Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fragrant herb from the mint family, known for its mild lemon aroma. Its leaves are commonly used to make medicine and to flavor foods. The herb contains compounds believed to have calming effects, and it may also inhibit the growth of certain viruses and bacteria. Lemon balm is used for various purposes, including treating cold sores, anxiety, stress, insomnia, indigestion, and dementia, although there is limited scientific evidence to support many of these uses.
What are Lemon Balm Leafs' Benefits?
What are Lemon Balm Leafs' Benefits?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has a long history of use for enhancing mood and cognitive function. This lemon-scented herb, part of the mint family, is native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia, but is now grown worldwide. Beyond its traditional uses, lemon balm offers a range of potential healing benefits. Read on to discover more about this versatile plant's health-promoting properties.
Stress Relief: Lemon balm is said to soothe symptoms of stress, help you relax, and boost your mood. A 2004 study found that taking lemon balm eased the negative mood effects of laboratory-induced psychological stress.
Anxiety Reduction: Lemon balm may also be used to help reduce symptoms of anxiety, such as nervousness and excitability. A 2014 study showed positive effects on various aspects of mood, including reduced levels of anxiety.
Improved Cognitive Function: Lemon balm can improve cognitive function. The 2014 study indicated that participants who ingested lemon balm performed better on memory, mathematics, and concentration tasks.
Eases Insomnia and Sleep Disorders: Combining lemon balm with valerian may help relieve restlessness and sleep disorders such as insomnia. A 2006 study found significant improvement in children’s sleep symptoms.
Cold Sore Treatment: Lemon balm can be applied topically at the first sign of a cold sore. A 1999 study showed that lemon balm cream helped participants experience fewer symptoms and heal faster.
Digestive Aid: Lemon balm may positively affect digestion. A 2010 study showed that a dessert containing lemon balm reduced the symptoms and intensity of functional dyspepsia.
Nausea Relief: Lemon balm may help relieve feelings of nausea. A 2005 review found lemon balm useful in treating gastrointestinal symptoms.
Menstrual Cramp Reduction: Lemon balm can help relieve menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). A 2015 study showed a significant reduction in symptoms among high school girls who took lemon balm.
Headache Relief: Lemon balm may be useful in treating headaches, especially those caused by stress. Its relaxing properties can help release tension and relax muscles.
Toothache Relief: Lemon balm’s pain-relieving properties may make it ideal for relieving toothache pain. It is thought to target inflammation in the body, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Precautions & Warnings
General Use:
Oral Consumption: Lemon balm is likely safe when consumed in amounts found in foods. Supplements are possibly safe when used at a dose of up to 500 mg daily for up to 6 months. Side effects are generally mild and may include increased appetite, nausea, dizziness, and wheezing. The safety of long-term use beyond 6 months is unknown.
Topical Application: Lemon balm is possibly safe for most adults when applied to the skin but may cause skin irritation.
Special Populations:
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information to determine the safety of lemon balm during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is best to avoid use during these periods.
Children: Lemon balm is possibly safe for children when taken orally for about one month.
Medical Conditions:
Surgery: Lemon balm might cause excessive drowsiness if combined with medications used during and after surgery. It is recommended to stop using lemon balm at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Thyroid Disease: Lemon balm may affect thyroid function, reduce thyroid hormone levels, and interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Avoid using lemon balm if you have thyroid disease.
Side Effects
Lemon balm is generally considered safe when consumed in normal food amounts and when taken as a supplement of up to 500 mg daily for up to 6 months. Mild side effects such as increased appetite, nausea, dizziness, and occasional wheezing may occur. It's important to note that the safety of long-term use beyond 6 months isn't well-established.
When used topically, lemon balm is typically safe for adults, but it might cause skin irritation in some individuals.
It is important to note that individual responses to this ingredient can vary based on age, weight, and specific health conditions. Consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable to determine the appropriate dosage according to individual health needs and considerations. Additionally, healthcare professionals can provide guidance on potential interactions with medications and any underlying health conditions.