Lemon Balm – 9 Amazing Health Benefits + Growing & Uses

Lemon Balm – 9 Amazing Health Benefits + Growing & Uses

Lemon balm has a reputation as an incredible health support herb. Its name is attributed to its lemony scent. The plant's purported effect on strength and longevity is attributed to its popularity, and scientific studies have only helped strengthen its reputation. Let's take a closer look at nine impressive health benefits of lemon balm.

Health Benefits of Lemon Balm

1. Calms the mind

Lemon balm has been used for centuries to care for wounds and relieve insomnia. Some confirm that the oil's pure, sweet aroma promotes a feeling of relaxation. Most sweet oils are said to provide the same benefits.

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2. Encourages restful sleep

Lemon balm promotes a restful sleep, especially for those who have trouble falling asleep. In one study, parents reported that their children slept more peacefully throughout the night with lemon balm. It's not just restless children and their sleep-deprived parents who benefit from this. A placebo-controlled study found that menopausal women who suffer from sleep disorders reported much better rest after taking lemon balm and valerian extract. ((link removed))

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3. Improves skin appearance

The first cosmetic use of lemon balm dates back to the 14th century, when the Queen of Hungary reportedly used it to remove years from her face by softening wrinkles. Today it is still recommended to improve the appearance of skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Lemon balm also contains volatile components such as caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and rosmarinic acid, which work together to support the body's natural response to the harmful organisms that cause lip defects. ((link removed))

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4. Increases alertness

Although lemon balm calms the mind, it certainly does not dull the spirit. In the right portion it does exactly the opposite. An Australian study reported improved alertness in participants who took the herb. Reported side effects included, if you can call them that, calm feelings and a positive mood. ((link removed))

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5. Sharpens memory and problem solving

Studies like the one described above observed improved memory and problem solving in subjects, regardless of age, after taking lemon balm. Whether young or old, those who took lemon balm supplements showed improvement in problem-solving and recall skills.

Although preliminary, some studies have examined lemon balm and its relationship to brain health. When combined with acupuncture, eugenol, a powerful antioxidant in lemon balm, helped the subjects restore memory-related functions. Another study showed that after 16 weeks of administering a lemon balm extract containing 500 mg of citral – a component of lemon balm oil – participants had a significant improvement in brain function. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

Another study reported that lemon balm stimulates memory and improves mood. A phytochemical found in lemon balm suppresses the enzymes that break down the neurotransmitter responsible for memory and thinking. ((link removed))

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6. Powerful antioxidant

Lemon balm is loaded with antioxidants that protect cells from free radicals. Studies on eugenol and rosmarinic acid show that they support healthy brain aging. The list of powerful antioxidants includes ferulic acid, caffeic acid and quercetin. ((link removed))

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7. Supports the liver

The liver detoxifies dangerous compounds from the body and can become tired and sluggish over time, especially if you eat an unhealthy diet. Animal studies have shown that lemon balm is effective in protecting the liver from some of the negative effects of an unhealthy diet. Lemon balm also supports the production of two important antioxidants in the liver – glutathione and superoxide dismutase. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

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8. Supports normal blood sugar

Many herbs that provide antioxidants also promote balanced blood sugar. Although preliminary, research suggests that lemon balm may promote normal blood sugar levels. ((link removed))

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9. Protects brain cells

In addition to its positive effects on memory, thinking, and mood, research suggests that lemon balm supports brain health. Antioxidants like eugenol stop free radicals before they can attack brain cells. Rosmarinic acid, a key compound in lemon balm, is beneficial in this regard. If the brain doesn't get enough blood, it can quickly become an emergency that affects brain function. Animal models show that lemon balm appears to protect the brain when provided shortly after such an episode. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

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Tips for Growing Lemon Balm

Lemon balm's many benefits might inspire you to grow your own. Lemon balm prefers well-drained clay or sandy loam and a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Plant the seeds indoors in early spring (6-8 weeks before the last frost) or sow the seeds on the surface of outdoor soil after the last spring frost. You should see the first shoots within 12 to 21 days of sowing. When the leaves are ready to harvest, dry them on clotheslines to save them for later use. On average, it takes about ten weeks to go from seed to full leaf plants.

Use lemon balm

There are different ways to use lemon balm. Many people make lemon balm part of their diet in the form of tea or supplements. Lemon balm essential oil has amazing aromatherapy uses. Regardless of your preferred use, organic lemon balm is always the best choice. Lemon balm is an essential ingredient in many common skin care and beauty products due to its soothing properties.

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