High blood pressure, or hypertension, is sometimes called the "silent killer" because people with high blood pressure may not know they have the disorder until they suffer a stroke or heart attack. It's essential that you see your doctor regularly for blood pressure testing and that you follow your doctor's recommended treatment plan. Lemon balm, an herb in the mint family, may be beneficial if stress or anxiety is contributing to an unhealthy blood pressure. However, the herb may interfere with some medications, so talk to your doctor before using lemon balm.
Lemon balm
Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is native to the Europe, but cultivated in many parts of the world, including the United States. The leaves of the plant contain volatile oils, glycosides, flavonoids and ursolic acid, which may be responsible for lemon balm's sedative effect, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines."
Potential benefits
Lemon balm may help you relax, which can reduce elevated blood pressure caused by stress. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists lemon balm as a potential anti-anxiety agent, used to promote sleep and reduce stress. Lemon balm may be combined with other calming herbs, such as valerian or catnip, for better results. However, clinical studies verifying the herb's benefits are lacking.
Dosage
Use fresh lemon balm leaves when available, because the volatile oil gradually diminishes after harvest. The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" suggests making an herbal tea by pouring 2.5 cups of non-chlorinated water over 2 oz. of fresh lemon balm leaves. Steep them for 10 minutes before straining. Store the tea for up to two days in the refrigerator and drink up to three cups of lemon balm tea per day. Lemon balm is also available in tincture and capsule form. Follow the package dosage directions or call your doctor for specific dosing instructions.
Considerations
While lemon balm is generally recognized as safe, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should not use the herb unless directed to do so by their doctors.
Lemon balm may interfere with other sedatives and medications used to treat thyroid conditions. High blood pressure is a serious disorder and self-treating cannot replace professional medical advice. Talk to your doctor before using any herbal remedy.
References
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lemon Balm
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