into sugar, with a blender or a food processor. You can use up to ten leaves for each cup of white sugar, then you'll get the lemony flavor without having to sift out stiff bits of the herb. And you can use this sugar in baking, candy, or in making fruit beverages when sugar is added. 

Naturally, whole leaves of Lipia can be used to make tea, agua fresca, and served either hot or cold.