Lemon balm is a medicinal herb native to southern Europe. Traditionally, lemon balm is used to alleviate sleeping difficulties and gas. This herb may also help your skin heal faster if you have oral cold sores or genital sores caused by herpes simplex virus. Despite these health benefits, more research is needed to support these medicinal uses of lemon balm. Before taking or using lemon balm, discuss the safety and dosing guidelines of this herb with your medical provider.
Overall Safety
When used as directed, lemon balm is generally regarded as safe. However, mild side effects may occur while you're using this natural supplement, including dizziness, wheezing, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting. If any of these side effects persist or become severe, seek prompt care from a doctor. Avoid taking lemon balm if you're pregnant or breast-feeding. Due to an increased risk of excessive sedation, stop taking lemon balm at least two weeks before undergoing surgery.
Capsule Dosage
In capsule form, lemon balm can be taken by adults in 300 mg to 500 mg dosages up to three times per day, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains.
Tincture Dosage
A lemon balm tincture is a liquid supplements containing lemon balm extract and alcohol. Adults can take 2 mL to 3 mL -- which is equivalent to approximately 40 to 90 drops -- of lemon balm tincture up to three times each day.
Tea Dosage
To prepare lemon balm tea, steep 1.4 g to 4.5 g of dried lemon balm herb in a cup of hot water. Adults may drink up to four cups of this medicinal tea daily.
Topical Dosage
Topical lemon balm creams can be applied directly to the skin up to three times daily, or as recommended by an herbalist or medical professional. Alternatively, you can prepare topical liquid lemon balm solution by steeping 2 tsp. to 4 tsp. of crushed lemon balm leaf in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. After allowing this mixture to cool, you can apply the medicinal liquid to your skin with a cotton ball.
Member Comments