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Lemon Balm

Botanical Name

Melissa officinalis

Common Name

Lemon balm, melissa, balm mint, balm, sweet balm, honey plant, heart’s delight

Family

Lamiaceae

Parts Used

Leaves, aerial parts

Native To

Southern Europe and the Mediterranean

Harvesting Guidelines

Lemon balm can be harvested for its fragrant leaves and stems using a knife or sickle bar. To ensure proper regrowth, it is best to cut the plant 6-8 inches above the ground. Under optimal conditions, lemon balm can be harvested two to three times per season. For the highest concentration of volatile oils, it is recommended to harvest the plant just before the flowers begin to open.

Introduction

Lemon balm, scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, is a perennial herb in the mint family that has been cherished for centuries for its calming and soothing properties. With its mild lemon scent, it is a versatile plant that has been used for medicinal, culinary, and aromatic purposes. Native to the Mediterranean region, it has spread throughout the world, where it is commonly cultivated for its therapeutic uses. It is particularly known for its ability to support the nervous system, alleviate stress, and enhance cognitive function. Lemon balm is also used in treating digestive issues, and recent research has even highlighted its antiviral effects.

Indigenous, Folk, and Traditional UsesHistorically, lemon balm was associated with promoting relaxation and was used to treat a variety of nervous system disorders. Ancient Greek and Roman cultures revered it for its calming properties. In fact, the plant's genus name, Melissa, comes from the Greek word for "bee," as it was believed that bees were attracted to its fragrant flowers. In folk traditions, it was often used to alleviate anxiety, stress, and insomnia. In the 10th century, Persian physicians such as Shapur ibn Sahl recommended lemon balm for treating palpitations, sadness, and other nervous conditions.

In European folk medicine, lemon balm was often grown in monastery gardens, where it was used to soothe emotional disturbances, ease digestive issues, and reduce symptoms of nervous tension. It was also considered a "balm for the heart" and was frequently used to lift the spirits and promote mental clarity.

Scientific Studies and Modern ResearchModern research has provided significant evidence supporting lemon balm's traditional uses, particularly its effects on the nervous system. Studies have shown that lemon balm can effectively reduce anxiety and promote calmness, often being used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and even mild depression. One study demonstrated that lemon balm extract can improve mood and cognitive function, making it useful for conditions like mild cognitive impairment.

In addition to its calming effects, lemon balm has been found to have antiviral properties, particularly against the herpes simplex virus. It is commonly used in topical applications to treat cold sores and other viral outbreaks. Furthermore, studies suggest that lemon balm's ability to reduce symptoms of anxiety is related to its effects on the GABA receptors in the brain, which are responsible for promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

Historical BackgroundLemon balm has a long history of use dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It was mentioned by the famous Greek physician Dioscorides, who recommended it for nervous disorders and as a remedy to uplift the spirit. The Roman poet Virgil noted its popularity with bees, while Pliny the Elder mentioned its calming effects. During the Middle Ages, lemon balm was commonly cultivated by monks and used to treat a variety of ailments, especially stress and digestive issues.

In medieval Europe, lemon balm was regarded as a universal remedy for ailments such as indigestion, melancholy, and anxiety. It was also used in love potions and as a fragrant herb to calm the senses. Its use was widespread, and it became a key component in many traditional remedies for mental and emotional health.

Modern UsesToday, lemon balm is widely used in herbal medicine to treat stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It is often included in formulations aimed at promoting relaxation and mental clarity. In addition to its use in treating mood disorders, lemon balm is used for digestive problems like bloating, indigestion, and gas. It is also included in many skin-care products for its antimicrobial and soothing properties.

Lemon balm’s reputation as a soothing herb has led to its inclusion in various wellness products, including teas, tinctures, essential oils, and capsules. It is commonly paired with other calming herbs like valerian, chamomile, and passionflower in formulas designed to promote deep relaxation and restful sleep.

Adult Dose

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons of dried lemon balm in 8 fl oz of hot water, 2-4 times per day
Tincture: 3-5 mL of 1:5 tincture, 3-4 times per day
Cold infusion: 0.5 oz dried lemon balm in 1 quart water, drink 4-8 fl oz, 1-4 times per day

Safety

Lemon balm is considered generally safe when used appropriately. However, individuals with thyroid conditions (especially hypothyroidism) should exercise caution, as lemon balm may mildly inhibit thyroid function. It is also recommended to consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on any thyroid medications.

Actions

Analgesic
Antidepressant
Antimicrobial
Antioxidant
Antispasmodic
Antiviral
Anxiolytic
Carminative
Diaphoretic
Nervine
Radioprotective
Trophorestorative

Energy

Cooling
Drying

References:

Winston, M.L., Slessor K.N., Rubink, W.L., & Villa, J.D. (1993). Enhanced pheromone lures to attract honey bee swarms. American Bee Journal, 133(1), 58-60.
Kaplan, D., & Dosiou, C. (2021). Two cases of Graves’ hyperthyroidism treated with homeopathic remedies containing herbal extracts from Lycopus spp. and Melissa officinalis. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 5 (Suppl. 1), A971.
Ghazizadeh, J., Mohammadinasab, R., Travica, N., Sadigh-Eteghad, S., Torbati, M., Hamedeyazdan, S., … Araj-Khodaei, M. (2022). Historical course of neuropsychiatric effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) as a medicinal herb. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 28(2), 224-231.

Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.

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