The perennial lemon balm plant is a member of the mint family.Its Known officially as Melissa officinalis, it is sometimes referred to as common balm or balm mint. Its leaves, which have a mild aroma similar to that of lemons, contain compounds that have a soothing effect. Its native home is in the more southern parts of Europe and various parts of the Middle East and Central Asia, but it’s now grown regularly in the Americas and various other locations around the world.
Sleep and relaxation
Lemon balm has been used for centuries to address sleep disturbances, including restlessness and insomnia, to reduce anxiety and to promote a sense of calm. Lemon balm oil extract, especially when combined and taken with valerian root extract, can improve the quality of sleep in adults and children.
Anxiety
One study showed an oral dose taken daily for four months appeared to help reduce agitation and decrease symptoms of agitation in those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
Digestive problems
Lemon balm is useful in the treatment of digestive problems, including upset stomach, bloating, intestinal gas, vomiting and colic.
Cold sores
Extract of lemon balm may help reduce the symptoms of cold sores, shorten their healing time and prevent the spread of the infection.
Pain relief
Lemon balm may help ease the pain of headache, menstrual cramps and toothache.
Powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Lemon balm can help to fight free radical damage in ways that may prove to be remarkable in natural medicine.
Protects against heart and liver problems
Two commonly studied mechanisms of lemon balm are its ability to protect the heart and liver. Lemon balm essential oil slower high triglycerides when used aromatically. It also improves cholestra synthesis in the liverful in relaxation and asleep
