Common Melissa

Melissa officinalis

What is lemon balm?

Lemon balm , also known as lemon balm or lemon balm , is a perennial medicinal plant from the mint family ( Lamiaceae ), recognized by its characteristic fresh lemon scent . Its name comes from the Greek word melissa , meaning "bee", as it is extremely popular with bees, who like to visit it during the flowering period.

Lemon balm is native to the Mediterranean, but today it thrives throughout Europe, including in our regions, where it is often grown in gardens and herb gardens. It grows up to 80 cm tall and develops soft, heart-shaped leaves and tiny white to slightly yellowish flowers.

Its leaves are the medicinal part of the plant , rich in essential oils (citral, citronellal, caryophyllene), tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which gives lemon balm a wide range of beneficial effects - for both body and mind.

Use in folk medicine

Lemon balm has been valued in folk medicine for centuries as a natural sedative and remedy for many physical and mental ailments . It was used to relieve anxiety, insomnia, digestive problems and even heart problems. In monastic medicine, it was known as the “herb of life”, because according to St. Hildegard, lemon balm “drives away all dark thoughts”. Women used it to regulate their menstrual cycle and relieve cramps, and it was given to children to soothe irritability and stomach aches.

What studies say about the benefits

  1. A natural sedative for the mind and body
    Lemon balm has a proven anxiolytic and sedative effect. Clinical studies have shown that lemon balm extracts lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), reduce tension , help with insomnia and improve mood. It is especially effective in combination with valerian or passionflower.

  2. Relieving digestive disorders
    Lemon balm relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, reducing flatulence, cramps and bloating. It is used for nervous digestion , irritable bowel syndrome and nausea. In studies, it has also been shown to be effective for functional dyspepsia .

  3. Antiviral activity (herpes, colds)
    Due to its rosmarinic acid and essential oils, lemon balm has proven antiviral activity , especially against the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Creams with lemon balm shorten the duration and intensity of herpes and prevent its recurrence.

  4. Improving cognitive functions
    Research shows that lemon balm improves memory, concentration, and cognitive function . It is also used as a complementary therapy for mild dementia and Alzheimer's disease, as it can improve mood and calmness in patients.

  5. Support for cardiovascular health
    Lemon balm has a lowering effect on heart rate and blood pressure , which is beneficial for people with mild hypertension or palpitations. Its mild action on the parasympathetic nervous system supports balanced cardiac function.

  6. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action
    Due to its essential oils, it has a mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, especially in the gastrointestinal tract and for mild respiratory infections. Lemon balm tea is also used in folk medicine for colds, sore throats, and mild bladder infections.

Want to know more?

Explore over 5,581

studies on lemon balm.

Discover the best studies, selected specifically for your personal research.