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Lemon Balm
Description: Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), also known as Heart’s Delight, has been used for several centuries as an herbal treatment. Its leaves are dried and then used as either a tea or ground to produce a powder. Fresh leaves can be added to a salad. An essential oil can be extracted from the plant as well.
Lemon balm, when taken with Valerian, appears to be as effective as some prescription medications for treating insomnia.1
Lemon Balm’s antiviral properties are an effective treatment for the herpes simplex virus. When applied topically, it appears to reduce recurring outbreaks.2
Lemon Balm relaxes the stomach and relieves gas.3

Useful in treatment of: cold sores, indigestion and heartburn, insomnia.

Recommended Dosage: Applied as needed topically. 2 to 3 cups of tea daily.

Contraindications: Should not be taken by patients with glaucoma, as it increases eye pressure.

References:

1Dressing H, Riemann D, et al. Insomnia: Are valerian/balm combination of equal value to benzodiazepine? Therapiewoche 1992; 42:726–36.
2Wobling RH., Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. . Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine 1994;1:24-31.
3Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine. Beaconsfield, UK: Beaconsfield Publishers Ltd, 1985.
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