As an herb, Lemon Balm (also called Melissa Officinalis):
- Relaxes the mind & reduces stress
- Induces sleep (!)
- Sharpens memory
- Lowers blood pressure
- Settles the stomach, and eases digestion
The Tao of Tea, Lemon Balm Herbal Tea, Loose Leaf, 2.0-Ounce Tins (Pack of 3)
As an essential oil (used in massage and as a salve) Lemon Balm:
- Acts as a uterine “tonic” & reduces cramping
- Cures cold sores (herpes simplex)
- Soothes skin problems & inflammation (apply topically to insect bites, cuts, abrasions, & acne lesions)
- Reduces swelling (muscles & joints) and treats gout
- Uplifts and calms the spirit (when used with massage)
“Balm is sovereign for the brain, strengthening the memory, and powerfully chasing away melancholy.”~John Evelyn (1620-1706)
History
It’s difficult to say exactly how long Lemon Balm has been around…some say it dates back to the 14th century. It was a popular herbal remedy during the Middle Ages and it continues to this day. As a tea, it soothes frazzled nerves & allows the mind/body to relax and sleep. Used as an essential oil in a neutral base (plant based massage oil or beeswax salve) it heals and restores the balance of the skin as well as relieves swelling (welcome relief for sore muscles!). Lemon Balm is safe enough to use in children, and is only contraindicated in those taking thyroid medication, or with an under-active thyroid.
Planting
Lemon Balm is a member of the mint family, and is very easy to grow. It “starts” best when the weather is cooler (spring or fall) and grows well indoors in a sunny location. It makes an excellent container plant, and is a bee & butterfly attractant when the flowers bloom in summer. Lemon Balm enjoys moist soil (well drained/sandy) and will tolerate semi-shady conditions. The plant can reach up to 24 inches tall, and should be given at least 12 inches between individual plants to “spread”. Sow the tiny seeds without covering with soil & keep moist until germination. Harvest leaves before the plant produces flowers for maximum herbal “strength”. Dry completely before storing. Remove dry flowers to prevent reseeding.
Seeds of Change Certified Organic Lemon Balm, 200 Seed Count
Tea
Steep 1 tsp dried herb in 8 oz. hot water (boiled).
Massage Oil
10 drops Lemon Balm (or Melissa) essential oil to 4 oz. base oil (olive, sweet almond, grape seed, or hazelnut).
Culinary
- Fresh leaves as a garnish or mixed in a salad.
- Dried herb used to accent meat (fish or chicken), vegetables, and fruit.
- Blended with brown rice, it gives a subtle lemon flavor & fragrance.
- Makes an interesting additive to your favorite light vinegar (such as rice wine) to make a vinaigrette type of salad dressing.
- Infused in oil, it can be used in place of garlic oil.
“Lemon Balm causeth the mind and heart to become merry”~ Nicholas Culpeper, 16th century botanist & herbalist
Lemon Balm is considered a cooling herb, which is most welcome in warmer months. The oil can also be used in spring water (10 drops to 4 oz water) as an insect repellent (it pairs well with lavender oil) to chase away mosquitoes. Mist on clothing (rather than on skin) as essential oils can sometimes cause photo sensitivity.
* For best “mood enhancing” results, alternate sipping Lemon Balm tea with Borage.
About Victoria
Thanks for all the detailed information here! I have been growing lemon balm for about 12 years, and for about 5 years I’ve been drying it to make tea. A few years ago I did a cold infusion with it. How does the strength of that vary to an essential oil. I know there’s a big difference, but how much potency will you get with making a massage oil by doing it this way?
The tea vs. the essential oil is very different. Essential oil is the “life blood” of the live plant which is processed via steam distillation. This forces the oil out of plant material and is highly concentrated. The essential oil travels through the surface of the skin and into the tissues. It is said that essential oil can be detected in urine 30 min. after applying it on the skin. The tea is much less potent, since you’re using dry leaves infused in water. This method is more practical if you’re simply looking for a quick soothing drink to relax. Essential oils can be used in the bath, massage, as a compress, or as a healing agent (such as a skin cream). Beware of inexpensive Melissa Officinalis oil. You can expect to pay about $35-$40 per ml for the “real thing”. Only a few drops are needed per oz of carrier oil, and can be blended with other soothing oils for scent (such as lavender or geranium) and to keep the cost down.
Where can I get this from. Can’t find it anywhere. Please help me. My daughter gets cold sores all the time and nothing works. She has used all of the creams balms. You name it she used it.
Debe,
The link in the article that says “lemon balm salve 1 oz.” goes to Amazon, it’s less than $10.You’ll find it after the list of healing qualities. It also comes in a 2 oz. size.