What You Need To Know About The Benefits of Lemon Balm
- Summary: Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant that is in the mint family. Its scent reminds one of lemon but it bear no such fruit. For centuries its leaves have been used in teas and oils to aid health.
- Origin: Lemon balm has been used since ancient Greek times and has had a role in ancient medical systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- Potential Health Benefits and Uses
- Relaxation
- Cognitive Health
- Diabetes
- Skin Care
- Side Effects & Interactions: Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.
- Additional Information:
What Are The Benefits Of Lemon Balm?
What Benefits Might I Get From Lemon Balm?
Lemon balm just smells a bit like lemons… it is not a lemon or even a citrus. Lemon balm is a perennial plant in the mint family. It has been used for centuries for both human and animal health.
Relaxation
Perhaps one of the most widely known benefits for lemon balm is its ability to help people relax. Whether a cup of lemon balm tea or aromatherapy or other manner, it can be a welcome relief to the stress of our modern lifestyles.
Cognitive Health
Lemon balm has also been used over the centuries to help with memory. Modern science continues to investigate the connection between lemon balm and memory.
One study found that there was a significant improvement in memory testing with lemon balm. The results were promising enough to lead researchers to speculate on the value of lemon balm as an adjunct treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.
Type 2 Diabetes
The essential oil of lemon balm leaves have notable antioxidant activity. Researchers have investigated the ability for these antioxidants to reduce blood sugar. Used correctly, this can be beneficial for glucose tolerance for those living with Type 2 Diabetes.
Skin Care
Lemon balm salves and ointments have been popular for skin care for centuries for blister and other blemishes. More recently, one study found topical application of lemon balm as an effective treatment for herpes labialis.
Additional Information & References On The Benefit Of Lemon Balm
You are in charge of your health. Doing a little extra research will not only let you make better decisions but also empower YOU with knowledge of the benefit of lemon balm. To help you learn more let HealthCare Too start you with some links:
- Google Scholar
- Modulation of Mood and Cognitive Performance Following Acute Administration of Single Doses of Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) with Human CNS Nicotinic and Muscarinic Receptor-Binding Properties
- Balm mint extract (Lo-701) for topical treatment of recurring herpes labialis.
- Anti-Stress Effects of Lemon Balm-Containing Foods
- Anti-diabetic effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) essential oil on glucose- and lipid regulating enzymes in type 2 diabetic mice
Lemon Balm Products
When you are ready, here are some products that may help you experience some of lemon balm’s health benefits for your own health and household.
Lemon Balm Products for Pets
And don’t forget that our non-human loved ones who might also enjoy the benefits.