{"id":1922,"date":"2020-07-15T10:52:05","date_gmt":"2020-07-15T09:52:05","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/84.18.216.250\/~herbalreality\/?post_type=herb&p=1922"},"modified":"2026-04-16T14:35:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T13:35:15","slug":"lemon-balm","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/lemon-balm\/","title":{"rendered":"Lemon balm"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":1379,"parent":0,"menu_order":-221,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_integration_method":"rest-api","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"e1a8777f-75df-4e38-9321-25fa9a13d539","beyondwords_preview_token":"f5d61acb-a0a8-4c65-8c9e-7e4ce40f2acb","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[79,42,70,43,124,125,126,49,78],"conditions":[685,694,701,696,698,695,697],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[17,31,786,27],"western_action":[1003,988,989,993,994,1000,1001,1002,1008,1009,1012,1017,1018,1019,1021,1022,1023,1024],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1499,1382,1490,1496,1494],"writer":[2020],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-1922","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-anxiety","tag-digestion","tag-essential-oil","tag-indigestion","tag-lemon-balm","tag-melissa","tag-reflux","tag-stress","tag-tension","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-immune-system","conditions-nervous-system","conditions-reproductive-system","conditions-respiratory-system","conditions-urinary-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-astringent-taste","sense-cooling","sense-sweet","western_action-carminative","western_action-adaptogen","western_action-alterative","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-antioxidant","western_action-astringent","western_action-bitter","western_action-bronchodilator","western_action-diuretic","western_action-emmenagogue","western_action-galactagogue","western_action-nervine","western_action-relaxant","western_action-sedative","western_action-stomachic","western_action-trophorestorative","western_action-uterine-tonic","western_action-vasodilator","energetics_action-astringent","energetics_action-cool","energetics_action-relaxing","energetics_action-sour","energetics_action-sweet","writer-rebecca-collison-walker","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20260302","herb_author":1235,"banner_text":"Lemon balm gently calms the digestive and nervous system","latin_name":"Melissa officinalis<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Lamiaceae","herb_summary":"A deliciously fragrant member of the mint family that provides relief from tension in the nervous and digestive systems. Lemon balm is a wonderful herb for children.","key_benefits":"Central nervous system relaxant\r\nAnxiety symptoms\r\nDigestive complaints\r\nStress-related digestive upsets\r\nLow mood","how_does_it_feel":"Lemon balm can be recognised immediately from rubbing and smelling its characteristic light green leaves, from its aromatic, lemony aroma. On chewing, the bright, citrusy taste comes through straight away, with subtle hints of mint; the slight lemon acidity and tannic astringency combine with a sweetness.<\/span>","hdif_image_1":1379,"hdif_image_2":7570,"hdif_image_3":7572,"hdif_video":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/8UwQtaI4YSY","sense":[17,31,786,27],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_310297\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"511\"]\"Lemon Lemon balm (Melissa officinali<\/em>s)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nLemon balm is of particular use where a digestive upset is exacerbated by stress and anxiety as it is a <\/span>nervine<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>relaxant<\/span><\/a> (1,2) It is a suitable remedy for children, who may prefer the taste to <\/span>chamomile<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Matricaria chamomilla<\/span><\/i>) (1).This relaxant effect may also be useful where stress affects the cardiovascular system, with symptoms including palpitations and hyperventilation as it is a calming and gently <\/span>sedative<\/span><\/a> remedy. <\/span>\r\n\r\nCoupled with its <\/span>antispasmodic<\/span><\/a> effects, it can be applied to support symptoms of stress that are expressed via tightness, cramping or tension within the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems (1,2). It is an effective vasodilator and diaphoretic, which can be used to gently support peripheral circulation. These actions are also well applied in the management of a fever (4).This antispasmodic action also extends to its application to effectively reduce symptoms of indigestion, intestinal cramping and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (2,3).