Lemon balm (sweet balm) is an herbal supplement made from the plant extract of Melissa officinalis . Moist, well-drained soil creates the perfect environment for growing healthy lemon balm. doi:10.1136/jnnp.74.7.863. 2017;25(2):105–111. Rosmarinic acid potentiates pentobarbital-Induced sleep behaviors and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep through the activation of GABAA-ergic systems. High doses can potentially affect thyroid function by slowing the production of thyroid hormones. Lemon balm is said to soothe symptoms of stress, help you to relax, and … It is commonly grown in all parts of the world, Americas, Asia, Europe, New Zealand and other continents. ), Are Oats Gluten-Free? Lemon Balm Benefits As a gentle nervine, lemon balm helps to calm and rejuvenate the nervous system. In both animal and human studies, lemon balm taken by mouth has had calming effects. That’s certainly the case with lemon balm, a fast-growing plant that’s been studied for its effects on everything from insomnia to cancer. Lemon Balm is an herb that has been used to treat anxiety and insomnia for a very long time. These results were confirmed by repeating the test with yogurt instead of water. It’s also not uncommon to find it used in fruit-based drinks and even cocktails. If you have a toothache, apply a small amount of lemon balm oil to the painful area. It is one of those herbs that function to regulate irregular sugar levels … This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. However, a 2014 study found that lemon balm essential oil caused apoptosis (spontaneous cell death) in these cancer cells and stopped the expression of a protein known as multidrug resistance associated protein 1 (MRP1). Often said to ease stress and anxiety, lemon balm contains a compound known as rosmarinic acidthat appears to have potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In a 2014 study published in Phytotherapy Research, lemon balm extract was able to prevent 80 to 96 percent of drug-resistant HSV-1 strains from infecting host cells. Does Melissa officinalis cause withdrawal or dependence?. What do you do with lemon balm? Does lemon balm work for weight loss? In both animal and human studies, lemon balm taken by mouth has had calming effects. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Since both passionflower and lemon balm are also anxiolytic herbs, they serve a double benefit for those with insomnia – a direct sedative effect on sleep and an additional benefit of reducing anxiety. Lemon balm is generally safe for most people, but because it affects thyroid activity, people taking thyroid medication or who have severely underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) should not take it. The participants were each given 60 drops of lemon balm extract containing 500 micrograms of citral per milliliter (μg/ml) for a period of 16 weeks. Nutrients. Rinse the leaves thoroughly, and pat dry with paper towels. Brain & Cognitive Support, Digestive Support, Immune Support, Stress Support, Sleep Support. According to various sources, it seems lemon balm’s effects on the herpes simplex virus are related to its antioxidant compounds. What are the side effects of lemon balm? While promising, the findings have yet to be replicated in other studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) If you don’t want to grow it yourself, you can find lemon balm tea and supplements online. Cut or tear the leaves into smaller pieces and place them into a tea infuser. While it’s difficult to make your own oil, you can make tea, cold infusions, salves and more at home. Avoid those that are yellowing, discolored, or have evidence of mold. In larger doses, it may promote sleep. Because of its antioxidant activity, this extract has a potentially protective effect on the gastrointestinal system. Primary interest in lemon balm surrounds its effects on the central nervous system. Its mild sedative effect is a well-known feature. 2014;28(10):1547-52. doi:10.1002/ptr.5166, Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M et al. Updated April 14, 2015. Lemon balm is also believed to treat a range of medical disorders affecting the digestive tract, nervous system, and liver. Its use dates back to the 14th century when Carmelite nuns used it to make an alcoholic tonic popularly known as Carmelite water. It helps to calm nervous fits and relax people who are distressed or upset. Traditionally, lemon balm herbal preparations have been used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Lemon balm essential oil is intended for external use only. While there is no permanent cure for herpes, treatment methods generally involve finding ways to decrease the frequency and duration of outbreaks. Lemon Balm is a herb that is often confused as a weed by most conventional gardeners. There is also some evidence that lemon balm products, as well as peppermint and angelica root, may be useful in creating herbal remedies for constipation. It is a common addition to peppermint tea, mostly because of its complementing flavor. Ⓒ 2020 About, Inc. (Dotdash) — All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Here are just some of the findings from current research: Lemon balm may be used to help reduce anxiety, according to a small study published in the journal Nutrients.. & detox juicing guide. Other lemon balm benefits include having antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Can the Poria Mushroom Strengthen Your Immune System? Researchers have tested both lemon balm essential oil and extract for their effect on high blood sugar. Lemon balm interactions. Advertisement. Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Shakeri A, Sahebkar A, Javadi B. Melissa officinalis L. - A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology. Lemon balm supplements are available in capsule, tablet, powder, and tincture forms. Used in teas, cooking and to make Melissa essential oil, it’s been prescribed by doctors since the Middle Ages as a natural remedy to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, heal wounds and promote longevity. One small study demonstrated decreased stress and agitation in patients with dementia and Alzheimer disease. Alternative practitioners believe that lemon balm can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including insomnia, cold sores, high cholesterol, genital herpes, heartburn, and indigestion. Other studies have found lemon balm products to have apoptotic effects on other cancer cell lines, including a type of cancer affecting the organ lining separating the organ from the rest of the body, MCF-7 (a breast cancer cell line), a colorectal cancer cell line, the most common liver cancer cell and two different types of leukemia cells. in addition to rosmarinic acid, lemon balm contains citral, citronellal, linalool, geraniol, and beta-caryophyllene, each of which has spasmolytic (anti-spasm) and carminative (anti-gas) properties. Alternative practitioners believe that lemon balm can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including insomnia, cold sores, high cholesterol, genital herpes, heartburn, and indigestion. Here’s a simple herbal lemon balm tea recipe to try: Steep the fresh leaves for 15 minutes or so in very hot water, then remove leaves and (optional) add raw honey as a natural sweetener. To date, most researchers have studied the efficacy of lemon balm on herpes labialis, or cold sores. Dosage recommendations vary depending on what you’re using it for. Drink this decoction daily. It has a characteristic oily texture that forms a thin, protective layer over the skin. It is known by various other universal names also common balm, balm mint, lemon balm, Melissa essential oil.For the reason that, in food industries, lemon balm extract and essence of this herbal plant leaf largely used for flavoring purposes in food, beverages and making … Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health. It contains certain chemicals that have the ability to sedate the user and produce profound feelings of relaxation, making it one of the best natural anxiety/insomnia remedies out there. The same results seem to exist when using lemon balm essential oil, too. Read our, Medically reviewed by Arno Kroner, DAOM, LAc, Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD, Medically reviewed by Lana Butner, ND, LAc, 14 Natural Ways to Get a Better Night's Sleep. It’s a not a magic bullet, but help with weight loss might be a potential secondary effect. Taken internally in food products, it also seemed to enhance mood and/or cognitive performance, as demonstrated in a study involving young adults. Start by snipping a few fresh lemon balm leaves. Once you realize how many ways you can benefit from the many lemon balm uses described below, I’m sure you’ll be itching to grow some in your own garden. Scientific research has shown it can be effective in protecting the heart and liver from common diseases. There is growing evidence that lemon balm can help treat symptoms of dyspepsia (upset stomach), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and acid reflux. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. Also discuss using this product with your health care provider if you take medications for thyroid disease, anxiety, insomnia or depression. They are said to work most effectively when applied at the first signs of a sore. Even food-grade essential oils used for flavoring candies and other foods should not be taken by mouth. Lemon balm is used to reduce stress, anxiety, to promote sleep, improve the appetite, ease the pain, discomfort from indigestion including gas, bloating and colic and many more conditions. Known officially as Melissa officinalis, it is sometimes referred to as common balm or balm mint. Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. The most important benefits of lemon balm include its ability to help fight cancer, treat sexually transmitted diseases, boost heart health, protect the immune system, promote healthy sleep and regulate diabetes, among others. Serious allergy reactions are rare. It can be consumed as a tea, taken as a supplement or extract, or applied to the skin in balms and lotion. The dose of a tincture can vary by the concentration (strength) of the formulation. doi:10.5455/medarh.2015.69.60-61, Taavoni S, Nazem Ekbatani N, Haghani H. Valerian/lemon balm use for sleep disorders during menopause. Lemon balm is used for the treatment of flatulence, genital herpes, anxiety, and insomnia. Rosmarinic acid had potent antiviral properties that may aid in the treatment of certain viral infections. People have used this plant for centuries as an herbal treatment and natural medicine to treat various ailments. If you often feel like you could use a quick boost in ... Detox Your Liver: Try My 6-Step Liver Cleanse, Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits and Uses (30! Despite its long-standing use in traditional medicine, the evidence supporting many of these health claims is lacking. According to a 2015 study, lemon balm (taken in capsule form) effectively reduced PMS symptoms in high school-aged women. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Some of the most popular lemon balm uses include using the leaves in the kitchen to make tea and flavor dishes, as well as to create perfume oils and insect repellents. You can even muddle them with the back of a spoon or chopstick to extract more of the herb's oils. (Plus How to Eat for a Healthy Heart), Dangers of Energy Drinks + Healthy Alternatives to Boost Alertness. Thyroid conditions affect more than 12 percent of the population of the United States, and one of the two common thyroid conditions, hyperthyroidism, can benefit from lemon balm. Lemon balm is considered a nervine, which is an herb that relaxes, soothes and supports the nervous system. (2) It supports the retention of GABA in the brain, which is thought to contribute to its calming … Because there are so many different formulations, there are no set doses or standard courses of treatments. