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One of the most prolific herbs that grows in my garden is the humble Lemon Balm. Part of the mint family, Lemon Balm, or Melissa officinalis L., has been used as a very versatile herb for a number of ailments. Lemon Balm's healing properties have been documented over centuries. It was even planted next to beehives to calm the bees.
My Lemon Balm plant loves its spot in my garden, where it thrives in partial shade. It needs no special treatment, and the whole plant can be used. I break off as much as I need and hang it to air dry in my kitchen for approximately a week. I then scrunch up the dried leaves to use as tea. The small stalks can be cut up and used as well as the flowers.
As the name suggests, Lemon Balm has a light lemony flavour. I predominately use it as a tea and add a slice of lemon. It is also great to flavour cold-pressed juices and vinegars, or can be added to flavour chicken or fish dishes or made into a pesto.
In researching Lemon Balm’s healing properties with cancer, the herb was extensively mentioned in many different papers for holistic and naturopathic remedies.
Lemon Balm’s healing properties help with:
Digestive Health
Calmer sleep
Anxiety
Thyroid
Neuroprotective
Depression
As an antioxidant
Precautions:
With all-natural remedies, care should be taken to use them with caution and monitor any side effects.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid using Lemon Balm during pregnancy or lactation.
Thyroid Conditions: Due to its anti-thyroid effects, Lemon Balm should not be taken by people with thyroid conditions without consulting their healthcare professional.
Mental Health Medication: Lemon Balm should not be taken by people on prescription medication for mental health disorders as it can affect the medication. Please consult your healthcare professional.
Drowsiness: Lemon Balm can cause drowsiness; therefore, it should not be consumed before operating machinery or driving.
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