Historically, Lemon Balm was a well known herb in nearly all home gardens throughout Europe and North America. When I planted my little seedlings last year in one of my raised beds, I underestimated the growth that would occur in one year. I have since split the plant, given some to a neighbor and moved it to a location where it can grow its little heart out!

I have grown to love Lemon Balm so much! In this post I will share the very many things that make this herb a super star!

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Common Name: Lemon Balm

Botanical Name: Melissa officinalis

Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Botanical Description :

Lemon balm is a bushy, upright perennial herb that typically grows 24-32 inches tall. It features square stems that branch out and become woody at the base with maturity. The plant's most distinctive feature is its bright green, ovate to heart-shaped leaves, which measure 1-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. These leaves have serrated or scalloped edges and a slightly wrinkled, fuzzy texture due to fine hairs on their surface. They are arranged oppositely on the stem. Lemon balm produces small white to pale pink flowers, about 1/8 to 1/5 inch in length, which grow in clusters where the leaves meet the stem. When crushed or bruised, the leaves release a strong, pleasant lemon scent, giving the plant its common name.

Native Area:

Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region

Geographic Distribution:

Widely cultivated throughout Europe, North America, and parts of Asia

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Uses by Systems - Lemon Balm support for the Body:

Nervous System:

Nervous system effects: Lemon balm is a nervine, meaning it has a calming effect on the nervous system. It can ease:

Anxiety and stress relief, Mild depression

Insomnia and sleep disorders
Cognitive enhancement and improved focus
Potential management of dementia and Alzheimers symptoms (see research study below)

The research is very encouraging for those whose loved ones are suffering from dementia and Alzheimers. For supporting cognition and agitation a daily tea or tincture are good ways to incorporate this herb into the diet. Another option would be to a glycerite, which is sweet and may be more palatable if it is hard to get the tea or tincture incorporated daily.

Digestive System:

Lemon balm has antispasmodic properties, which means it can help relax smooth muscle tissue in the digestive tract. It is particularly helpful when a nervous disposition is involved in the digestive complaints. Lemon balm can:

Soothe gastric discomfort and bloating especially when nervous energy is the cause
Ease nausea
Support symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The combination of actions on the nervous and digestive systems makes lemon balm particularly useful for addressing what's sometimes called the "brain-gut axis" - the connection between our mental state and our digestive function. When we're stressed, our digestion can be disrupted, and lemon balm helps address both sides of this equation

Immune System:

Potential antiviral properties, particularly against Herpes Simplex Virus

Lemon balm has shown promising effects in supporting the immune system and managing herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. Its antiviral properties are primarily attributed to its high content of polyphenols and rosmarinic acid. These compounds may help inhibit viral replication and attachment to host cells, potentially reducing the severity and duration of herpes outbreaks. Lemon balm also has immunomodulatory effects, which can help balance the immune response. This is particularly important in managing herpes, as an overactive immune response can sometimes contribute to outbreak severity. Additionally, lemon balm's calming properties may help reduce stress, which is often a trigger for herpes outbreaks. While not a cure, regular use of lemon balm, either topically (as a salve of lip balm) or internally, may help support the immune system in managing herpes infections more effectively.

Endocrine System:

May support regular thyroid function

Lemon balm may play a role in supporting regular thyroid function, particularly in cases of mild hyperthyroidism. Its potential thyroid-modulating effects are attributed to certain compounds that may inhibit the binding of antibodies to the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor, potentially reducing excessive thyroid hormone production. The rosmarinic acid, has been shown to have mild thyroid-suppressing properties. Additionally, lemon balm's calming effects on the nervous system may indirectly support thyroid health by reducing stress, which can impact thyroid function. These effects have been observed in some studies, more research is needed to fully understand lemon balm's impact on thyroid function.

