Sierra Naturals: Lemon Balm also known as Melissa Officinalis

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Lemon Balm also known as Melissa Officinalis

I Love Lemon Balm! This sweet herb is part of the mint family and has a steady history for calming the nerves and many other benefits. Lemon balm is so gentle that it can be given to a child, in small doses of course. This beautiful herb helps to relieve sadness, depression and anxiety. Lemon Balm in a cream or ointment form is known to cleanse the skin and has antibacterial properties.

The leaves can be used as a mosquito repellant when they are crushed and rubbed on the skin...Cool huh? If you have a green thumb like I do... then you will want to add Lemon balm to your garden because bees and butterflies are very attracted to the nectar of the flowers, which can help your garden flourish though pollination.They can't resist the lemony smell and pretty white flowers of the lemon balm plant.

Lemon balm in aromatherapy (applying or inhaling fragrances to affect the mood) was effective in calming overexcited individuals, specifically those suffering from dementia. Dementia indicates problems with at least two brain functions, such as memory loss and impaired judgment or language. Lemon balm helps to block some of the secretion of the thyroid gland and its ability to release hormones in the body. Consequently, lemon balm has been implemented for use in connection with Grave's disease, which is an auto-immune condition where individuals suffer from excess thyroid hormone due to an overactive thyroid.

Lemon balm is effective in skin cleansing solutions as a cleanser or astringent. If you are looking for a natural facial cleanser, look for products with lemon balm as an active ingredient because the plant is effective in fighting acne.

Other uses: Add the leaves to iced tea or place sprigs of fresh lemon balm in a tall chilled wine glass with white wine; add a splash of sparkling water for a summer spritzer.

Lemon balm tea...Yum!

Try giving a cup of lemon-balm tea to school children faced with tests. It will help them remain calm and receptive. Give your child 1 cup of the herbal tea before and after school, as well as at bedtime. Add a teaspoon of agave for a nice treat before bed.