Lemon balm / Melissa balm / Melissa officinalis is one of my very favorite herbs. Its refreshing scent has a way of instantly making me smile.
It has a sweet lemony taste that adds a unique and enjoyable aspect to anything you create with it.
Lemon balm makes a delicious tea, whether it is used alone or combined with others herbs. I love cooking with lemon balm. I especially enjoy adding it to guacamole, an essential in my home.
Beyond simply tasting wonderful, lemon balm is an herb with many benefits. Lemon balm is a nervine, which means it naturally calms down the nervous system.
Lemon balm has been shown to uplift the spirit, reduce stress and anxiety, improve appetite, promote sleep by easing insomnia, and ease pain and discomfort from indigestion. [1]
Lemon balm’s mild antispasmodic effects will help soothe cramps, gently stimulate the liver, and enhance digestion. [2]
Lemon balm has also been found to help improve cognitive function and decrease agitation in people with Alzheimer’s disease. [1]
Topically, lemon balm is used to heal wounds, treat insect bites and stings, and reduce cold sores. [1]
Lemon balm is a potent antiviral and can be of great help during viral illnesses such as colds or the flu. It can assist the body in fighting infection while easing the discomfort and restlessness that can sometimes accompany illness. [2]
Lemon balm leaves contain phytochemicals called terpenoids and polyphenols called tannins which contribute to its relaxing and antiviral effects. Lemon balm also contains eugenol which is a phytogenic bioactive component that calms muscle spasms, numbs tissues, and kills bacteria. [1]
Lemon balm grows quite easily. If you decide to grow lemon balm, keep that in mind when you’re deciding where to plant it. It will spread prolifically in whichever area you allow it.
If you would rather purchase lemon balm, you can buy it in the form of loose dried herb, glycerite, tea, powder, or capsule.
I hope you enjoy lemon balm as much as I do!
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References:
[1] Penn State Hershey. (2015, January 2). Lemon balm. In Penn State Hershey. Retrieved from http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=107&pid=33&gid=000261&print=1
[2] Justis, A. (2015, June 25). A Family Herb: Lemon Balm Benefits. In Herbal Academy. Retrieved from https://theherbalacademy.com/a-family-herb-lemon-balm-benefits/