Lemon Balm Uses - What Is Lemon Balm Plant Used For
With its pleasing citrusy aroma, lemon balm hardly needs to have further benefits. And yet the lemon balm plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. What are the benefits of this herb? Read on to learn about lemon balm uses medicinally.
What is Herbal Lemon Balm?
Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family, Lamiaceae. Herbal lemon balm is native through south central Europe, the Mediterranean and into Central Asia. Today it has become naturalized through much of the Americas.
Like its relative mint, lemon balm has a distinct aroma, albeit more citrusy. Cultivated since at least the 16th century, lemon balm leaves have long been used to infuse teas and to flavor foods, as well as in traditional and alternative medicine.
What is Lemon Balm Plant Used For?
As mentioned, lemon balm uses run the gamut from culinary to medicinal. Lemon balm uses in food include as a flavoring in ice cream, fruit dishes, and candies. It is often paired with peppermint as a complimentary flavor in teas. It is also used in fish dishes and surprisingly is one of the ingredients of Spreewald gherkins, said to be the best pickled gherkins in the world.
Lemon Balm Medicinal Use
There are quite a number of medicinal lemon balm uses. Herbal lemon balm is said to aid in digestive ailments such as bloating, colic, indigestions and nausea.
Another lemon balm medicinal use is to relieve stress and anxiety. To this end, the essential oil of lemon balm is often used in aromatherapy. Another benefit aiding in sleep problems and restlessness in children.
Lemon balm is also purported to act as an antioxidant aiding symptoms resulting from such conditions as diabetes, chronic degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s as well as cardiovascular disease.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
The lemon balm plant has also been used for relieving menstrual cramps and symptoms of PMS. It is also said to treat headache and toothache.
There is some evidence to suggest that the use of lemon balm will aid in reducing inflammation.
Lastly, researchers have studied the possibility that using lemon balm at the first sign of a cold sore helps clear the blemish more quickly.
Regarding the Benefits of Lemon Balm
While the jury is out on some of the benefits of lemon balm, for the average healthy adult, using the herb to treat minor discomforts listed above is probably safe. As always, before using this herb or any other it is best to consult with your doctor.
While generally considered safe, using lemon balm medicinally may have side effects such as allergic reactions, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach pain, temperature, and vomiting.
Only use lemon balm for a short time; take a week off for every three weeks of use.
Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.
-
Climate Change And Pests: Do Warmer Winters Mean More Pests?
Warmer climates can result in an increase of some pests and decrease of others, which isn’t always a good thing. Here's how to protect your garden.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
What Is A Water Wick? How To Use One To Keep Houseplants Hydrated While You’re Away
A water wick for plants will give you a worry-free break if you need to leave your plant babies for a while. It’s easy to set up and pretty much runs itself.
By Amy Grant
-
Indoor Lemon Balm Care – Tips For Growing Lemon Balm Indoors
Lemon balm as a houseplant offers a beautiful lemony aroma, a tasty addition to foods and drinks, and a pretty potted plant for a sunny window ledge. Knowing what this herb needs will allow you to grow it indoors, year-round. Learn more in this article.
By Mary Ellen Ellis
-
Companions For Lemon Balm – Learn About Lemon Balm Companion Planting
A member of the mint family, lemon balm is easy to grow, even for newbie gardeners. If you're wondering what to plant with lemon balm, then look to this article for a few suggestions to get you started. Click here for more info.
By Mary H. Dyer
-
Lemon Balm Control: Tips For Getting Rid Of Lemon Balm Weeds
It's hard to imagine that such a lovely plant could cause so many problems, but this member of the mint family is super-prolific and can wear out its welcome in a hurry. Read this article for tips on controlling lemon balm.
By Mary H. Dyer
-
Tips For Growing Lemon Balm
While not as popular as other herbs, lemon balm is a wonderful herb to have in your garden. Wondering what to do with lemon balm and what is lemon balm used for exactly? Read this article to learn more.
By Heather Rhoades