Identification of Lemon Balm
Botanical Name: Melissa officinalisFamily: Lamiaceae (mint family)Appearance:Height: 1–3 feet (30–90 cm)Leaves: Bright green, ovate with slightly serrated edges, deeply veined, and emit a strong lemon scent when crushed.Stems: Square-shaped (typical of mint family).Flowers: Small, pale yellow to white (sometimes light pink), appear in late spring to summer, not especially showy.Scent: Strong lemon aroma, especially when leaves are bruised.Habitat: Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean but naturalized worldwide; thrives in temperate climates, prefers sun to partial shade.Historical Uses of Lemon Balm
Ancient Greece & Rome: The Greek physician Dioscorides recommended it for calming nerves and treating wounds.Middle Ages: Used in “melancholy” (depression), stress, and heart tonics. Monks in European monasteries cultivated it in physic gardens.Avicenna (Persian physician): Praised it for “making the heart merry” and as a treatment for sadness and fear.Carmelite Water: A famous 14th-century elixir made with lemon balm and alcohol by Carmelite monks to treat nervous tension and digestive issues.Victorian Era: Infused into teas and balms for nervous disorders and anxiety.Medicinal Benefits (Modern Uses)
Anti-Anxiety & Calming Agent
One of lemon balm’s most common modern uses.Acts as a mild nervine (calms the nervous system).Shown to reduce stress, restlessness, irritability, and mild depression.Sleep Aid
Often used in herbal formulas for insomnia or to help improve sleep quality.Synergistic when combined with valerian root or passionflower.Cognitive Support
Some studies suggest lemon balm may improve focus, alertness, and memory, especially in low doses.May benefit those with Alzheimer’s disease or age-related cognitive decline.Digestive Health
Traditionally used to relieve indigestion, bloating, nausea, and gas.May soothe upset stomach due to stress.Antiviral Properties
Shown to have effectiveness against herpes simplex virus (HSV), especially in topical treatments (e.g., for cold sores).Used in salves and creams for this purpose.Mild Pain Relief
Has antispasmodic properties—can help with menstrual cramps, muscle tension, and headaches.How to Use Lemon Balm
Forms
Fresh or dried leaves (tea, culinary, topical preparations).Tincture (alcohol extract).Essential oil (use diluted; powerful and concentrated).Capsules/tablets (standardized extracts).Creams & ointments (especially for cold sores or skin conditions).Safety Notes
Generally safe for adults and children.Avoid high doses if hypothyroid (may mildly suppress thyroid function).Essential oil should always be diluted; can be irritating in pure form.May interact with sedatives or thyroid medications—check with a healthcare provider.Notable Mentions in History
Charlemagne ordered lemon balm to be planted in every monastery garden in his empire.Paracelsus called it the “elixir of life” and claimed it could rejuvenate the mind and body.Mentioned in Shakespearean herbal lore as a herb of cheerfulness and strength.Use my Amazon Affiliate* link to buy high quality dried lemon balm leaves from Frontier Co-op
DIY Lemon Balm Bug Repellent Spray
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves (or ½ cup dried)1 cup water½ cup *witch hazel (or rubbing alcohol for longer shelf life)10 drops* lemongrass essential oil (optional, for extra repellency)10 drops* lavender or *citronella essential oil (optional)Small spray bottle (4–8 oz, dark glass preferred)Instructions:
Make the Herbal Infusion:Bring the water to a boil.Pour over lemon balm leaves in a heatproof container.Cover and let steep for 30–60 minutes (or until cool).Strain the Liquid:Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all plant material.Discard or compost the used herbs.Mix the Repellent:Combine the strained lemon balm tea with witch hazel in a spray bottle.Add essential oils (if using). Shake well.Label & Store:Label the bottle with contents and date.Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks (or longer if using alcohol instead of witch hazel).How to Use:
Shake before each use.Spray lightly on skin, clothing, or around windows/doors.Avoid spraying near eyes or open wounds.Reapply every 2–3 hours or after heavy sweating.
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