Lemon Balm

Figure 1. The Lemon Balm plant.

Lemon Balm or Melissa officinalis is a perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family Lamiaceae (which the Lavender plant can also be found). Lemon Balm is native to south-central Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, Iran, and Central Asia. The leaves have a mild lemon scent.

Lemon Balm has many commercial uses. The leaves are used as an herb, in teas and also as a flavouring. The plant is used to attract bees for honey production. Lemon Balm is also grown as an ornamental plant and for its oil (to be used in perfumery), and can be added to food and drinks as flavouring. 

Lemon Balm contains the phytochemicals eugenol, tannins, and terpenes. These chemicals appear to have a sedative and calming effect. They may also reduce the growth of some viruses and bacteria. As a supplement, Lemon Balm is mainly promoted to help improve mood, stress, anxiety, and cognitive function. Other benefits may include helping with insomnia, mild sleep disorders, cold sores, indigestion, nausea, menstrual cramps, headaches, and toothaches. However, there is insufficient scientific evidence presently to conclusively support these applications of Lemon Balm.