Lemon balm is one of the best herbs to always have on hand, and one of my personal favorites as a mom, herbalist, and someone who has faced chronic illness. It is one of the most gentle and gracious ways to introduce plant medicine into your life, especially if you find herbs intimidating. It’s truly an herb I feel can work with anyone’s body and has such a special calming ability.
Lemon balm is in the mint family, however it has more of a sweet taste to it and is delicious in any herbal tea or culinary dish that it’s added to, fresh or dried.
It’s latin name, Melissa, comes from the Greek word “honeybee” due to the love that bees have for the plant. It not only produces a great amount of nectar, but it also keeps the bees from swarming.
OVERVIEW
Lemon balm is an incredible relaxing nervine, meaning that it soothes and supports the nervous system. It serves as an ally for anxiety, restlessness, nervousness, insomnia and general unease.
One of the most prized therapeutic benefits of Lemon Balm in my eyes is how powerful of an anti-viral this herb is. It is simply one of the best for acute and chronic viral infections, such as covid, long covid, EBV, and herpes. Melissa is actually one of the most beneficial for HSV (herpes simplex 1 and 2). I love learning from The Medical Medium, who discusses how underlying viral infections are the culprit to a vast majority of modern disease and dysfunction within the body. Addressing the root cause and attacking these viruses that tend to stick around much longer than we think, takes the unnecessary stress off of our system and allows us the capacity to heal and get back into balance.
It provides calming effects on the digestive system. It relieves stagnant digestion and can help relieve pain associated with indigestion, and it also helps with “nervous stomach”. Sometimes, an unwanted symptom of anxiety and nerves is nausea or general tummy problems— lemon balm is a go to for that specifically. It will also relieve inflammation, bloating, gas, and aids liver function.
It aids in situations of heart palpitations and a “buzzy” feeling that accompanies nervousness.
It can be used for children who are teething to help alleviate the pain and discomfort.
It can be useful for an overactive thyroid.
Can benefit women by promoting the onset of menstruation and easing period cramps.
HOW IT WORKS WITH THE BODY
Lemon balm is considered a safe herb. Use caution if taking a central nervous system suppressing medication.
it’s always best to try new herbs in small amounts and to consult with your physician prior to taking any new herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.
CAUTIONS
Check out our offerings that contain Lemon Balm:
*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical/health advice. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before taking any actions based upon such information, it is encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals. Please consult with your physician prior to the use of any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.