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased. Valerian/lemon balm use for sleep disorders during menopause, Rosmarinic acid potentiates pentobarbital-Induced sleep behaviors and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep through the activation of GABAA-ergic systems, Attachment and penetration of acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus are inhibited by Melissa officinalis extract, Xiang Feng Cao (in traditional Chinese medicine). Dr. Josh Axe is on a mission to provide you and your family with the highest quality nutrition tips and healthy recipes in the world...Sign up to get VIP access to his eBooks and valuable weekly health tips for FREE! are clickable links to these studies. Lemon balm (scientific name: Melissa officinalis) is a herb that belongs to the peppermint family.The crunchy, lemony flavored leaves have wider health benefits than you imagined. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an herb in the mint family. Because it has anti-inflammatory effects, can help you cope with stress, improves digestion and supports metabolic health, it may be useful for maintaining a healthy weight. Further research is needed to see if the same results can be achieved in humans. In others, a dose reduction or change of medication may be needed. Note that ‘bee balm’ is sometimes used, incorrectly, as a synonym for lemon balm; bee balm is, in fact, another group of plants in the mint family. Lemon balm uses also extend into topical application, due in part to their antiviral qualities. Lemon balm essential oil is also popular in aromatherapy, where it is believed to promote calmness and ease stress. If you live in a somewhat warm climate, you may want to try your hand at growing lemon balm. The long-term use or overuse of lemon balm is not recommended. This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. Lemon balm is used as a flavouring in ice cream and herbal teas, both hot and iced, often in combination with other herbs such as spearmint. Other Common Names: Common balm, melissa, sweet balm, citronmeliss (Swedish), Melisse (German), meliza (Spanish). Doing so many reduce the formation of plaques in the brain associated with the progression of the disease.. Given the addictive nature of most pharmaceutical sleeping pills, along with many side effects, botanicals are a great, safe alternative. Today, lemon balm is used in traditional medicine as both a sleep aid and digestive tonic. Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis. Lemon balm is used alone or as part of various multi-herb combination products. Phytother Res. Lemon balm is also known as bee balm and honey balm. In fact, researchers at the Free University of Berlin stated, “ethanolic lemon balm extract can potentially be used to prevent or concomitantly treat type 2 diabetes,” because they were so impressed by the convincing data. The Truth About Oats & Gluten, Sucralose: 5 Reasons to Avoid This Artificial Sweetener, Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, 9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health, Top 15 Potassium-Rich Foods to Start Eating Today, 3-Day Cardiac Diet: Is It Safe? What is the herb lemon balm good for? As a general rule of thumb, never take more than the recommended dosage on the product label. Lemon balm essential oil is sometimes also known as Melissa oil. This herb may also help regulate an overactive thyroid, fight PMS symptoms and improve digestion. To get the most benefits it’s best to purchase a high-quality oil that contains pure extract. Perhaps most notably in this particular benefit of lemon balm is its potential impact against a specific kind of cancer known as glioblastoma multiforme. If you are suffering from premature aging, or are seeing wrinkles appearing on your face, using this herb can help reverse or slow down those effects. When using lemon balm extract in cream form, research shows that the intervals between herpes breakouts become longer, the healing period shortens and the symptoms, such as itching and burning, seem to decrease. In fact, esteemed herbalist Rosemary Gladstar tells us that lemon balm is “one of nature’s best nervine herbs” (Gladstar 2001). Lemon balm can be applied topically to help treat herpes outbreaks and extend time between outbreaks. Do this last minute; the leaves blacken and dry out if you cut them too far in advance. Using lemon balm oil, extract, tea and other products can improve mood, concentration and sleep quality while reducing anxiety. With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. Lemon balm tea is a natural herbal tranquilizer to soothe troubling nevous system. For example, lemon balm tea benefits seem to include fighting abdominal pain and discomfort after eating, constipation and bloating. Does Melissa officinalis cause withdrawal or dependence? What is Lemon Balm Used for? Lemon balm may also protect against neurodegenerative disorders caused by overexposure to manganese, according to some research. There are some who even contend that it can improve cogni… En un estudio, investigadores encontraron que el uso del bálsamo de limón también mejoró la memoria y la capacidad de atención se alargó en los individuos que sufren de la enfermedad de Alzheimer. The Benefits of Lemon Balm for Sleep and Wellness: Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a cultivated perennial lemon-scented herb. 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