melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to Europe and the Mediterranean region but now grown worldwide. The leaves are used medicinally and contain volatile oils (citral, citronellal), polyphenols (rosmarinic acid), flavonoids, tannins, and other phytochemicals. Lemon balm has traditionally been used for its calming effects on the nervous system—helping with anxiety, stress-related symptoms, insomnia—as well as for digestive complaints such as indigestion and bloating. It also exhibits antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus when applied topically and may have mild antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some studies suggest benefits for cognitive function (including in dementia/Alzheimer’s disease), mood elevation in depression or anxiety states, relief of PMS symptoms, antispasmodic effects on smooth muscle (gastrointestinal tract), cardiotonic actions supporting heart health by reducing palpitations or blood pressure modestly in some cases. Its mechanism of action is thought to involve modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission via muscarinic/nicotinic acetylcholine receptors; inhibition of viral replication; antioxidant activity; anti-inflammatory pathways; possible thyroid hormone antagonism by inhibiting TSH receptor binding.

Other names

lemon balmbalmlemon balmsmelissa officinalibee balm