Part Used

Aerial

Systems

Gastrointestinal; musculo-skeletal

Actions

Analgesic; anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial; anti-rheumatic; astringent; carminative; diaphoretic; liver tonic

Traditional Uses

Used specifically for peptic ulcers. Will regulate gastric acid levels, protect and soothe GIT mucous membranes in conditions like dyspepsia, hyperacidity, heartburn and gastritis. Of great use in inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, gout, and all kinds of muscle and joint pains. Has antibacterial and immuno-modulating effects; its astringency makes it a useful remedy in the treatment of diarrhea. ^1. 2.

Part Used

Root, leaf

Systems

Gastrointestinal; respiratory; urinary

Actions

Alterative; anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial; anti-tussive; demuclent; diuretic; emollient; expectorant; hypoglycemic; laxative; nutritive; vulnerary

Traditional Uses

Highly mucilaginous – healing to the gastrointestinal system, respiratory system, and urinary system. Indicated for dry cough, congestion, and bronchial asthma. Applied topically for boils, abscesses, bruises, skin ulcers, swelling, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. ^1. 2.

Part Used

Flowering tips

Systems

Cardiovascular; nervous

Actions

Astringent; anti-inflammatory; antispasmodic; carminative; diaphoretic; diuretic; expectorant; hypotensive; immuno-modulator; nervine tonic and sedative

Traditional Uses

Indicated in nervous tension and dyspepsia, anxiety, headaches, and heart palpitations. Is hypotensive and will reduce hypertension associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension. A notable diaphoretic (often used in colds and flu). ^1. 2.

Part Used

Rhizome

Systems

Endocrine; gastrointestinal

Actions

Adaptogen & adrenal restorative; anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial; anti-spasmodic; anti-tumor; demulcent; expectorant; hepatoprotective; laxative (mild); phytoestrogenic; vulnerary;

Traditional Uses

Specific for the treatment of peptic ulcers. Soothes gastrointestinal inflammation and irritations. Used for adrenal insufficiency. Benefits inflammatory conditions, such as allergies and autoimmune disease, lyme disease. A respiratory action for dry and spasmodic coughs. For rheumatism, muscle spasm and cramps, and joint inflammation – can be used both internally and externally. Used topically for eczema, herpes, shingles, diaper rash, and psoriasis. ^1. 2.

Lemon Balm: Melissa officinalis

Part Used

Leaves, aerial parts

Systems

Nervous, Digestive, Endocrine

Key Actions

Anti-fungal; anti-histaminic; anti-microbial; antispasmodic; anti-thyroid; anti-viral; cardiotonic; carminative; diaphoretic; nervine sedative & nervous system tonic

Traditional Uses

Lemon balm has specific use for dyspepsia (indigestion) associated with anxiety and/or a depressive mood and is in a class of plants that herbalists refer to as ‘carminatives’, which aid in the digestion and assimilation of food. It has a pleasant and calming effect on the heart and is said to lift the spirits, while at the same time relaxing nervous tension and anxiety. It is indicated for symptoms typical of hyperthyroidism: anxiety, restlessness, heart palpitations, headache and nervous excitability.

I use this plant in the Winter as a mild anti-depressant, as it has the ability to combat the dark moods that are sometimes referred to as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Lemon balm, when used regularly, strengthens the brain and its resistance to stress as a tonic to the heart, circulatory system and nervous system. It has traditionally been used topically for gout, and internally for rheumatism, herpes, and viral infections of all varieties, including shingles.

Contraindications

Lemon balm with it’s relaxing effects on the metabolism should be avoided in cases of Hypothyroidism, but is generally a very safe plant which is fine for use by all ages.

Preparations

The best way to consume lemon balm is as tea, which an be made easily by pouring hot water over a few teaspoons of the leaves. If you have the dried leaves in your cupboard these can be stored for a year and still make a potent tea with 2-4g per cup. I combine lemon balm in the Winter with my seasonal favourites like warming ginger and bitter lemon peel to make a delicious Lemon Ginger tea.

Lemon balm makes a great 1:5 tincture at 45% alcohol. When applied topically, it helps to resolve cold sore outbreaks, and internally is a great way to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and upset stomach. Try it combined with damiana, licorice root or rosemary for added effects.