Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

A favorite among herbalists. This sweet and humble herb is a powerhouse of healing. Full of lemony terpenes, this herb has the most refreshing aroma. It's high content of essential oils also makes it an excellent digestive aid, moving gas through the digestive system and calming a nervous stomach.

Lemon balm is used for mild depression and anxiety, and is considered by herbalists to be a "trophorestorative" to the nervous system. This means that it helps to restore imbalances to the nervous system through nutrition.

Lemon balm is an appropriate remedy for neuralgia, insomnia and migraines associated with tension.

Lemon balm has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system. It causes a mild vasodilation of blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.

This wonderful herb is also teeming with antiviral properties, making it an excellent preventative for colds and flu. It's antiviral properties also make it an effective topical treatment for herpes outbreaks.

Lemon balm is helpful in managing hyperthyroidism and in treating hormonal imbalance by inhibiting the effects of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) on the thyroid gland.

We should all be growing some lemon balm in our gardens. It is so very easy to grow and will come back year after year. It is a favorite among pollinators- especially bees.

Lemon balm is an excellent cooking herb as well. It adds a tangy flavor to salads, dressings, sauces and baked goods.