Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis. It’s a member of the mint family and because all mints have square stems identifying this herb can be as easy as crushing between your fingers to release its aroma!
If sweet like lemony with just enough hinting at freshness or even spice (depending on where it grows) chances are you’re dealing with lemon balm.
Here are 10 great reasons to grow lemon balm!
1. LEMON BALM IS A GREAT PERMACULTURE PLANT
The perfect companion plant, the lemon balm is a welcomed guest to any forest garden.
Lemon balm is a plant that can grow incredibly fast and with rich soil. It needs lots of sun, but doesn’t do well in shade or on salty ground because it likes moist conditions.
If you give it the right conditions it can become massive. Once you discover what this magic herb has done around the house or garden- I’m sure there will no longer be any question why everyone should try growing their own lemons Balms.
2. LEMON BALM IS LOVED BY BEES
Bees are drawn to the irresistible nectar that’s found in lemon balm flowers.
This ancient herb contains some of the same chemicals bees use for communication, so beekeepers crush up leaves and sprinkle it around their newly built hives which will entice workerbees into helping them build new nests out on top!
3. LEMON BALM REPELS ANNOYING BUGS
The use of this herb as an ant repellent is not just for aesthetic purposes. The high amount of compounds that resemble the scent citronella, makes it a powerful insecticide with many uses around your home!
You can make a DIY herbal balm and take it with you wherever you go!
4. LEMON BALM HAS MEDICINAL BENEFITS
There are many ways to use this plant, but it’s most commonly known as an excellent gem in the garden. The ancient Greeks would steep lemon balm leaves and berries with wine for fever relief- how about you make your own cold/flu syrup?
Lemon balm is a medicinal plant that can be taken to reduce menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome. In addition, it’s inhaled as aromatherapy for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease who need to improve their mood, memory, and agitation.
5. LEMON BALM IS A CALMING PLANT
The lemon balm plant is a highly medicinal herb that can help improve mood by relieving stress, anxiety and tension headaches. The rosmarinic acid found in this pleasant tasting fruit has been proven to activate the GABA receptors of our brains which promote relaxation.
Lemon balm is a natural sleep aid , but can also help you stay focused. This herbal powerhouse contains many health benefits, such as reducing restlessness and promoting relaxation to ease the symptoms of insomnia–especially in those who suffer from frequent waking during night-time hours!
6. LEMON BALM IS A DIGESTIVE AID
Lemon balm is a soothing herb that can calm your digestive system. It has been used for centuries to help with stomach issues and even bloating!
Cut up some fresh or dried leaves, pour boiling water over them then let it steep for a few minutes. Then, enjoy this tea after you eat.
7. LEMON BALM IS A CHILDREN’S HERB
Lemon balm is an excellent herb for children, one of the best! It can be used to calm a sleepless or hyperactive child. Parents could all use some calming qualities too-especially when dealing with little ones at their peak energy level.
For teething or colicky babies, small amounts of lemon balm tea can be given to help reduce their discomfort.
8. LEMON BALM IS GOOD IN BATH & BODY PRODUCTS
The leaves of this beneficial herb are loaded with potent antioxidants that you can take advantage of in the form a hair rinse.
Fill a jar ¾ full with lemon balm leaves and cover them with apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for few days before using as desired to keep your hair silky soft!
As you try to unwind, try a lemon balm bath soak. Use lemon balm instead of mint. It will soothe your skin while also relaxing it!
9. LEMON BALM MAKES DELICIOUS FOOD
If you’re not a tea person, don’t worry! You can still reap the benefits of lemon balm by adding chopped leaves to salads and baked goods. Feel free to add it into your favorite smoothie too!
You can use it in place of lemon peel in any dish that needs a touch of acidity, like jams for brightness. You can even try using this zesty herb as an ingredient in compound butters!
10. LEMON BALM TASTES GREAT IN DRINKS
In the 14th century, Carmelite nuns developed a cordial made from infusing lemon balm leaves, alcohol, lemon peel and other ingredients. The popular drink was used to reduce headaches as well as people used it as perfume!
Chartreuse and Benedictine are still around today, and they are still said to have healing ingredients! Why? Because lemon balm is the main ingredient.
Another way to use lemon balm leaves is by infusing them in honey and adding a dollop into your healing teas as you end each day.