Lemon Balm is the common name of Melissa officinalis species, from Labiatae family.
Also known as: balm mint, garden balm.
Lemon balm leaves
Image credit: Forest & Kim Starr
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Features of Lemon Balm
Height to 12-32 inches. Spread to 12-18 inches. Zone 4-9. Perennial.
lemon-scented, ovate, toothed leaf.
clustered, light-yellow, tiny, two-lipped flower in summer.
Growing Lemon Balm
- by cutting during spring and autumn.
- by root division during spring and autumn.
- by seed during spring.
- growth: Suitable as a pot-plant, and smaller plant can be grown indoor.
- protection: Protect from cold winter (below 25F or -4C).
- thinning: 24 inches apart.
- transplant: 24 inches apart.
- trimming: Cut back after flowering to promote new growth of leaves.
Using Lemon Balm
Cosmetic
Steam
Make an infusion as a facial steam. (Use leaf)
Culinary
Dessert
Garnish ice-creams, jellies, and cakes. (Use leaf)
Drink
Float in teas. (Use leaf)
Fish and seafood
Add lemon scent to fish dishes. (Use leaf)
Salad
Add chopped fresh leaves to green and fruit salads. (Use leaf)
Soup
Add chopped leaves to soups upon serving. (Use leaf)
Medicinal
First-aid
Apply externally to sores and insect bites. (Use leaf)
Tea
A tea to ease tension, indigestion, headaches, and cold symptoms. (Use leaf)
Other Use
Other use
Cultivate as a bee plant. (Use leaf)
Traditional Remedies
- Skin » wounds and sores, insect bite, eczema
- Respiratory » cold and flu, catarrh
- Digestive » colic, flatulence, indigestion
- Mood » depression, insomnia, tension
- Disorder » headache
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Please consult with your doctor before using lemon balm for health related purposes.
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