Melissa officinalis
Traditional therapeutic use
Internally
- Nerve tonic – it contains the most natural sedative Green seduxen (diazepam).
- Sedative.
- Appetite-suppressant.
- Fever reducer (antipyretic).
- Helps with alcohol and drug withdrawal treatments.
- Eliminates stress-based stomach pain and diarrhoea.
- Improves restlessness in heart palpitations – the lemon balm is an ingredient of a treatment herbal tea mix for this condition – contact us for a personalised consultation.
- Sleep enhancer and relaxant – the lemon balm is an ingredient of a treatment herbal tea mix for this condition.
- Antispasmodic.
- Anti-flatulence.
- Gallbladder enhancer.
- Antiviral against shingles (herpes zoster) and other herpes viruses (cold sores).
- There’s also research to suggest that lemon balm can be used to relieve menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Reduces stress headaches.
- Toothache.
Externally
- Reduces joint and muscle rheumatic pains.
- Soothes irritated skin.
- Antibacterial for cuts and scrapes.
Possible side effects
Lemon balm should only be used for a short period of time. A general rule of thumb is to take one week off after every three weeks of use. You shouldn’t take lemon balm for longer than four months at a time without a break.
You should talk to your doctor before using if you’re taking:
- Glaucoma medications.
- Thyroid medications.
- Barbiturates.
- Sedatives.
- Drugs that affect serotonin.
You should also talk to your doctor before using if:
- You’re pregnant.
- You’re breastfeeding.
- You want to administer lemon balm to an infant or child under the age of 12.
- You have scheduled surgery.
Because these products do contain active ingredients, please ensure that you do not exceed the recommended doses and if in any doubt, or if you experience any side effects – however slight – please consult your doctor or healthcare professional.
