Materia Medica: Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a versatile herb cherished for its pleasant lemony scent, medicinal properties, and culinary uses. As a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), lemon balm is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. This comprehensive monograph will explore the botanical characteristics, medicinal properties, therapeutic uses, cultivation, and harvesting of this fantastic calming herb.

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Botanical Characteristics

Lemon balm is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and wide (but it can grow larger). It has square stems, characteristic of the mint family, and its leaves are heart-shaped, deeply veined, and emit a lemony fragrance when crushed. The small, white to pale yellow flowers bloom in the summer and attract bees, which is reflected in its genus name “Melissa,” meaning “bee” in Greek. This plant, being a part of the mint family, can take over a garden bed, so if you’re not wanting that to happen, do plant in a pot.

Identification

• Leaves: Opposite, heart-shaped, with a serrated margin and a lemon scent.
• Stems: Square, typical of the mint family.
• Flowers: Small, white to pale yellow, blooming in clusters.

Medicinal Properties

Lemon balm is renowned for its calming effects and is commonly used to address various ailments. It contains several active compounds, including rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and volatile oils, which contribute to its medicinal properties.

Key Constituents

• Rosmarinic Acid: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidant properties.
• Volatile Oils: Citronellal, geraniol, linalool, and citral, which contribute to its calming and antimicrobial effects.

Therapeutic Uses

Nervous System

Lemon balm is well-known for its calming effects on the nervous system. It is used to treat anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Studies have shown that lemon balm can improve mood and cognitive function. A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that lemon balm extract reduced anxiety and improved memory and calmness in participants (Kennedy et al., 2003).

Digestive System

Lemon balm is also beneficial for the digestive system. It helps relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas. Its carminative properties make it useful for soothing the digestive tract and reducing spasms. A study in Phytomedicine demonstrated the efficacy of a combination of lemon balm and other herbs in relieving functional dyspepsia symptoms (Von Arnim et al., 2011).

Antiviral and Antimicrobial

The antiviral properties of lemon balm make it effective against viruses like herpes simplex virus (HSV). Topical application of lemon balm cream has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of cold sores. A study in Phytomedicine confirmed the antiviral activity of lemon balm extract against HSV (Allahverdiyev et al., 2004).

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory

Lemon balm’s high antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation. This makes it valuable in preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall health. Research published in Food and Chemical Toxicology highlighted the antioxidant potential of lemon balm extracts (Dastmalchi et al., 2008).

Cultivation and Harvesting

Growing Conditions

Lemon balm is an easy-to-grow herb that thrives in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for successful cultivation:

• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, partial shade is preferred.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Propagation

Lemon balm can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.

• Seeds: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
• Cuttings: Take cuttings from healthy plants and root them in water or a well-draining potting mix.
• Division: Divide mature plants in the spring or fall to propagate new plants.

Harvesting

Harvest lemon balm leaves in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. This is when the essential oils are at their peak.

• Fresh Use: Use fresh leaves for teas, culinary dishes, and herbal preparations.
• Drying: Dry the leaves in a well-ventilated, shaded area. Store dried leaves in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

Preparation and Uses

Herbal Tea

Lemon balm tea is a popular way to enjoy its calming effects. To prepare:

1. Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of fresh or 1 teaspoon of dried lemon balm leaves.
2. Method: Steep the leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and enjoy.

Tincture

Lemon balm tincture is a concentrated extract that can be used for various ailments.

1. Ingredients: Fresh or dried lemon balm leaves, high-proof alcohol (vodka or brandy).
2. Method: Fill a jar with lemon balm leaves and cover with alcohol. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.

Topical Applications

Lemon balm can be used topically for cold sores and skin irritations.

1. Lemon Balm Cream: Apply a lemon balm-infused cream to cold sores to reduce symptoms.
2. Infused Oil: Infuse lemon balm leaves in a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil) and use it for massages or skin applications.

Putting it all together

Lemon balm is a valuable herb with a rich history of medicinal use. Its calming effects, antiviral properties, and digestive benefits make it a staple in herbal medicine. Easy to grow and versatile in its applications, lemon balm is an essential herb for any herbalist’s garden. Whether used in teas, tinctures, or topical preparations, lemon balm offers numerous health benefits supported by scientific research. By incorporating lemon balm into your herbal practice, you can harness its healing potential and enjoy its delightful lemony aroma.

Scientific Studies

Several scientific studies support the medicinal uses of lemon balm:

• Anxiety and Cognitive Function: Kennedy, D. O., Little, W., & Scholey, A. B. (2003). “Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm).” Journal of Psychopharmacology, 18(4), 213-217.
• Digestive Health: Von Arnim, U., et al. (2011). “Efficacy of a herbal preparation in patients with functional dyspepsia: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial.” Phytomedicine, 18(8-9), 769-778.
• Antiviral Activity: Allahverdiyev, A. M., et al. (2004). “Antiviral activity of Melissa officinalis L. against herpes simplex virus type-2.” Phytomedicine, 11(8), 657-661.
• Antioxidant Properties: Dastmalchi, K., et al. (2008). “Chemical composition and in vitro antioxidant evaluation of a lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) extract.” Food and Chemical Toxicology, 46(5), 1885-1891.

Let me know if you’ve tried lemon balm tea in the comments below! If you make anything with lemon balm tag me on instagram @herbanfarmstead. And if you’d like to learn how to make a simple folk tincture, check this post out here!