Lemon balm's delicate fragrance and flavor have made it a popular plant for kitchen gardens since the Middle Ages. In addition to being used to flavor foods, lemon balm was recommended for numerous ailments, including stress, loss of appetite, insomnia and indigestion. Today, researchers are finding potential benefits in using lemon balm to treat cold sores, Alzheimer's disease, colic, genital herpes, indigestion and insomnia, but additional research is needed to make a definite recommendation for lemon balm's use in treating these conditions, says the University of Michigan Health System.
Step 1
Swallow capsules made from dried lemon balm. Take 300- to 500-milligram-sized doses of lemon balm three times a day or as needed, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 2
Make tea with dried or fresh lemon balm, and drink up to four cups per day. To make the tea, steep either one teaspoon of dried lemon balm or one generous scoop of fresh lemon balm leaves in one to two cups of hot water for about 15 minutes. Strain the tea through a tea strainer into a cup. Lemon balm has a delicate refreshing flavor, but you can add a little honey or lemon if you like.
Step 3
To make a toner to treat herpes sores or cold sores, crush two to four tablespoons of fresh lemon balm leaves into a cup of boiling water, and let the leaves steep for 10 to 15 minutes. When the liquid has completely cooled, dip a cotton ball into it, and apply a little of the mixture directly to your sores throughout the day as you need to. Ointments containing lemon balm may also be helpful in treating herpes sores.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have leftover fresh lemon balm, you can serve it as you would any herb. Add it to salads, sandwiches or poultry dishes. You can serve lemon balm tea hot or iced. Lemon balm is frequently combined with other herbs. Teas designed to soothe upset stomachs typically contain lemon balm and peppermint, while teas to promote sleep often include lemon balm and valerian.
- Though research hasn't confirmed it, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that lemon balm has the potential to interfere with the effects of some sedatives and thyroid medications. Always check with your doctor before adding herbs to your self-care regimen.
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