Lemon balm

Melissa officinalis

Part used: Leaves
Botanical family: Lamiaceae

Lemon balm is a soft-leaved member of the mint family with an unmistakable lemon scent. Its essential oil (citral, citronellal) gives it a prized double action: calming the nervous system while relaxing the digestive muscles. The plant of choice when nerves 'go to the stomach'.

Traditional uses

Nervous stomach
Tension and irritability
Stress-related digestion

Traditionally used for

nervous stomachanxietystress digestionirritabilitymild insomnia

How to prepare it

Infuse fresh or dried leaves for 5 minutes, covered so the aroma doesn't escape.

Pairs well with: Linden, Chamomile, Valerian

Ask us about this plant

Other plants with similar uses

Valerian

Valeriana officinalis

Linden

Tilia platyphyllos

Passionflower

Passiflora incarnata

This information reflects traditional uses of plants for general guidance and does not replace advice from a health professional. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, ask before using them.