Uses and Benefits of Lemon Balm in Natural Medicine
Lemon Balm is botanically referred to as Melissa officinalis. In Greek mythology, Melissa was a nymph who shared the wisdom and honey of the bees. This herb has a long and wonderful history that dates as far back as Hippocrates. Even Galen, Culpepper, and Shakespeare spoke of its attributes and history!
Lemon balm’s leaves have a mild lemony flavor and are often used in natural medicine, for a variety of benefits.
General Uses of Lemon Balm
Like many mint family members, lemon balm’s energetics aren’t always so clear cut. Maybe this is why Saint Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th-century German Benedictine abbess, wrote in 1100 CE, “Lemon balm contains within it the virtues of a dozen other plants.”
Classified as a relaxing nervine, this amazing herb has been known to calm even hypersensitive nervous systems. Whether the gambit runs from stress to insomnia, lemon balm can help. It blends well with other nervines such as Chamomile to help lower anxieties and depressions. It can also promote sleep when combined with other sedative herbs like valerian. Lemon balm can even reduce the time spent being socially withdrawn.
In addition to calming stress and promoting sleep, lemon balm has long been known as an herb to support cognitive health and brain function. It helps strengthen the brain which in turn helps improve memory, even in older adults.
Therapeutic Actions of Lemon Balm
So, what therapeutic effects does Lemon Balm have on the body?
It is aromatic, meaning in its fresh forms it contains volatile essential oils. Lemon balm works as a stimulant which increases general functional activity. Lastly, lemon balm is also a nervine, which means it strengthens the functional activity of the nervous system specifically.
As an Herbalist, there are many conditions I have used lemon balm for, including:
- Depression
- Anxieties
- Insomnia
- Cognitive health
- Nervous dyspepsia
- Stress related headaches
- Herpes virus
Lemon balm should be avoided if you have hypothyroidism.
Before starting a regiment with lemon balm (or any herb!) it’s always good to work with a trained Herbalist, ND, or practitioner for reasons like this. You can book a consultation with me right here, as I am happy to guide you in this herbal journey!
Lemon Balm Products
Because lemon balm has such a diverse list of uses, it is featured in many products in my Apothecary. Some of my favorites are these!
Just Chillin’ Tea: Helps you relax your mind, soul, and body after a long day or stressful period in your life. Get it here.
Stay Well Tea: A loose leaf tea that helps you maintain optimum health and stay well, no matter the season. Pick some up here.
Antiviral Compound: Lemon Balm can support you body while it deals with certain viruses, and this formula is fantastic for accessing those benefits! Get it here.
(You can see all other lemon balm products right here.)
*For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. (Because why would we want to do that?)