Lemon Balm Uses

Lemon balm, which is commonly known as Melissa, is a perennial herb of the mint family lamiaceae. It bears white flowers towards the end of the summers. Its bright green leaves have a distinct lemony taste. It is a native of southern Europe, northern Africa and western Asia. The sweet nectar of the flowers attract honey bees. It is this characteristic that gives the plant its scientific name Melissa officinalis, as melissa is the Greek word for bees. Lemon balm uses are numerous. This plant has been used by Arab physicians to treat heart diseases. Even the Greeks and the Romans were known to reap benefits from the various lemon balm uses.

Lemon Balm Uses

Lemon balm uses can be attributed to a number of compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols and terpenes present in the plant. These compounds help in curing a number of ailments. It has a soothing effect on people suffering from stomach problems, and improves the functioning of the digestive system. It provides relief to symptoms like formation of gas and bloating. It also relieves pain and discomfort that may be caused due to indigestion. Chemicals like citronellal and citrals A and B present in the volatile oils of lemon balm have sedative properties that helps lemon balm to induce a calming effect when consumed orally. If it is taken in higher doses it can also induce sleep. Hence, lemon balm is effectively used as an anxiety cure, and to treat nervousness and insomnia.

Case studies on human beings have shown that lemon balm improves memory and increases span of attention in patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This could be due to presence of antioxidants that are believed to protect the cells of our body from the harmful oxidation reactions that release free radicals. Lemon balm is also known to control secretion of the thyroid gland. It has been consequently used to treat Graves' disease which is caused due to excessive secretion of thyroid hormone released by an overactive thyroid gland.

Though till date there is no evidence of the effect of lemon balm against infections caused by fungus and bacteria, ointments and creams containing lemon balm extracts are used successfully in treating infections caused by certain viruses, especially the herpes. Not only do the ointments cure and arrest the spread of the infection, patients who used it have reported relief from symptoms like redness and itching.

Lemon balm is used in aromatherapy to effectively calm overexcited individuals specially those who suffer from dementia. As a cosmetic, lemon balm works wonders when used as a skin cleanser. It is effective in acne prevention when used in steamy facials.

Lemon balm is also reputed as an effective insect repellent. It can be used with other herbs such as lemongrass, rue and lavender. The kitchen table could be rubbed with this herb to keep bugs from contaminating food. Also, some of these herbs when thrown into a campfire or barbecue pit, can repel insects.

Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm is frequently combined with other herbs and plants for added benefits. For example, lemon balm when taken with peppermint helps in curing an upset stomach. Valerian and lemon balm taken together helps in relieving nerve pain and treating insomnia. Besides the taste, it can also be consumed in the form of herbal tea. To prepare lemon balm tea, a few leaves should be put in boiling water. The strength and taste will depend on the length of the steep.

Lemon Balm Recipes

The benefits of this wonder plant can also be reaped by those who know lemon balm recipes like lemon balm pesto, lemon balm vinaigrette, and also lemon balm appetizers and desserts. Lemon balm is used to flavor ice cream and candies. It is also served with certain fruit dishes.

The numerous lemon balm uses have helped human beings to fight diseases, improve health as well as to flavor food. Although its health benefits are many, more research is being done to test its usefulness in treating many other diseases.