Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

A fragrant member of the mint family, lemon balm is traditionally used for its gentle calming qualities and support of digestive comfort.

PLANT FAMILY

Lamiaceae (Mint family)

PARTS USED

Leaves + aerial parts

TASTE + AROMA

Lemony | Herbaceous | Lightly sweet | Aromatic

ENERGETICS

Cooling | Drying

traditional uses

Lemon balm has a long history of use in Western herbalism as a gentle calming herb. It has traditionally been used during periods of occasional nervousness, restlessness and tension and is often incorporated into evening or relaxation-focused preparations.

Lemon balm also has a traditional relationship with digestion, particularly when digestive discomfort appears alongside stress or nervous tension.

in the cup

Lemon balm brings a light, fresh lemon character to herbal tea without the sharp acidity of citrus fruit.

It can work beautifully as a foundation herb in softer blends or as a supportive herb when you want to add a bright, aromatic quality.

how to prepare

Hot infusion: Add approximately 1–2 teaspoons of dried lemon balm per 8 ounces of hot water. Cover and steep for approximately 5–10 minutes, then strain.

Covering the tea while it steeps helps retain the plant's aromatic volatile compounds.

things to know

Lemon balm is generally well tolerated when consumed in typical food and tea amounts. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications or managing a health condition should consult an appropriate healthcare professional before using herbs therapeutically.

Some references recommend additional caution for people taking thyroid medications or managing thyroid conditions.