Ever heard of Melissa? No, not your friend from yoga class. I’m talking about Melissa officinalis, the superstar herb better known as lemon balm! This perennial herb, native to the East Mediterranean and West Asia, has been a go-to for centuries, and it’s high time you got to know why.
Picture this: it’s the Middle Ages. Knights in shining armor, grand feasts, and… lemon balm? Yep, our medieval buddies used it for better sleep, a calm tummy, and even a little pep in their step. Fast forward to today, and this member of the mint family is still a powerhouse, boasting antibacterial, antiviral, and antispasmodic superpowers. Plus, it’s a mood booster! Who knew, right?
Just brush past those leaves or crush one between your fingers, and you’ll be greeted by a fresh, sweet, and tart lemony aroma. Instant aromatherapy! It’s like having a tiny spa right in your garden. And that’s just the beginning! Lemon balm is a culinary delight, a natural medicine, and so low-maintenance that even the most forgetful gardener can keep it alive. Plus, It’s still very tasty in less-than-therapeutic doses.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Do I really need another plant?” Oh, trust me, you do. Let me give you 13 solid reasons why lemon balm is a must-have in your garden.
1: Lemon Balm Believed to Bring Good Luck and Positivity
Lemon balm, with its charming aroma and versatile uses, has long been regarded as a magical herb, believed to bring good luck and positivity. It’s not uncommon to find it featured in various recipes due to its associations with love, fertility, and wealth.
In addition to its positive connotations, lemon balm is also known for its protective properties. It’s used to ward off evil and invite benevolent spirits. Its pleasant fragrance made it a popular choice for strewing on the floors of Christian churches. In Abruzzi, Italy, there’s a quaint tradition where women who stumble upon wild lemon balm crush a sprig between their fingers, believing the scent will guide them to Heaven with the assistance of Jesus Christ.
Furthermore, lemon balm holds a revered place as an herb sacred to Hecate. According to legend, she imparted the knowledge of lemon balm and other mystical herbs to her daughters, Medea and Circe.
2: Lemon Balm Plant Is a Favorite Among Bees
Lemon balm is a magnet for many beneficial insects, especially bees. Its small, white flowers are rich in nectar, providing a valuable food source. These flowers bloom over an extended period, ensuring a steady supply of nourishment for pollinators.
Did you know that the name ‘Melissa’ holds a fascinating mythological background? It originates from the Greek word for “bee.” According to Greek mythology, Melissa was a nymph who discovered honey and shared it with the gods and humanity. Isn’t that intriguing? She was revered as the patroness of bees, believed to protect them and ensure their well-being. Over time, the name Melissa became linked with both bees and lemon balm, a plant that bees absolutely adore.
In the first century, Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder wrote that lemon balm planted near bee hives would encourage bees to return. Later, Gerard claimed that rubbing the leaves on a hive would “causeth the Bees to keep together and causeth others to come unto them.”
This historical connection not only highlights the plant’s long-standing relationship with bees but also adds an intriguing layer to its lore. The myth of Melissa reminds us of the deep, ancient bond between humans and bees.
3: A Great Multipurpose Permaculture Plant
Permaculture aims to create a self-sustaining, vibrant ecosystem, and lemon balm is a star player in this mission. Let’s break down how this aromatic herb can benefit your garden.
Lemon balm is like a VIP invite for bees and other pollinators, essential for plant reproduction, ensuring your fruits and veggies flourish with better yields. While it’s great at drawing in the beneficial bugs, its strong lemony aroma keeps pesky critters like mosquitoes and gnats at bay. This means fewer pests and a healthier garden without resorting to chemical pesticides.
Lemon balm also contributes to soil health in multiple ways. Its roots enhance soil aeration, and as the plant decomposes, it enriches the soil with organic matter, boosting fertility and structure. Incorporating lemon balm into your permaculture garden is a smart move for anyone looking to foster a robust, thriving ecosystem.
4: Lemon Balm Is One of the Easiest Herbs to Grow
Lemon balm is an excellent choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance plant. It thrives in a variety of soil types, although it prefers rich, well-drained soil with an acidic pH level of 6 or less. This adaptability makes it easy to cultivate in different environments.
The plant can grow in full sun or part shade, offering flexibility to gardeners with varying light conditions. Once established, lemon balm requires very little watering, as it can endure dry periods without significant stress.
