Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis Lamiaceae)

Other Names: Balm, Common Balm, Balm Mint

Lemon Balm, a herbaceous perennial native to the eastern Mediterranean and now widespread in Europe, grows to about 70 cm with erect, hairy stems forming dense clumps. Its serrated, oval leaves with pronounced veins emit a strong lemon scent. White or pink flowers appear where leaves meet the stem, producing small brown fruits.

Parts for Use

Leaves

1. Collected from June to September at the start of flowering and dried outdoors.
2. Used for extracts, capsule powders, or essential oil production.
3. Traditionally incorporated into sweet drinks.

Ingredients

Lemon Balm contains flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids, notably rosmarinic acid. Its essential oil, primarily citral, is produced in small quantities, making it one of the most expensive essential oils.

Use in Treatment

Lemon Balm is commonly used for digestive issues like slow digestion, bloating, swelling, vomiting, and stomach cramps, with studies confirming its effectiveness in soothing cramps and aiding digestion. German research from 2001 supports its benefits for indigestion symptoms. It also treats mild insomnia, nervousness, and depression, often combined with herbs like littleleaf linden, hawthorn, or passionflower. A 2001 Spanish study validates its use for improving concentration and calming excessive activity in children. A 2003 Iranian study suggests it reduces anxiety and symptoms in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Its antiviral properties aid in herpes treatment, and it may help manage hyperthyroidism by affecting thyroid hormone secretion.

Cultivation

Grow in moist soil in a sunny or slightly shaded spot, sowing seeds or using cuttings in fall or spring.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Bloating, Swelling, Nausea, Nervous Problems)

1. Infusion: Steep 2–3 grams of dried leaves in a cup of boiling water, strain, and drink 1 cup around noon and evening after meals.
2. Capsules (200 mg powder): Take 1 capsule 3 times daily before meals; children take 2 capsules daily.
3. Soluble Extract: Add 50 drops to a glass of water and take 3 times daily.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Avoid long-term use due to potential reduction in gonadal hormone activity.