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Uses of Lemon Balm

September 14, 2009


Lemon balm belongs to the mint family. For several centuries, this herb, a native of the Mediterranean region, is used for treating several illnesses.

Lemon balm is a perennial herb whose botanical name is Melissa officinalis. The mild lemon-like fragrance of its leaves has given it the name lemon balm.

Lemon balm is usually consumed in the form of tea. Extracts of lemon balm are used for making herbal medicines. Oil extracted from the lemon balm oil is used in topical medications and in aromatherapy.

Promotes sleep

The gentle aroma of lemon balm soothes the nervous system. Smelling lemon balm leaves or lemon balm essential oil can reduce stress and anxiety. This herb helps to sleep.

Lemon balm is therefore beneficial for people suffering from insomnia. In herbal sedatives, lemon balm is sometimes combined with other sleep inducing herbs such as valerian or chamomile. Studies have shown that lemon balm can improve mood and increases mental alertness.

It can also improve memory. Researchers have found that lemon balm could increase the attention span of Alzheimer’s disease patients.

Skin disease remedy

Lemon balm is good for the skin. It is used for treating lip sores caused by herpes. Lemon balm can also reduce irritations caused by insect bites. Cold sores can also be healed with lemon balm.

Pain relief

Lemon balm can heal wounds and reduce pain.

Remedy for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, characterized by overactive thyroid gland, could be treated with lemon balm. It is especially useful for treating hyperthyroidism caused by Graves’ disease. Lemon balm inhibits the antibodies produced because of Graves’ disease from attaching themselves to the thyroid gland receptors, therefore obstructing secretion of excessive thyroid hormones.

Cures cramps

Lemon balm helps the muscles to relax. It can produce relief from muscle contractions. Premenstrual syndrome cramps and muscle spasm produced by irritable bowel syndrome could be treated with lemon balm.

Good for digestive health

Lemon balm is also recommended for healing nausea and flatulence.


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