Pruning is simple. Regularly trim the plant to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too tall or leggy. Removing no more than 25% of the plant’s foliage ensures continued health and productivity.
5: Natural Remedy for Anxiety
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has long been valued for its calming effects on the nervous system, often used to ease feelings of anxiety and stress. Its active compounds, including terpenes and flavonoids, enhance mood and calmness without causing drowsiness, making it perfect for daytime anxiety management.
Several studies have demonstrated the benefits of lemon balm in reducing anxiety. A study published in the journal Nutrients found that participants who consumed lemon balm extract experienced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to a placebo group. The study attributed these effects to the presence of compounds like rosmarinic acid, which modulates gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Recent research continues to support these findings. For instance, a 2023 study published in the journal Phytomedicine found that lemon balm extract significantly reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality in participants with moderate anxiety disorders. The study suggested that the herb’s anxiolytic effects are due to its ability to increase GABA levels and reduce cortisol, a stress hormone.
Additionally, a 2024 study published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine reported that lemon balm extract not only reduced anxiety symptoms but also enhanced overall cognitive function and memory in older adults. This study highlighted the potential of lemon balm as a dual-purpose treatment for both anxiety and cognitive decline, emphasizing its safety and efficacy for long-term use (source).
Whether consumed as a tea, tincture, or supplement, this herb offers a scientifically supported, natural alternative for those seeking relief from anxiety.
6: Lemon Balms Repels Mosquitoes and Annoying Bugs
Lemon balm is a great natural option for keeping bugs at bay, offering a safe alternative to chemical repellents.
This herb contains various compounds that insects dislike. Citronellal, with its strong lemon fragrance, repels mosquitoes and flies. Geraniol, found in many essential oils, is effective against ants and cockroaches and is commonly used in insect repellents. Eugenol, which serves as a fly repellent, also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it useful in gardens. Citral, another lemon-scented compound, is effective in deterring mosquitoes and ticks.
For ages, gardeners have used lemon balm to keep mosquitoes away by rubbing its leaves directly on their skin.
There are multiple ways that you can also use the lemon balm on your skin to help repel mosquitoes. My favorite two ways are to make a tea out of it and use the tea on the skin or to make a tincture.
Lemon balm is safe for children, providing a natural, worry-free solution for families.
7: Enhance Memory and Cognitive Function
Lemon balm is great for cognitive health, boosting memory and problem-solving skills for all ages. Research from Northumbria University showed that young adults taking lemon balm capsules outperformed those on a placebo in memory tests, proving its cognitive benefits.
Moreover, lemon balm positively affects brain tissue and receptors linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Elaine Perry from Newcastle General Hospital found that dried lemon balm leaf, used traditionally, can enhance memory and complement Alzheimer’s treatments.
A study in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry also found that lemon balm extract improves cognitive function in those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.
These benefits are due to eugenol, a strong antioxidant, and its ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, keeping acetylcholine levels high, essential for memory. Rosmarinic acid in lemon balm also reduces brain inflammation and oxidative stress, making it a powerful natural remedy for mental clarity and focus.
8: Lemon balm to Soothe Your Upset Stomachs and Digestive Woes
Lemon balm, known for its refreshing lemony aroma, has been a trusted remedy for calming digestive disorders for ages. This medicinal herb, from its leaves to its flowers, is packed with phenolic compounds and terpenes that boost digestive health, addressing a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
One of lemon balm’s standout qualities is its ability to relax the smooth muscles of the intestines, reducing gastrointestinal spasms. Acting as an antispasmodic, it eases the digestive tract muscles, facilitating smoother digestion and reducing discomfort. This can alleviate excessive gas and bloating, making it a natural option for those dealing with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Additionally, lemon balm boasts antibacterial properties, protecting against digestive infections. It can inhibit the growth of certain harmful bacteria while supporting beneficial gut flora. It even contains compounds that may combat H. pylori, a bacteria linked to stomach ulcers.
Moreover, lemon balm serves as a cholagogue, encouraging the liver to produce more bile, which is essential for digesting fats. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with gallbladder issues or difficulties digesting fatty foods.
9: Lemon Balm Help Ease Insomnia and Other Sleep Disorders
Lemon balm has long been cherished for its ability to tackle sleep issues. Known for its calming properties, it effectively reduces anxiety that can disrupt a peaceful night’s rest. Packed with stress-relieving compounds, lemon balm promotes relaxation and supports a healthy sleep cycle. Its natural abilities also make it a great ally in combating insomnia by reducing restlessness and aiding in achieving a good night’s sleep.
