Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis), lovingly referred to as “your friend, Melissa,” is a hearty, lemon-scented plant in the mint family known for lifting the spirits (just like the company of a good friend!). This lovely herb is frequently found in gardens throughout the world. It has a rich history of use in many botanical medicine traditions from a wide variety of cultures. 

Overall Go-to Herb 

Many herbalists consider Lemon Balm to be a bright, sunny companion relied on for a wide variety of ailments. Its gentle nature and reputation for soothing and harmonizing functions in the body like digestion, circulation, nerves, and immunity make this a common go-to herb for both novice herb students and seasoned professionals alike. Lemon Balm’s refreshing fragrance and flavor of soft lemon make it delicious as a single herb remedy or as an addition to any herbal formula. Children of all ages (even mamas!) delight in rubbing the leaves of Lemon Balm in the garden to release the magical aromas found within.

Known to Brighten Mood and Soothe Irritability

Lemon balm has a rich history of use as a general mood brightener for relieving both overly anxious or lower moods. It’s commonly used to assist with overall relaxation of tension. Some more modern reports claim that Lemon Balm works with the brain to keep GABA, a feel good amino acid, circulating and soothing for longer periods of time, which can have a calming and quieting effect. Kind of like sending the kids outside to play so you can hear yourself think! 

Could Improve Digestive Strength

It is frequently found in formulas created to support healthy digestive function and ease uncomfortable symptoms such as gas, bloating, and indigestion. This is an extremely important action because a strong digestive system creates the foundation for physical, mental, and energetic health. Empirical evidence and current research show that in small-to-moderate amounts of Lemon Balm induces a calm, pleasant state immediately upon ingestion. This calm state can play an important role in proper digestive function. Our enteric nervous system lines the digestive system from the esophagus to the stomach, to the intestines, and beyond. When we are in a relaxed state during mealtimes, every digestive organ can function more optimally. This, in turn, assists in improving overall health. 

May Support Healthy Immune Function

Additionally, Lemon Balm is prized for its potential to gently, yet powerfully support healthy immune function. This herb is a common go-to to support the body when dealing with viral outbreaks and is often included in remedies used to soothe the body during a variety of acute infections. Studies suggest that Lemon Balm may improve the health of cell walls and assist in supporting an overall healthy immune response in the presence of potential infections. This support is further enhanced by the herb’s antioxidant compounds. 

Compounds found in Lemon Balm have also been shown to promote gentle sweating during fevers. This cools the body and brings relief from discomfort. This herb’s reputation for positive effects on overall health makes it a wonderful tonic herb that can offer benefits in a wide variety of circumstances.