Benefits Of "Lemon Balm" Supplements
Melissa officinalis
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Genus: Melissa
Species: M officinalis
Also known as: Bee balm,
melissa, sweet balm, cure-all
Parts used: Leaves, tops
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Lemon balm; known as an all purpose soother, has the potential to heal wounds, ease indigestion, relieve menstrual cramps, treat cold sores, relax nerves and aid sleep. It is also known as an insect repellent. Mosquitoes hate it.
Modern herbalist recommend a lemon balm tea made from fresh or dried leaves to calm the nerves, aid sleep, ease menstrual cramps and reduce fever.
Used externally, it may help Herpes Simplex virus (cold sores). A poultice of the crushed leaves can be used to sooth insect bites, stings and to heal wounds.
German researchers have discovered that it relaxes the digestive tract, supporting its age-old use as a digestive aid. Researchers have also discovered that lemon balm oil may have tranquilizing properties - supporting the herbs traditional use as a relaxant. It is used widely as a tranquilizer and sedative in Germany.
STUDIES:
Two studies have shown that it interferes with the thyroid stimulating hormone, thyrotropin. However, there are no reports of this herb causing thyroid problems.
It is listed on the Federal Drug Administration's list of herbs generally regarded as safe. As with all herbal nutrition supplements, lemon balm supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENT:
Eugenol, flavonoids, polyphenols, rosmarinic acid, tannin, terpenes, triterpenoids and volatile oils.
GROWING:
Lemon balm is a perennial that grows to the height of 2 feet. It has double lipped, white or yellow flowers which bloom in bunches through the summer. It grows easily from seeds, cuttings or root division. Sow in spring.
Germination takes 3 to 4 weeks, keep them moist. It likes well drained soil with the PH near neutral and prefers partial shade. It wilts in full sun and will lose some of its lemon scented aroma.
For lemon balm uses, the leaves should be harvested before the plant flowers. Cut the entire plant a few inches above the ground and dry quickly or the leaves may turn black. It will lose most of aroma when dried. Powder the leaves and store in a tightly sealed container to preserve the volatile oil. Use to flavor some of your favorite recipes.
Lemon balm is a favorite plant to bees and should be grown in home gardens to attract bees for healthy fertilization of your plants. Keep this in mind when designing your herbal garden.
SUGGESTIONS:
Other herbs that contain carminative actions include alfalfa, angelica, basil, chamomile, cinnamon, comfrey, dandelion, fennel, garlic, meadowsweet, passion flower, peppermint, rosemary and thyme.
LEMON BALM - TOP

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