Cardiovascular System:

Mild hypotensive effects

Potential to ease palpitations associated with anxiety

Lemon balm has shown promising effects on the cardiovascular system, particularly in relation to mild hypotension and anxiety-related palpitations. Its mild hypotensive properties may help gently lower blood pressure, potentially due to its ability to promote vasodilation and reduce peripheral vascular resistance. This effect is often attributed to its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Additionally, lemon balm's anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties play a crucial role in addressing palpitations associated with anxiety. By calming the nervous system and potentially modulating GABA receptors, lemon balm may help reduce the perception of heart palpitations and ease the anxiety that often accompanies or exacerbates them. This dual action on both the cardiovascular and nervous systems makes lemon balm a potentially valuable herb for those experiencing mild hypertension or anxiety-related heart palpitations

Uses for Children:

Lemon balm is generally considered safe for children when used appropriately. It can be particularly helpful for:

1. Calming hyperactivity and promoting relaxation

2. Improving sleep quality and easing mild insomnia

3. Easing stomach discomfort and supporting digestion

4. Relieving anxiety and stress, especially related to school or social situations

5. Supporting focus and concentration for children with attention difficulties

6. Soothing symptoms of mild viral infections

For children, adjust dosages according to age and weight, and consult with a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns. To learn about dosages for children, check out this post.

Chemical Constituents:

Rosmarinic acid and other phenolic compounds
Essential oils (citral, citronellal, linalool)
Flavonoids (quercitrin, rhamnocitrin)
Triterpenes (ursolic and oleanolic acids)

Energetics:

Lemon balm is considered cooling and slightly drying. It has an uplifting yet relaxing effect on the body and mind. Its aromatic properties make it both calming and clarifying.

Preparations and Dosage:

1. Tea: Standard infusion of 4-8 oz, three times a day

2. Tincture: 1-3 ml, three times a day

3. Essential oil: Used in aromatherapy and topical applications (dilute properly)

4. Fresh leaves: Added to salads, desserts, or as a garnish

5. Glycerite: A sweet, alcohol-free preparation ideal for children (1-2 ml, three times a day for children over 6)

Safety and Contraindications:

While generally considered safe, lemon balm may interact with sedatives, thyroid medications, and HIV medications. It should be used with caution in individuals with thyroid disorders.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Research and Clinical Studies:

Recent studies have supported lemon balm's traditional uses, particularly in areas of stress reduction, cognitive function, and neurological health:

1. A 2014 study published in Nutrients found that lemon balm improved cognitive performance and mood in healthy adults.

2. A 2015 study in the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing stress and depression in nursing students.

3. A significant study on lemon balm and dementia was published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry in 2003. This randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of lemon balm extract on patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. The results showed that patients receiving lemon balm extract experienced significant improvements in cognitive function and reduced agitation compared to those receiving a placebo. This study suggested that lemon balm could be a valuable option for managing symptoms of dementia, particularly in addressing agitation and improving quality of life for patient

4. A follow-up study in 2011 in the Journal of Medicinal Food further supported these findings, showing that lemon balm extract could improve cognitive performance and increase calmness in healthy adults.

These studies provide scientific support for lemon balm's traditional use in improving cognitive function and mood, as well as its potential in managing symptoms associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Interesting Historical Facts:

1. The genus name "Melissa" comes from the Greek word for "honeybee," as the plant is known to attract bees.

2. Lemon balm has been used medicinally for over 2000 years, with records dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.

3. In the Middle Ages, it was used to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, and ease pain and discomfort from indigestion.

4. Carmelite water, a popular 14th-century tonic, used lemon balm as a key ingredient and was believed to improve memory and vision

As you can see, Lemon balm is a versatile and gentle herb that offers numerous benefits for both adults and children. Its pleasant aroma and taste make it an enjoyable addition to both medicinal preparations and culinary dishes, while its wide range of therapeutic properties make it a valuable herb. The recent research on its potential benefits for cognitive health and dementia management adds to its significance in modern herbal support.

Nicholas Culpepper, a famous herbalist from the 1600’s wrote in Culpepper’s Complete Herbal, “let a syrup be made with the juice of Lemon Balm with sugar be kept in every gentlewoman’s house to relieve the weak stomachs and sick bodies of their poor sickly neighbors.”

So let us go forward learning about the herbs, growing as we are able and helping those around us if we are blessed to do so.

Until next, Blessings and wholeness, to you and yours!

Lemon Balm