The botanical name of lemon balm is Melissa officinalis, which belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is commonly called Biliotan. Lemon balm has various health benefits. Lemon balm is known to enhance longevity. The herb is anti-viral, tranquilizer and controls tumor formation. Thus, the herb is a very important medicinal herb.
Small amounts of oil is extracted from the herb which contains geraniol and citronellal euginol acetate. Lemon balm has several uses in aromatherapy. Various health benefits of the herb are discussed in this article.
Health Benefits of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has the following medicinal benefits:
- Stomach Functions — Use of lemon balm helps promote action of stomach and provides strength to its functions.
- Memory Enhancer — This herb is valuable for the brain and it works as a memory enhancer. The herb sharpens comprehension, brain fatigue, fights depression and rejuvenates the spirit. Balm’s cold infusion has a relaxing effect on the nerves. In ½ a liter of cold water, put 30 grams of lemon balm herb and let it stand for 12 hours. Strain the infusion and take it in small doses throughout the day.
- Gums — It makes the gums stronger and also eradicate the bad taste from the mouth.
- Liver and Heart Diseases — These diseases are treated with the stems and leaves of lemon balm.
- Insect Bites — Stems and leaves of the herb are considered to be important for treatment of poisonous insects’ bites.
- Fevers — The herb is an anti-pyretic and thus, it is used to cure high body temperatures.
- Anxiety, insomnia and herpes can be treated effectively with lemon balm herb.
The above are some of the health benefits of lemon balm herb. The herb should be taken with care as it can interact with various other medications or supplements. Pregnant women and feeding mother should avoid taking this herb.
