Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

Botanical Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Botanical Description

Melissa officinalis is a bushy perennial growing 30-80cm tall with square stems and opposite, oval, toothed leaves. The foliage releases a delightful lemon scent when crushed. Small white to yellowish flowers appear in leaf axils, highly attractive to bees. The plant spreads via underground runners and can become vigorous.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Nervine, anxiolytic, antiviral, carminative, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, thyroid-modulating.

Traditional uses: Used since ancient Greek times to “gladden the heart.” Carmelite nuns made the famous “Carmelite Water” with lemon balm as the main ingredient. Swiss physician Paracelsus called it the “elixir of life.”

Modern research: Clinical studies support use for anxiety, sleep, cognitive function, and topical treatment of cold sores.

Body Systems Affected

Nervous: Calms anxiety while improving mood and mental clarity. Promotes restful sleep.

Digestive: Relieves gas, bloating, and nervous stomach.

Immune: Antiviral, particularly against herpes simplex virus (cold sores).

Endocrine: May modulate thyroid function.

Safety Information

Very safe with a long history of use as both food and medicine.

Thyroid: May reduce thyroid hormone levels. Those with hypothyroidism or taking thyroid medication should use with caution.

Sedatives: May enhance effects of sedative medications.

Pregnancy: Generally considered safe in normal culinary/tea amounts.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 4-9. Very adaptable.

Light: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Average, well-drained soil. Not fussy.

Sowing: Surface sow in spring. Or propagate from divisions.

Spacing: 30-45cm apart. Spreads vigorously.

Harvesting

Part used: Leaves and flowering tops.

When to harvest: Before flowering for best flavor; during flowering for medicine.

Method: Cut back plants 2-3 times per season.

Drying & Storage

Dry quickly at low temperature to preserve volatile lemon aromatics. Store in airtight containers away from light. Best used within 6-12 months – loses potency faster than many herbs. Fresh tinctures preserve the medicine well.