(1,2).<\/span>\r\n\r\nLemon balm is an anxiolytic and helps to support low mood, especially in cases of nervous agitation, irritability or restlessness. As such, it can be applied in cases of insomnia and is also\u00a0 indicated in anxiety, tension and mild-depression. It is also used for conditions characterised by nervous pain, such as fibromyalgia, neuralgia and numbness (1,2,3). Lemon balm supports cognitive function, helping to increase memory retention and provide clarity of thought whilst also offering a calming effect and so is an effective herb to use for exam preparation (1,2,3).<\/span>\r\n\r\nLemon balm exhibits antiviral activity, specifically as a concentrated extract or essential oil against Herpes virus (5). <\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_310296\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"513\"]\"Lemon Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nEnergetically, lemon balm is cooling, a classic action of a herb with sour, sweet and bitter taste qualities. It is a\u00a0 herb that has a dynamic sensory profile with an affinity for nervous irritation with heat and tension (6).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLemon balm works well in tense, \u2018excited\u2019 tissue states, in individuals with a sharp, tense, possibly irregular pulse, palpitations, raised blood pressure and a bright red or pink tongue. This symptom picture often indicates sympathetic nervous system (SNS) excess in a patient, often caused by prolonged exposure to stress (4,6).This presentation is often seen as excess heat rising, and applying a cooling remedy like lemon balm helps to soothe symptoms (6).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLemon balm, according to\u00a0 the Galenic classification, addresses choleric excess or excess heat of the heart, for example in cases where emotional heat causes the spirit to be agitated (7). It was also seen to be useful in treating melancholy as it helps to \u201cmove stagnant vapours of the heart\u201d and lifts heaviness associated with depression (6,7).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe presence of volatile oils in lemon balm promotes positive modulation of GABA-A receptors which contributes to its calming action on excess excitability (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn Ayurveda, lemon balm is understood to be a cooling remedy that alleviates excess <\/span>pitta<\/span><\/i>. As a <\/span>medhya<\/span><\/i> (nootropic) herb, it enhances memory and circulation, excellent for disturbance of <\/span>sadhaka pitta<\/span><\/i>, which can cause anxiety, fear of failure, low self-esteem and insomnia. Lemon balm clears excess <\/span>pitta<\/span><\/i> from <\/span>rasa<\/span><\/i> and <\/span>rakta dhatus<\/span><\/i>, calming the heart and cooling heat in the eyes and <\/span>mutravaha srotas <\/span><\/i>(channels responsible for the formation, transport, and elimination of urine) (8).\u00a0<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"The traditional applications of lemon balm mirror many of its modern uses. It has historically been used as a remedy for the home-management of fever due to its diaphoretic properties (2,7). Lemon balm was described by Culpepper as a herb that \u2018causes the mind and heart to become merry and reviveth the heart\u2019. This can be applied to both the physical and emotional heart. Lemon balm is well-known for its uplifting effect, making it a valuable herb for use in depressive emotional states, to lift states of gloom and despair (2,6).<\/span>\r\n\r\nLemon balm was also traditionally used to support fertility and has long been an ingredient in love potions for fertility and as an aphrodisiac. Lemon balm was seen to support libido in cases where it had been suppressed due to stress, anxiety and especially for women who have experienced sexual trauma, believed to help reconnect with a sense of femininity, rebuilding a sense of integrity and wholeness (3).<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"

