Lemon Balm - Melissa

Melissa Officinalis

Balm, Honey Plant, Bee Balm

Family: Labiatae
 
Part used: Aerial parts
 
Constituents: Essential oil, bitter principles, acids, tannin and resin
 
Actions: Diaphoretic, antispasmodic, carminative, emmenagogue, stomachic, sedative, antispasmodic
 
Systems affected: Lungs, liver, nerves
 
Used for: Diaphoretic, calminative, antispasmodic, carminative, emmenagogue, stomachic, sedative, antispasmodic
 
Lemon Balm is extremely calming to the whole of the system, relieving all tensions, anxieties and depressive states
 
It is equally beneficial to muscular spasms and cramps of the digestive tract, relieving flatulence and dyspepsia
 
Lemon Balm is a general tonic to the heart and circulation and has an influence in raised blood pressure. It reduces palpitations, tension or stress related headaches, neurasthenia and excitability
 
Diaphoretic properties useful in feverish conditions and at the onset of 'flu
 
Externally and internally for Herpes simplex
 
Because of its gentle properties and pleasant flavour it is suitable for children and those who tend to be sensitive to the strong bitter flavour of most herbs
 
Since it removes surface tension from the body it is effective as a treatment for nervous tension and depression
 
Externally an ointment made with lemon balm leaves demonstrated a high degree of effectiveness in relieving the symptoms of herpes simplex, tincture can be applied neat to cold sores
 
To strengthen the brain in its resistance to shock and stress; low spirits, restlessness, fidgety limbs, "cold and miserable", anxiety neurosis - protects the cerebrum of the brain and is effective in the treatment of autonomic disorders - an action similar to modern tranquilisers
 
"Balm is sovereign for the brain. It strengthens the memory and chaseth away melancholy" John Evelyn
 
Topical applications to the temples sometimes used for insomnia or nerve pain
 
Flavenoids, polyphenolics and other compounds appear to be responsible for Melissa's anti-herpes and thyroid regulating actions. These constituents actually block attachment to the thyroid cells by the antibodies that cause Graves disease. The brains signal to the thyroid (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone - TSH) is also blocked from further stimulating the excessively active thyroid gland in this disease (seek professional advice for thyroid problems)
 
Glaucoma - avoid essential oil - may raise pressure in the eye

	Lemon Balm herbal tincture - Melissa 50ml Lemon Balm herbal tincture - Melissa 50ml. Organic, biodynamic, medicinal herb tincture. [More Information...]	£7.99
	Lemon Balm herbal tincture - Melissa 100ml Lemon Balm herbal tincture - Melissa 100ml. Organic, biodynamic, medicinal herb tincture. [More Information...]	£13.99

All material in the Herb Information & purchase section of this site is provided for educational purposes only. Please consult your own medical advisor/herbalist regarding the applicability of any recommendations with respect to your symptoms or medical condition.