Description

Lemon balm(Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family.
This plant is highly valued for its pleasant citrus aroma and versatile health-supporting properties. Originating from the Mediterranean region and the Middle East, lemon balm is now widely cultivated worldwide, both in gardens and indoors. Lemon balm is a herbaceous plant with oval leaves covered in soft hairs and small white or pale yellow flowers. It typically grows 30–80 cm tall. The plant prefers sunny or partially shaded locations and well-drained, fertile soil. It is a hardy plant, capable of withstanding moderate drought.
Interesting fact: Lemon balm made its way from the East to the Mediterranean region centuries ago. It has been known as a medicinal plant in Ancient Greece for over 2,000 years. In antiquity, the plant was associated with bees, which is reflected in its Latin name Melissa. It was believed that placing a sprig of lemon balm in an empty beehive would attract a swarm of bees. Another belief was that bees would never abandon a hive near which lemon balm grows. These bee-related beliefs persisted into the Middle Ages when sugar was expensive and honey was a luxury. Through German monasteries, lemon balm cultivation spread to the Nordic countries. Monks used lemon balm to produce alcohol and medicines. Initially, lemon balm tea was consumed in monasteries, but later it became a drink of royalty. In the Middle Ages, lemon balm was widely used as a medicinal herb. It was employed to treat wounds, toothaches, bites from rabid animals, and pregnancy-related nausea. It was also believed to prevent hair loss, and amulets filled with lemon balm leaves were thought to bring luck and love.

The health-promoting properties of lemon balm:

Lemon balm is popular in folk medicine as well as in modern herbal medicine. Its main benefits are:

1. Calming effects on the nervous system. Helps relieve anxiety, stress and tension. Promotes better sleep quality, helping in cases of insomnia. Lemon balm can improve concentration and support brain health.

2. Supporting digestion. Relieves digestive problems such as gas, bloating and mild stomach pain. Helps balance intestinal function and soothes an irritated digestive system.

3. A mood enhancer. Supports mental balance and may help relieve mild symptoms of depression.

4. Antiviral and immune system booster. Helps combat viruses, such as herpes simplex (cold sore virus). Contains antioxidants that strengthen the body’s defenses.

5. Pain reliever. It helps relieve mild headaches, migraines and menstrual pain.

6. Cardiovascular support. Promotes cardiovascular health by lowering stress levels and blood pressure.

7. Supporting hormonal balance. Helps reduce menstrual and menopausal symptoms by supporting hormonal balance.

Medical Medium Anthony William describes lemon balm as a life-changing medicinal herb, stating on his website that it helps address countless health issues and positively impacts nearly every part of the body. This abundant herb is rich in trace minerals such as boron, manganese, copper, chromium, molybdenum, selenium, and iron, along with significant amounts of the macromineral silicon. Lemon balm is a B12-preserving plant—it safeguards your vitamin stores and prevents your body from depleting them entirely.In addition, it may have antiparasitic, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. According to Medical Medium, lemon balm helps fight Epstein-Barr virus, shingles, and other herpes viruses, such as HHV-6, which he believes are at the root of many chronic illnesses, symptoms, and conditions. He also claims that lemon balm detoxifies the liver, spleen, and kidneys, and reduces bladder inflammation, making it an essential aid for relieving interstitial cystitis and urinary tract infections. Read more about lemon balm on the Medical Medium’s blog.

Possible uses:

The leaves emit an intense lemon scent, especially when rubbed. Lemon balm is widely used both fresh and dried:

• Tea: Lemon balm makes an excellent tea. Lemon balm tea is enjoyed for relaxation and supporting digestion. It’s a delicious drink that calms the mind and enhances overall well-being. Preparing it is simple and works well with both fresh and dried leaves.
• Tincture: in a concentrated form to provide a stronger effect.
• Essential oil: The oil from the plant is used in aromatherapy for its calming effect.
• Cooking: Lemon balm is good in salads, desserts, and smoothies, as well as to flavour fish dishes.
• Cosmetics: lemon balm is added to skin care products for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

How to make lemon balm tea?

• Preparation: put dried (1-2 teaspoons) or fresh lemon balm leaves in a cup or teapot.
• Add hot water: Pour 250 ml of boiling water over the leaves.
• Steep: Cover a cup or jug and steep for 5-10 minutes. A longer infusion time gives a more intense flavour.
• Strain: Strain the tea and add honey or lemon to taste.
• Enjoy: Serve warm as a soothing drink or chilled as a refreshing beverage.

When to consume lemon balm tea?

• In the evening: to relax and promote better sleep.
• After meals: to support digestion and relieve bloating.
• On a stressful day: to calm the mind and find balance.

Lemon balm tea is gentle and suitable for daily consumption. Eeriksaare Tea Farm – the closeness to nature and wisdom passed down from generation to generation. Eeriksaare Tea Farm is a place where the land, the soil and the traditions are respected. Their roots run deep in the soil of their homeland and they feel a strong connection to the special character of this place. The farming wisdom of their grandparents and the old meadows are the foundation of their teahouse – where they draw strength and inspiration to create tasty teas. Tea plants grow in lovingly tended soil, unencumbered by artificial fertilisers and pesticides. The plants are grown and harvested by hand, ensuring the highest quality and natural purity in every leaf. The tea plants, which they do not grow themselves, are harvested from Viljandi’s pristine forests and bogs. This ensures that each tea blend carries the power and unique taste of the local nature. Eeriksaare Tea Farm honours its homeland and its heritage. They care for nature and work sustainably to ensure that their fields and forests remain the same for future generations.

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