Lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is a perennial herb from the mint family, renowned for its vibrant lemony scent and numerous health benefits. This versatile herb has been cultivated for centuries and is highly valued for its medicinal properties, skincare uses, and rich folklore.
Once this wonderful herb finds its place in your garden, it tends to easily make itself at home. Lemon balm possesses a wide range of medicinal properties, making it a popular choice in traditional and alternative medicine. The herb contains volatile oils, including citronellal, citral, and geraniol, which contribute to its distinct aroma and therapeutic effects.
Medicinal properties
Some notable medicinal properties of lemon balm include its deeply calming and relaxing effects. It is often used to reduce anxiety, stress, and promote relaxation. Lemon balm also aids digestion by soothing the digestive tract and alleviating symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, and stomach cramps. There is also some belief that lemon balm can be beneficial for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, lemon balm has antiviral properties, particularly against certain strains of herpes viruses, and can help in the treatment of cold sores and genital herpes. Its antibacterial properties contribute to wound healing and infection prevention. Lemon balm has also been traditionally used to uplift mood, combat mild depression, and reduce nervousness.
Lemon balm offers various skincare benefits, making it a popular ingredient in natural beauty products. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can calm and soothe irritated skin. Lemon balm can be used topically to alleviate symptoms of conditions like eczema and dermatitis. The herb contains a high concentration of flavonoid antioxidants, which help protect the skin against free radicals and oxidative stress, contributing to maintaining a youthful and healthy complexion. Lemon balm’s antimicrobial properties make it beneficial in skincare formulations targeting acne-prone or blemished skin, as it may help inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Growing and Harvesting
Lemon balm is a perennial herb that typically grows up to 2-3 feet in height. It features soft, light green leaves with a distinct lemon fragrance when crushed. The leaves are oval-shaped and deeply veined, giving them an attractive appearance. Lemon balm produces small, inconspicuous white or pale pink flowers during the summer months.
Harvesting lemon balm is best done in the morning when the essential oils are at their peak. You can trim the stems just above a set of leaves, encouraging new growth. The leaves can be used fresh or dried for later use.
Growing lemon balm is very easy. The plants prefer rich, well drained soil, in full sun, but will grow almost anywhere. Don’t worry about fertilizing lemon balm, – this can cause the strength of its lovely scent to be reduced.
Lemon balm can quickly spread throughout your garden. Lemon balms close cousins, peppermint and spearmint, spread rapidly through their roots. Lemon balms however, spreads rapidly by seed. It is recommended to remove the flowers of the plant as soon as they appear to help control its spread.
folklore
Lemon balm has a rich history of folklore and cultural significance. In ancient Greek and Roman mythology, it was associated with the goddess Melissa, who was believed to protect bees. Consequently, lemon balm was planted near beehives to encourage bee populations and honey production. It was also believed to have magical properties and was used in love potions, as it was thought to attract romantic relationships. In European folklore, lemon balm was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote good luck.
Lemon Balm Summer Crush
Ingredients:
- Fresh Lemon Balm leaves
- 2 cups of water
- Ice cube trays
Instructions:
- Start by infusing the fresh Lemon Balm leaves in 2 cups of water. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the Lemon Balm leaves in a tea pot. Use as many Lemon Balm leaves as you can fit into the pot, ensuring they are fully covered by the water.
- Allow the Lemon Balm infusion to sit in the sun for a while to absorb some solar energy. This step is optional but can enhance the flavour.
- After sun-infusing, place the tea pot with the Lemon Balm infusion in the refrigerator and let it chill for 24 hours.
- Once chilled, strain off about half of the liquid and pour it into ice cube trays. Freeze the trays until the liquid becomes ice cubes.
5. Return the remaining Lemon Balm tea back to the refrigerator.
6. When the ice cubes are frozen, strain the remaining Lemon Balm tea to remove any leaves or sediments.
7. In a blender, combine the cold Lemon Balm tea and the Lemon Balm ice cubes. If your blender has a crush setting, use that. Otherwise, use a setting that will achieve a desired consistency.
8. Blend the mixture until the desired consistency is reached. The result should be a refreshing and playful Lemon Balm Summer Crush drink.
9. Serve and enjoy your homemade Lemon Balm Summer Crush!
In summary, lemon balm is a remarkable herb with diverse medicinal properties and skincare uses. From promoting relaxation and aiding digestion to soothing skin and uplifting mood, this herb has much to offer. Its refreshing lemon fragrance and captivating folklore add to its allure, making it a beloved and versatile herb in the realm of natural remedies and skincare.
I am growing lemon balm and can’t wait to use it. It smells so good. Thanks for your knowledge and recipe. 🙏