Lemon Balm Effects

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, has been used as a medicinal herb since the time of the ancient Greeks. It gets its name from the lemony smell of the leaves, and it's also used as a culinary herb to provide a lemon-mint flavor to certain dishes. Medicinally, it's usually taken as an herbal tea or infusion. Use about an ounce of fresh leaves per cup of hot water; drink up to three times a day. Avoid if you have thyroid problems or glaucoma.

Eases Menstrual Symptoms

Lemon balm tea can be used to ease menstrual cramps as well as the symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome, especially bloating. It is believed by herbalists that lemon balm's relaxing effect is responsible for the symptomatic relief the herb provides.

Calmative

Lemon balm tea has also traditionally been recommended by herbalists for its calming effects. It is consumed to relieve anxiety and insomnia and to treat tension headaches. Lemon balm seems to act as a mild sedative, so be careful when combining with other sedative drugs or herbs.

Treats Digestive Complaints

Drink lemon balm tea to ease an upset stomach, relieve nausea, and reduce intestinal gas. Lemon balm's effectiveness in this area may have more to do with easing nerves than with any direct action on the digestive system.

Anti-Herpes

Lemon balm shows promise as an herbal treatment for herpes lesions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Topical application of a lemon balm cream have been shown to help heal cold sores and reduce their recurrence.