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plant profile
Lemon Balm
LATIN NAME
Melissa officinalis
MEANING
Brings love; Cure; Joke; Pleasantry; Sympathy; Wishes to be fulfilled
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Lemon Balm
About
Lemon balm’s scientific name is Melissa officinalis, and it belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The aerial parts of lemon balm are used.
Active Constituents
Volatile oils, flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols.
Sowing & Growing
For the best results, I usually start sowing lemon balm indoors in the spring, typically around mid-March. Just scatter the seeds on the surface or carefully place them in plug trays, then cover with a really thin layer of soil and press it down a bit. It can take a few weeks for the seeds to germinate, so be patient and make sure to keep the soil nice and moist.
Since lemon balm is pretty vulnerable to frost damage, especially when it’s young, it’s best to wait until you’re sure the last frost has passed before planting them outside. If you decide to plant them out early, just keep an eye on the weather and be ready to cover them with fleece if there’s any chance of overnight frost.
Harvesting & Prep
Capturing the healing essence of Melissa can be quite a challenge. It holds delicate essential oils, which makes it pricey, and much of its wonderful scent fades when dried. Even as a tincture, it doesn't shine as brightly. However, with a bit of care and attention, you can really embrace its gentle aromas and soothing qualities.
To get the best from it, harvest the bright Spring leaves before it flowers, when the stems are still tender and not yet woody. Cut the stems into small sections and arrange them evenly on drying racks. Keep the temperature low, around 35°C, and let them dry overnight. Once they're done, store them in an airtight container to keep that precious goodness intact.
Therapeutic Properties
Analgesic, antihistamine, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiviral, carminative, decongestant, diaphoretic, nervine, sedative, and uterine tonic.
Traditional Uses
Lemon balm has traditionally been used as a soothing and calming remedy for the nervous system. It helps to relieve stress, tension, anxiety, aids sleep, eases headaches and migraines, palpitations, and stress-related hypertension.
It also improves mood and concentration. As a decongestant, diaphoretic, and antiviral, it is a useful herb during respiratory tract infections, especially at the earliest stages of the illness.
Its antiviral nature is helpful when the immune system is weakened and vulnerable to minor viral infections. Lemon balm, like German chamomile, is an excellent digestive remedy, especially when tension is at the root of the problem. It is particularly useful for allaying nausea and vomiting.