\"CardiovascularDigestive system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nOwing to lemon balm\u2019s <\/span>carminative<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>antispasmodic<\/span><\/a> properties, it is indicated in flatulence, dyspepsia, intestinal spasms and generalised indigestion; particularly where this is exacerbated by <\/span>anxiety<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>stress<\/span><\/a>. It can be helpful for heartburn and indigestion, assisting in the absorption of nutrients, particularly fatty foods (as with many herbs from the mint family) (2).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Cardiovascular system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nIt is a gentle circulatory tonic that dilates the peripheral blood vessels, lowers high blood pressure and relieves stress-related symptoms, such as palpitations or <\/span>angina<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt is the effects of lemon balm on the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) that produce its therapeutic effects on the heart, particularly where an increased heart rate and blood pressure are a result of sympathetic overactivity (9).<\/span>\r\n

Nervous system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nLemon balm has an affinity for the nervous system, particularly where there is sympathetic excess. The SNS is a branch of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) that governs stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which, through periods of prolonged exposure to stress, lead to excessive sympathetic function. Lemon balm helps to modulate prolonged sympathetic stimulation (3,4)<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe SNS controls blood pressure, pulse rate, gut motility and any actions related to the fight or flight response (4,9).<\/span>\r\n

Respiratory system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nUsed as a relaxant remedy for asthma and spasmodic coughs. It is a herb that is often used during viral respiratory infections to manage fever symptoms, by increasing sweat production and reducing a viral fever (3).<\/span>\r\n

Immune system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nAs an <\/span>antiviral<\/span><\/a>, lemon balm is an effective treatment for herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) for both oral and genital herpes . The essential oil (diluted) or cream of lemon balm can be applied to the affected area (10,11). When taken orally as a tea or tincture, lemon balm may also help with the virus systemically, but for topical treatment of cold sores, an essential oil-based preparation is effective.<\/span>\r\n

Endocrine system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nLemon balm has been shown to be effective in supporting diabetic patients by improving lipid ratios and helping to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease (12).\u00a0<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_310295\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"516\"]\"Lemon Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Effects of Melissa officinalis<\/i> (lemon balm) consumption on serum lipid profile: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials<\/h3>\r\nThis meta-analysis examined the effects of Melissa officinalis<\/i> (lemon balm) on serum lipid profiles, specifically HDL, LDL, triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC). The analysis included five randomised controlled trials totalling 302 participants with various metabolic conditions and diseases associated with dyslipidemia (exact age ranges and sex distribution varied across studies, generally involving adult men and women with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular risk factors). Interventions involved an oral lemon balm supplement (with varied dosages and durations), compared with placebo.\r\n\r\nThe primary outcome measures were changes in serum TG, TC, LDL, and HDL levels. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in TG (SMD \u22120.396, p=0.001), TC (SMD \u22120.416, p<0.001), and LDL (SMD \u22120.23, p<0.05) compared with placebo, while HDL levels were not significantly affected. This meta analysis suggests that lemon balm may be a safe and beneficial adjunct for improving lipid profiles (13).\r\n

Effects of Melissa officinalis<\/i> phytosome on sleep quality: Results of a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and cross-over study<\/h3>\r\nThis prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trial assessed whether a standardised Melissa officinalis<\/i> Phytosome\u2122 extract (MOP), formulated to enhance polyphenol bioavailability, improved sleep quality in adults with mild insomnia. Adult men and women with sleep disturbances received MOP (dosage not specified) or placebo.\r\n\r\nThe primary outcome measure was the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), with secondary outcomes including sleep architecture (slow-wave sleep [SWS] and REM duration), self-reported sleep quality, anxiety levels, and physical activity.\r\n\r\nTreatment significantly reduced ISI scores (6.8\u2013 4.1 vs 9.7 \u2013 3.7 in placebo; p = 0.003), increased SWS by approximately 15%, decreased REM by 10%, and resulted in 87% of participants reporting improved sleep quality compared to 30% with placebo (p = 0.0003), suggesting that this lemon balm extract (MOP) may be a safe and effective natural option for mild insomnia (14).\r\n

