Lemon Balm is a medicinal plant native to the East Mediterranean region and West Asia. It’s been used since ancient times for its many therapeutic properties and contains antibacterial, antiviral, antispasmodic and antidepressant compounds. A member of the mint family, it’s considered a calming herb. It was often used for promoting better sleep, relieving pain from indigestion, improving appetite and reducing stress and anxiety.The list of reasons to love lemon balm is practically endless. In fact, it was once even named “Herb of the Year” by the International Herb Association.
Relieving stress and anxiety
To reap the stress and anxiety reducing benefits of this wondrous plant, simply finely chop its leaves and then boil them in water. After several minutes, you can strain the liquid, allow it to cool a bit, and then slowly sip. Another option is to use the leaves. By rubbing them on your skin, the oil will be extracted and seeped into the bloodstream, causing a relaxing effect.
Better sleep
Researchers of University of Maryland Medical Center have determined that the consumption of products with lemon balm can be useful in getting more restful sleep. The experts say that it produces peaceful and deep sleep among those who consume it daily. They’ve also noted that women in menopause who suffer from sleep disruption have reported significantly better sleep after consuming lemon balm. The recommendation is to consume it 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime to reap optimal effects.
Mosquitoes repellent without harmful chemicals
The herb contains high levels of a compound called citronellal, which gives it its lemony aroma and flavor which insects find so unpleasant.Just crush the fresh leaves and rub them directly on your skin, especially around the ankles, arms and other areas most exposed and vulnerable to bug bites. You can also combine it with olive oil to make it easier to spread. It’s safe to use on children too.
Improve alertness
The natural compounds in the leaves are said to boost alertness and energy and can be especially beneficial when one needs to concentrate for a big exam or work project.
Strengthening memory and problem-solving abilities
Lemon balm’s positive effects on memory may be due to its powerful antioxidant known as eugenol, along with the herb’s ability to suppress a brain chemical known as acetylcholinesterase which breaks down the brain-signaling chemical acetylcholine that’s responsible for memory and thought. That action helps stimulate and support memory and mood. Researcher Dr. David Kennedy found that young, healthy adults who took capsules that contained the dried leaves of the lemon balm plant performed significantly better at standardized computer memory tests than those who took a placebo.
The researchers also noted that lemon balm had a positive effect on pieces of brain tissue and chemical receptors in the brain affected by Alzheimer’s.
Treat cold sores
Because lemon balm offers antiviral properties, it can even be used to heal cold sores. It actually contains a host of antiviral constituents, like rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and phenolic acid. This herb can also be used to reduce symptoms of stress related to a herpes outbreak.
Support liver health
A 2014 trial study found that lemon balm was effective as a liver medication when it came to protecting the organ from the damaging effects caused by toxins.
Improve digestion and battle gastrointestinal problems
Drinking lemon balm tea for treating cold sores can also help improve your digestive health.Whether you suffer from indigestion, bloating or gas, lemon balm can help as its essential oils help soothe the gastrointestinal tract. If you have heartburn, add some dried peppermint leaves to the mix for the best results.
Normalize blood sugar levels
Lemon balm is loaded with antioxidants that keep the body’s cells safe from free radical damage, including eugenol and rosmarinic acid, which support a healthy brain, as well as caffeic acids, ferulic, and quercetin.
Relax and relieve sore muscles
Lemon balm is also known to be effective for relieving muscle pain and aches that accompany illness like the flu. Its antispasmodic action that helps decrease muscular spasms, while its eugenol content helps to reduce pain. This same action also helps to relax the body.
Improve skin health
Lemon balm has long been used for treating skin conditions. It's best for battling cold sores. Because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action, it can also help to calm, soothe and heal the skin, and may be particularly effective for a sunburn as well as acne. Two of its compounds, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid penetrate through the top layers into the deeper cutaneous layers of the skin and provide protection against UV radiation-induced skin damage.
