Lemon Balm Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses
Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis
Properties: Antibacterial, Antihistamine, Antidepressant, Anti-viral, Sedative, Antispasmodic, Carminative, Digestive stimulant, Tonic, Radiation side effects protector
What is Lemon Balm?
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family scientifically known as Melissa officinalis. It originated in Europe in the Middle Ages and was widely used as a calming agent both in its dried form and as an essential oil extract. Today, lemon balm is grown worldwide and lends itself well to home gardens and indoor pots. Bees are highly attracted to lemon balm.1 The lemon balm plant grows to 2 feet tall or more, if it’s unkempt. In spring and summer, lemon balm produces small clusters of light yellow flowers that grow where the leaves meet the stem. These flowers produce a powder that, when rubbed on the fingers, give a tart and sweet smell much like citrus lemons.1 Lemon balm is available as dietary supplements in teas and capsules as well as topical applications in essential oil, creams and ointments.3
Lemon Balm Health Uses and Health Benefits
Lemon balm health benefits have been known for centuries. Traditional lemon balm uses include being used to treat battle wounds, relieve insect bites and provide aromatic effects during religious ceremonies. Its soothing and uplifting odor has been called “the essence of spring”, and so lemon balm for anxiety is another traditional use of this natural remedy. Today, lemon balm health benefits make it a staple ingredient in many medicines.1 2 3 Experiencing a calming and soothing effect is a primary lemon balm health benefit. There are many lemon balm uses for health and natural treatments including:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder - Lemon balm for anxiety is an effective treatment because it contains chemicals that cause a relaxing effect. Cyracos is a specific product that reduces symptoms in people who have generalized anxiety disorder.
- Stress - Stress is a physical and mental condition that can affect the entire body. Lemon balm contains known ingredients that quickly work to calm the nerves and reduce symptoms from stress.
- Sexually Transmitted Disease - Herpes or cold sores are a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be treated by applying lemon balm. Products containing as low as 1 percent lemon balm extract shortens healing time, prevents infectious spreading and reduces overall STD symptoms.
- Depression - The spiritually uplifting effects of lemon balm work to relieve overall depression and increase good mood.
- Mononucleosis - Mono is caused by the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV). Lemon balm works as an antiviral herb that has specific effect on EBV and is one of the best natural remedies for mononucleosis.
- Alzheimer’s Disease - Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can be improved by taking lemon balm supplements. Calming effects from lemon balm reduce anxiety and agitation that Alzheimer’s patients experience.
Lemon Balm Side Effects and Precautions
Lemon balm side effects include internal reaction like upset stomach, nausea and vomiting as well as abdominal pain, dizziness and wheezing. Topically, some people experience lemon balm side effects such as skin rash and itchiness.4 Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid ingesting lemon balm as ingredients will be passed to children who may have intolerance.4 Lemon balm has a proven treatment for anxiety. It should not be taken in conjunction with sedative and thyroid medications. This may cause lemon balm side effects such as excessive drowsiness or unconsciousness.1 4