The possible \"calming effect\" of subchronic supplementation of a standardised phospholipid carrier-based Melissa officinalis<\/i> L. extract in healthy adults with emotional distress and poor sleep conditions: Results from a prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial<\/h3>\r\nThis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effects of a standardised Melissa officinalis<\/i> aqueous extract (Relissa\u2122) on emotional distress and poor sleep in adults. The study included 100 healthy men and women experiencing moderate depression, anxiety, or stress (DASS-42 scores \u226514, \u226510, \u226519 respectively) or poor sleep (PSQI >5). Participants received 200 mg of the extract twice daily (400 mg\/day total) or placebo over three weeks.\r\n\r\nThe primary outcomes were changes in depression, anxiety, stress (DASS-42), and sleep quality (PSQI), while secondary outcomes included mental wellbeing (WEMWBS), emotional affect (PANAS), and quality of life (WHO-QoL-BREF).\r\n\r\nSupplementation with the lemon balm extract produced significant improvements across depressive mood, anxiety, stress, emotional affect, overall mental wellbeing, and quality-of-life measures (all p < 0.001), with good tolerability and no serious adverse events reported. The findings suggest that phospholipid-enhanced Melissa officinalis extract may be a safe and effective option for managing moderate emotional distress and sleep disturbances (15).\r\n

Effects of Melissa officinalis<\/i> extract containing rosmarinic acid on cognition in older adults without dementia: A randomised controlled trial<\/h3>\r\nThis randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial examined the effects of a Melissa officinalis<\/i> extract containing 500 mg of rosmarinic acid (RA) per day on cognitive function in older adults without dementia. A total of 323 participants diagnosed with subjective cognitive impairment or mild cognitive impairment were included to receive either the extract or placebo for 96 weeks, followed by a 24-week washout period.\r\n\r\nThe primary outcome measure was the Alzheimer\u2019s Disease Assessment Scale\u2013cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog), with secondary outcomes including other cognitive assessments, Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB), safety, tolerability, vital signs, neurological measures, and hippocampal volume. Overall, no significant differences in cognitive measures were observed between groups over 96 weeks; however, in a subgroup analysis of participants without hypertension, CDR-SB scores showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.036), suggesting a potential protective effect against cognitive decline in this subgroup. This suggests lemon balm can be effective in protecting against cognitive decline (16).\r\n

Effect of Melissa officinalis<\/i> on systolic and diastolic blood pressures in essential hypertension: A double-blind crossover clinical trial<\/h3>\r\nThis double-blind, randomised, clinical trial evaluated the effects of Melissa officinalis<\/i> on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. A total of 49 adults with hypertension participated, with 23 initially receiving M. officinalis<\/i> capsules (400 mg, three times daily) and 26 receiving placebo for four weeks, followed by a 2-week washout and crossover for an additional four weeks. Blood pressure was measured at baseline and every two weeks over a 10-week period. The primary outcome measures were changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.\r\n\r\nResults showed significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic pressures in the M. officinalis<\/i> treatment group compared with placebo (p = 0.005). In group A, systolic\/diastolic pressures decreased from around 152.30 mmHg to 129.88 mmHg; in group B, pressures decreased from around 152.26 \u00b1 mmHg to 131.77 mmHg during active treatment. These results\u00a0 indicate that Melissa officinalis<\/i> supplementation may safely and significantly reduce blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension (17).","did_you_know":"The Latin name <\/span>Melissa <\/span><\/i>derives from the Greek word for bee, indicating how the flower and its nectar were much loved by bees. Historically, beekeepers have been known to rub lemon balm on hives in order to attract bees and calm them down (7). <\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":271671},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Lemon balm is a member of the mint family native to Southern Europe, though now growing around the world. It will grow in natural wasteland at a range of different elevations and environmental conditions. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe leaves produce a characteristically \u2018lemony\u2019 scent when rubbed. The plant can grow to a variety of heights, from just a few inches to a few meters, depending upon the space it has to spread. The leaves are petiolate, decussate, ovate, dentate, and arise from erect square stems, branching little at first, but much more at flowering. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe small white flowers grow in cymes of 3\u20135 in the upper leaf axils \u2014 they are typically labiate i.e., two-lipped, with four curved stamens and a five-toothed calyx. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe roots do not creep in stolons like other mints (17). <\/span>","common_names":"