Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is a perennial herb that spreads quickly in gardens with average soil. This citrus-scented herb makes an aromatic tea that most find pleasing and calming. Available in health food stores as a bulk tea or in tea bags, you may also find this herb under the names, bee balm, garden balm and sweet balm. Consult your doctor for advice before using any herb to treat a medical condition.
History
Native to the Mediterranean, lemon balm enjoys a long history of medicinal applications. Dedicated to the Greek goddess, Diana, historical uses include soothing anxiety, treating skin irritations, easing headaches and reducing fevers according to the Gale encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine.
Constituents
Lemon balm contains tannins, which some believe are antiviral, making the herb a popular hot drink for easing cold and flu symptoms, although no clinical studies confirm those benefits. Other constituents include eugenol, which may relax muscle spasms, according to University of Maryland Medical Center, and terpine, a substance that may promote calmness. The FDA does not oversee the production and sale of lemon balm, so consult your doctor for advice before using this herb.
Uses
Still popular for its potential calming properties, according to the website Drugs.com, lemon balm tea may ease indigestion when sipped after meals and it may help insomniacs get sleep. Other uses include reducing agitation in dementia patients and stress reduction. Clinical studies confirming these benefits are lacking.
Dosage
The Gale encyclopedia recommends pouring 2.5 cups of boiling water over two oz. of lemon balm leaves and steeping for 10 minutes before straining and drinking. Sip one cup at a time and store the remainder in the refrigerator for up to two days. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists valerian, hops and chamomile as herbs frequently combined with lemon balm to encourage relaxation.
Contraindications
Lemon balm may interfere with convention sedatives or thyroid medications. The Gale encyclopedia advises pregnant women, glaucoma patients and those with thyroid disorders not to drink lemon balm tea. Do not exceed the suggested dosage unless directed to do so by your doctor.
References
- “Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2”; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Drugs.com: Lemon Balm
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lemon Balm
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