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.

 

Part Used

Berries

Systems

Musculo-skeletal; digestive; urinary

Actions

Anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial; anti-rheumatic; bitter; carminative; diuretic; emmenagogue; rubefacient; urinary antiseptic

Traditional Uses

Used in arthritis and rheumatism for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties; will relieve muscle aches due to excess lactic acid. Applied topically (essential oil) for arthritis, muscle/joint pains, gout and neuralgia. Specific use in the treatment of cystitis. Traditionally used as a bitter digestive stimulant. ^1. 2.

Part Used

Strobile

Systems

Nervous

Actions

Analgesic; anaphrodisiac; antispasmodic; astringent; bitter; diuretic; hypnotic; sedative nervine

Traditional Uses

Main internal indications are sleeplessness from worry and anxiety with nervous gastropathies. Used for restlessness associated with nervous tension and headache and/or indigestion. Great for restful sleep and restless leg syndrome. ^1. 2.

Crataegus oxycantha

System

Cardiovascular

Properties

Cardiotonic.  Antioxidant  Hypotensive (regulates BP).  Coronary vasoldilator.  Peripheral vasodilator.  Diuretic.  Anti-arrhythmic.

Traditional Uses

For angina pectoris, insomnia, poor memory, bloodshot eyes, glaucoma, to increase circulation, regulate blood pressure, heart compaints, improves exercise endurance.

 

Part Used

Rhizome

Systems

Cardiovascular; digestive

Actions

Anti-emetic; anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; antimicrobial; antispasmodic; anti-thrombotic; cardiotonic; carminative; diaphoretic; hepatic; hepatoprotective; hypolipidemic; peripheral circulatory stimulant (warming); rubefacient

Traditional Uses

Increases the flow of saliva; a stimulating tonic for the digestive system. Reduces cramping, nausea, and gas; and is indicated for motion sickness and to reduce nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and chemotherapy. Increases peripheral circulation and detoxifies (especially in cases of rheumatism). Used topically for inflammatory conditions. ^1. 2.