Lemon Balm- A Great Herb

Lemon balm belongs to the family Lamiaceae and its botanical name is Melisa officianalis. This herb has great medicinal properties and is used world wide for treatment of different types of diseases and disorders.

This scented herb is known to mankind for more than 2000 years. For the treatment, its fresh or dried leaves are used. A person can store the fresh leaves of lemon balm in refrigerator in a bag but for few days only. For longer storing periods, leaves should be frozen.

Alternatively, a person can store dried lemon balm leaves in a container. However, any exposure of air, heat or light can reduce the properties of this herb. Some of major constituents of lemon balm that provide  medicinal properties to it are tannins, resin, succinic acid and some essential oils like linalool, citronellal, etc.

Lemon balm infused oil and lemon balm tea are two major preparations used for treatment. Infused oil is made by soaking the leaves in oil for 4-5 days. Leaves can be discarded and oil can be stored in refrigerator.

Lemon balm tea is prepared from dried leaves generally and boiling them in water. A person can add lemon or honey for taste. Tea prepared from lemon balm is widely used as a medicinal preparation. This tea is very effective against disorders like flu and cold.

People who have low blood pressure can also use lemon balm tea for normalizing the same. Other disorders that are treated well with this tea are indigestion, insomnia etc. Since lemon balm has been categorized as carminative herb, it is helpful in disorders of digestive tract also.

In flatulent dyspepsia and spasms, this herb works well as it has good anti-depression properties. Oils present in lemon balm acts between the nervous and the digestive system.

This is the reason why in migraine, lemon balm is recommended. Lemon balm also dilates the peripheral vessels and thus, restores circulatory system by lowering the blood pressure. It also provides tonic effect to heart. In influenza also, it finds good uses. Hot water extract made from lemon balm has great anti-virus properties.

Even for treating herpes simplex, a person can use the extract as a lotion. In treatment of cold sores also, this herb has good uses. Similarly, for soothing the insect bites, which occur very frequently, fresh leaves of this herb can be used.

In a study, it was found that lemon balm also protects the cerebrum against excess stimuli and acts on the autonomic nervous system. Lemon balm is considered as equally safe and good for adults as well as children.