When paired with other calming herbs like chamomile, lemon balm becomes even more powerful. A cup of lemon balm tea before bed can work wonders in helping you relax and drift off more easily.
An older study highlighted the benefits of lemon balm combined with valerian in treating sleep problems and restlessness in children. This study, which involved over 900 children, revealed that more than 80% experienced improvements in their sleep issues with the supplements. Additionally, 70% saw a reduction in restlessness, and none of the children had any adverse effects.
For a soothing bedtime ritual, try brewing a tea with lemon balm leaves and chamomile or valerian root. It’s a natural, effective way to unwind and ensure a restful night’s sleep.
10: Lemon Balm Is Great for Herbal Teas
Lemon balm tea is a delightful way to tap into the herb’s healing powers, particularly its calming effects. As you sip, the essential oils gently rise from the cup, creating a soothing experience. Fun fact: the word “balm” comes from “balsam,” highlighting its sweet, honey-like aroma.
Lemon balm tea, cherished since ancient times, lifts the spirit and calms the nervous system. Renowned Swiss physician Paracelsus dubbed lemon balm the “elixir of life.” Even Charles V enjoyed Carmelite water, a blend of lemon balm, lemon peel, nutmeg, and angelica root. This “miracle water,” crafted by French Carmelite nuns, was said to improve memory, vision, and alleviate various aches and fevers.
Regardless of the claims for extending life, lemon balm tea is recommended. It’s perfect for winding down before bed, soothing digestion, and warding off colds and flu. The gentle lemony taste pairs beautifully with chamomile and mint.
Making this tea is a breeze. Steep fresh or dried leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy it warm or chilled, solo or mixed with other herbs for an extra health boost.
11: To Get Zesty with Lemon Balm in Your Drinks!
Lemon balm has been sneaking into our drinks for ages, and its soft, lemony aroma still wins hearts today. Whether you’re diving into old-school brews or getting creative with new recipes, this versatile herb is sure to be a hit.
It’s not just for tea! Lemon balm is a superstar in chilled drinks too. Toss it in your lemonade for a light, citrusy twist that’s refreshingly different. And if you’re into homemade cocktails, it adds a natural, aromatic flair that’s hard to beat.
Looking for something simple yet delightful? Infuse your water with lemon balm. You’ll get a subtly flavored, calming drink that’s perfect for those scorching days. Its soothing properties have made it a favorite in cordials and meads over the years, adding a touch of tranquility to every sip.
12: Lemon Balm Infused Recipes You Won’t Be Able to Resist
Lemon balm isn’t just for herbal remedies; it’s a fantastic addition to your culinary adventures. Its zesty, lemony flavor can transform everyday dishes into something special.
Try tossing some chopped leaves into your salads for a burst of citrusy goodness. They’re also a surprise hit in baked goods like cakes and cookies, adding a refreshing twist that’s sure to delight.
Blend lemon balm into your smoothies or sorbets for a fresh, vibrant taste. You can also infuse it into syrups, sauces, and marinades to give them a subtle lemony lift.
For a fun twist on pesto, swap out basil for lemon balm. It also pairs beautifully with fish and chicken, enhancing their flavors with a gentle hint of citrus. And don’t forget, lemon balm makes a wonderfully soothing herbal tea or a simple, aromatic infused water that’s perfect for any time of day.
13: Lemon Balm is Good in Bath & Body Products
Lemon balm is a fantastic addition to bath and body products. Its essential oils provide a soothing aroma and stress-relieving properties, making it perfect for relaxation.
The herb’s antibacterial properties help keep skin clear and healthy, while its anti-inflammatory effects soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.
For a refreshing hair rinse, fill a jar ¾ full with lemon balm leaves and cover them with apple cider vinegar. After a few days of infusing, you’ll have a perfect hair rinse.
For a soothing bath soak, swap out mint for lemon balm to enjoy a relaxing and aromatic experience. You can also create a calming foot soak by adding fresh lemon balm leaves to warm water, providing relief for tired feet.
Additionally, lemon balm-infused oil can be a great massage oil, helping to relax muscles and improve skin texture. For a quick skin toner, steep lemon balm leaves in hot water, let it cool, and use it as a refreshing facial spray.
