Lemon Balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is a versatile herb that has been used for centuries for its numerous health, beauty, and culinary benefits. This herb is easy to grow and can be grown indoors or outdoors, making it a great addition to any garden or home.
From its anti-anxiety properties to its versatility in the kitchen, Lemon Balm is a must-have herb that is not only beneficial but also affordable and easy to grow.
1. Health Benefits
Lemon Balm is known for its numerous health benefits, including digestive benefits and can help with nausea, bloating, and indigestion. In addition, it supports the immune system and has antiviral properties, making it a great herb to have during cold and flu season.
Lemon Balm contains rosmarinic acid, a natural anti-inflammatory that has been shown to reduce swelling and redness, making it great for those with skin irritations.
2. Beauty and Skincare Benefits
The herb’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it great for reducing redness, and swelling, and helping to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This makes it a great natural remedy for those with skin irritations or conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or acne.
Lemon Balm has moisturizing properties, making it great for those with dry or sensitive skin. It can help to soothe and hydrate the skin, leaving it looking and feeling smooth and refreshed.
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3. Helps bees
One of the ways Lemon Balm helps the environment is by providing food for bees. The herb is a popular food source for bees, especially honeybees, and provides them with a rich source of nectar and pollen.
Bees are vital pollinators, responsible for 80% of plant pollination on Earth. This results in 1 in 4 of our food bites being from their efforts. If they were to disappear, our food supply would greatly decrease and drastically change our lives.
4. Medicinal Properties
Lemon Balm is a highly valued herb for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries for its healing benefits. The herb contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid, eucalyptol, and citronellal, which give it its unique medicinal properties.
Lemon Balm has a calming effect on the mind and body, making it a great natural remedy for those who suffer from anxiety, stress, or insomnia. The herb has a relaxing effect on the nervous system and has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
5. Repel Mosquitoes
Lemon Balm is not only beneficial for your health, but it can also help to keep annoying pests like mosquitoes at bay. The strong citrus scent of Lemon Balm is known to be a natural mosquito repellent, making it a great herb to grow in your garden or have in your home.
Crush fresh leaves and apply them directly to your skin, focusing on exposed areas like ankles and arms that are most susceptible to mosquito bites. Whether you are looking for a natural alternative to chemical-based mosquito repellents or simply want to enjoy the benefits of this versatile herb, Lemon Balm is a must-have for your home and garden.
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6. Culinary Benefits
Lemon Balm is not only valued for its numerous health and beauty benefits, but also for its culinary uses. This herb has a fresh, lemon-like flavour that can add a bright, citrusy note to a variety of dishes, from salads and sauces to baked goods and beverages.
Lemon Balm is a versatile herb that can be used fresh or dried, making it a great addition to any kitchen. The leaves of Lemon Balm can be chopped and added to salads, sauces, and marinades for a burst of flavour. The herb can also be used to make a flavorful tea, which can be enjoyed hot or iced, or added to lemonade or other beverages.
7. Control blood sugar levels
Lemon Balm has been shown to have an insulin-like effect, helping to regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production by the liver. In addition, Lemon Balm has been shown to have a positive effect on blood lipid levels, helping to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
8. Ease muscle soreness
Lemon Balm contains compounds that have a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the body, making it a useful herb for reducing muscle soreness and discomfort. When applied topically or consumed, Lemon Balm can help to reduce inflammation, ease muscle pain and discomfort, and promote faster recovery from exercise or physical activity.
9. Enhance Liver Health
Lemon Balm has been shown to have a positive effect on liver health, making it a valuable herb for those looking to maintain optimal liver function. The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in filtering toxins from the body, producing bile, and regulating metabolic processes. Maintaining healthy liver function is essential for overall health and well-being.
10. Improving memory
People who consumed lemon balm have improved memory in comparison to others. Lemon balm had a favourable effect on fragments of brain tissue and chemical receptors in Alzheimer’s patient’s brains, according to the study.
Lemon balm is easy to grow and can be found at most nurseries or online. Start growing lemon balm today and see how it can help improve your memory!
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11. Aid cold sores
Lemon balm has antiviral properties that have been found to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of cold sores. The herb’s active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, can inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that causes cold sores.
In addition, the anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of lemon balm can help reduce pain and promote healing. By applying lemon balm topically or consuming it in tea or supplement form, individuals can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
12. Sleep better
Lemon balm has been found to have a calming effect on the body and mind, making it a useful herb for improving sleep quality. The herb’s active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety.
Additionally, the herb’s ability to soothe the digestive system can also contribute to improved sleep by reducing discomfort or restlessness during the night.
Conclusion
Lemon balm is a versatile and beneficial herb that offers numerous health and wellness advantages. From its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties to its ability to promote better sleep and soothe digestive discomfort, lemon balm is a natural solution for many common health concerns. Its ease of growth, attractive appearance, and fragrant aroma make it a great addition to any garden or balcony. Whether using it for cooking, tea, or skincare, the potential benefits of incorporating lemon balm into one’s life are numerous and appealing.