Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

Taste: Sour, sweet, strong lemon flavour.

Origin: Europe

Energetics: Cooling, drying

Actions and properties: Relaxing diaphoretic, sedative, antiviral, antispasmodic, anti-oxidant, aromatic digestant.

Systems: Digestive system, circulatory system, respiratory system, reproductive system.

Traditionally used for:

• Nervousness, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia
• Spasms in the upper respiratory centres, convulsive coughing, asthma
• Anxiety and heart palpitations; hyperthyroidism
• Rapid Pulse
• Upset stomach, flatulence, nervous indigestion
• Colds, fevers
• deficient and painful menstruation, leucorrhea, menopause hot flashes
• Male impotence

Brewing instructions:

• 1-2 tsp of herb per cup of water
• Boiling water (200-212f/93-100C)
• Steep for 5-15 minutes

Contraindications/cautions: Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid if you have an under active thyroid, unless first speaking to a healthcare practitioner. Stop using 2 weeks before scheduled surgery. Not recommended for long tern use (4-6 weeks max). May cause drowsiness.

Always consult a healthcare practitioner when consuming any new herb. Like all herb it is best to start with a little to make sure you are not intolerant.

Warning: This information has not been verified by Health Canada and should be considered for historical and educational purposes only.

Other uses: Mosquito repellent.