Lemon Balm

What is Lemon balm?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant belonging to the lipflower family (Lamiaceae). During and after the flowering period, the leaves take on a more balmy smell and taste due to the presence of tannins, hence the English name of lemon balm; lemon balm. However, lemon balm is not related to the citrus fruit.

The plant is native to Southern Europe and Central and Western Asia. But now it is also abundant in the Netherlands, including in feral form in urban areas. This perennial herb grows and spreads so easily that some gardeners consider it a weed.

Lemon balm can grow to a height of one meter. It has a quadrangular stem and during the summer, white-yellow to light purple lipped flowers are formed with 4 stamens each. These attract many butterflies and bees, hence the botanical name Melissa which is Greek for honey bee. It is an important producer of the raw material for honey; nectar. Lemon balm is therefore also known as honey balm or bee balm.

It is also a well-known kitchen herb because of its aromatic, lemony smell and taste. That smell and taste come from the ingredient citronellal, also known from anti-mosquito spray. This strong odor disrupts the strong sense of smell of mosquitoes.

Image Lemon balm: Wikipedia

What is the effect of Lemon balm?

The oval to heart-shaped green leaves of lemon balm have been used for more than 2000 years as a phytotherapeutic remedy for a variety of ailments due to its high content of active ingredients. Tea can be drawn from the fresh or dried leaves or a tincture can be made from them (extract of the herb in alcohol).

The leaves contain several flavonoids (such as quercetin, rhamnocitrin, luteolin and kaempferol) and phenolic acids / polyphenolic compounds (such as caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid and rosemary acid). Therefore, lemon balm is sometimes standardized to at least 5% rosemary acid.

In addition, it contains many other active constituents including various terpenes (monoterpenes, triterpenes and sesquiterpenes), monoterpene glycosides, tannins (tannins), bitter substances, and essential oils (citral a/b and citronellal).

Soothing and good for sleep*

Lemon balm is used primarily for its calming effect. It helps to stay mentally and physically balanced during periods of stress. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on sleep function; it can help promote sleep readiness and to wake up rested.

Does Lemon balm have side effects?

Because of its relaxing effect, it is advisable to be careful with other herbs or agents that also have sedative effects (such as St. John's Wort and alcohol).

Combinations

Lemon balm is often used in combination with other plants or herbs that also have a sedative effect. To promote sleep quality and quantity, it can be combined with Valerian.

Other commonly used combinations are with the adaptogen Rhodiola Rosea and the amino acid L-Theanine.

Safety

Lemon balm is not dangerous. It is actually a very safe herb. However, some people may be allergic to it. If you are allergic to lemon balm or related herbs, do not use this supplement.

People with an underactive thyroid may also be better off not using lemon balm. There are indications that the plant can slow down the functioning of the thyroid.

Lemon balm is good for*:

• Brain
• Sleep

* EC approval health claims pending.