The Natural Health Benefits of Melissa or Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family, native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. The leaves have a slight lemon scent to them, and it bears small white to pink flowers. It can grow to approximately two feet high. Bees and butterflies are very attracted to the nectar of the flowers, which can help your garden flourish though pollination.

This herb is easy to grow and cultivate. It likes sandy soil and is shade tolerant, unlike many herbs. Plants are easily started by cutting stems and rooting them in water. It is also easy to grow them from seeds. Lemon balm is very self-procreating, and can take over a garden fairly quickly under the right conditions. To prevent it from taking over, plant your lemon balm in a separate pot.

Lemon balm or Melissa is used as flavoring in desserts such as ice cream but is primarily used in herbal teas. Lemon balm is commonly blended with other herbs to make a very refreshing iced tea. Lemon balm or Melissa herbal tea is claimed to have some antibacterial and antiviral uses. It can also be used as a mild sedative. There have been studies that show it to be effective in reducing stress, although the studies are still inconclusive. The antibacterial qualities have been scientifically proven, however they are much less effective than a number of other options. The leaves can be used as an mosquito repellant when they are crushed and rubbed on the skin.

Melissa essential oil is extracted from the lemon balm plant's fresh flowering tops and leaves through steam distillation. The chemicals found in Melissa oil include trans-ocimene, cis-ocimene, 3-octanone, metyl hepenone to name a few.

Melissa oil is said to calm the nerves and fight depression. It has a sedative effect and can help in the treatment of hysteria and panic attacks. It can help slow the heartbeat and lower blood pressure.

It has also been claimed to settle the digestive system, treat vomiting, flatulence and dysentery. Herbologists claim it can help with headaches and migranes and when started early enough can be a topical treatment, in cream or lotion form, for cold sores.

Melissa oil is non-toxic but could cause allergic reactions or sensitization and irritation and should be used in a diluted form. Women who are pregnant and people with sensitive skin should avoid it.

Remember that natural therapies and herbal medicines should be used adjunctively or complementary to traditional medical treatment. Self-treating serious ailments can be dangerous and possibly life threatening. Always seek out medical assistance when it is needed.

References

Janet C. Maccaro, Natural Health Remedies: An A-Z Family Guide, Siloam Press, 2003

Amy Rost, Natural Healing Wisdom & Know How: Useful Practices, Recipes, and Formulas for a Lifetime of Health, Black Dog & Leventhal Publishing, 2009.