Health Benefits of Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a perennial herb if the mint family. It grows up to 30 to 60 cm in height and lasts for two years or longer. It has a creeping root system, but is easy for two years or linger. It has creeping root system, but it easy to keep in check. The plant has egg shaped leaves and small white or pale pink flowers. It has a strong and agreeable odor, reminiscent of lemon, which gives it the name lemon balm. Its leaves and flowering tops constitute the drug.


The herb is said to promote longevity. Lemon balm was prescribed by the London Dispensary in the 17th century to be taken every morning to renew youthful vigor, strengthen the brain, relieve languishing nature and prevent baldness. A welsh prince, who lived up to 108 years, attributed his longevity to regular drinking of balm tree

The herb yields a very small quantity of essential oil. This oil comprises of citral citronellal euginol acetate, geraniol etc.

Healing Power and Curative Properties
Lemon balm is valuable for brain and for strengthening memory. It prevents brain fatigue, sharpens comprehension counteracts depression and revives the spirit. A cold infusion of the balm has a calming effect on the nerves. About 30 grams of the herb is put in half a liter of cold water and allowed to stand for 12 hours. The infusion is then strained and taken in small doses throughout the day.

Fevers
The herb is antipyretic and useful in treating fevers. Tea made from the leaves brings down body temperature.

Other diseases
The herb is useful in treating several other diseases. It is used to strengthen gums and remove bad taste from the mouth. Leaves and stems are considered useful in liver and heart diseases as also in venomous insect’s bites.
Methods of Preservation: the plants are cut when they are in full bloom and dried in shade and dried in shade to preserve the natural color.