Lemon balm gives off such a sweet smell that in the Middle Ages it was a desirable ingredient to add to wine. The wine could then be used for both internal and external health problems, or drank to lift the spirits. The plant was so esteemed medicinally that Paracelsus, the alchemist of the Middle Ages, believed the plant could revive a man completely, states Botanical.com.
Description
Lemon balm grows up to two feet high, and is a member of the mint family. It smells and tastes much like lemons. The flowers bloom from summer through fall, and may be either yellow or white. The leaves vary in color from a yellow green to a dark green and are deeply wrinkled. The plant is often grown as an addition to herbal gardens. Lemon balm is native to the mountainous southern regions of Europe. The leaves, stem and flowers of the plant can all be used medicinally.
Use
There is reliable scientific evidence that shows that lemon balm is useful as a topical treatment for cold sores caused by the herpes virus, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It has helped to reduce inflammation caused by the virus; however, it does not help to reduce scabbing or pain. There is less evidence for its benefits in treating genital herpes, colic or Alzheimer's disease. Lemon balm has been used for heart difficulties, gas and sleeping problems in traditional medicine. According to the UMMC, you can also use lemon balm with hops, chamomile or valerian to ease anxiety and promote relaxation.
Active Ingredients
The smell of lemon balm is produced by terpenes in the plant. These terpenes may have an effect on relaxing the body and relieving gas, according to the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS). The tannins in the herb are believed to have an antiviral effect, while the eugenol can kill bacteria. Eugenol also has a numbing and calming effect on tissues and muscles, states the UMMC. The anti-herpes properties of lemon balm are believed to come from phenolic acids and flavonoids found in the herb.
Dosage
You can use dried lemon balm herb as a tea by steeping up to 1 tsp. per cup of water for 15 minutes. You can take the tea several times a day, according to the UMHS. A dosage of 2 to 3 mL of lemon balm tincture can be used up to three times per day. The UMHS recommends that you use concentrated extracts at a dosage of 160 to 200 mg a half-hour to hour before you go to bed. If you are using a topical lemon balm cream as a treatment for a herpes cold sore, you can apply it three or four times a day. According to the UMMC, you can use a dosage of 300 to 500 mg of dried lemon balm in capsules up to three times each day.
Precautions
Lemon balm is considered a safe herb. However, the UMHS recommends that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding avoid the use of the herb. It is also possible that lemon balm could interfere with thyroid or sedative medications. You should consult with your doctor before using lemon balm if you are using these types of medications. Lemon balm should also be avoided during menstruation or if you suffer from kidney or intestinal problems, states the Tillotson Institute of Natural Health. It is not recommended for children under age 12 to use lemon balm.
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