The Medicinal & Magical Uses of Lemon Balm

For over 2,000 years man has cultivated lemon balm for its many perceived medicinal and magical uses. Tenth and eleventh century Arab physicians believed it promoted longevity and uplifted mood, King Charles V of 14th century France drank it daily as a health tonic and 16th century physician Paracelsus dubbed it "the Elixir of Life." Also known as Melissa, the Greek word for bee, balm is often rubbed on beehives to encourage bees to return year after year. Be aware before using lemon balm for medicinal purposes that herbal medicine is an alternative therapy meant to supplement, not replace, proper medical care.

Mental Health Benefits

• Lemon balm has calming, sedative and anti-depressive properties and so is used to relieve stress and tension, as well as many associated symptoms and conditions, such as tension headaches, panic attacks, anxiety, irritability and hyperactivity. It is also used for more nervous-related problems like insomnia, vertigo, shock and hysteria.

Physical Health Benefits

• Clinical studies have found that lemon balm can be used to treat hyperthyroidism by inhibiting thyroid function. Lemon balm can help lower blood pressure and alleviate heart palpitations and is often used as a general tonic for the circulatory system and the heart. It is also used to help relieve digestive spasms and flatulence as well as nausea and vomiting, colic and indigestion, especially when related to depression or anxiety. It has respiratory benefits as well, helping with symptoms of asthma, chronic coughing and bronchitis. It helps induce sweating and can aid in reducing fever associated with flu.

External Uses

• Externally, lemon balm has been found effective in treating cold sores and genital herpes when applied as a one-percent cream when symptoms first appear. It can also be beneficial as a preventative for staving off outbreaks. Women may add a balm infusion to their bath in order to spur menstruation. It is widely used as an insect repellent, as it contains citronella, and in poultice form as a treatment for insect bites and stings.

Magical Uses

• Writers over the centuries have praised lemon balm for its ability to dispel melancholy and in aromatherapy it is used to combat depression. Its pleasing scent makes it a popular ingredient in herbal pillows, often used to promote relaxation and sound sleep. Lemon balm is associated with the energies of the moon and used to help balance emotions, allowing us to perceive our feelings without becoming wrapped up in them. It is also said to be ruled by the planet Venus and revered by worshipers of the Goddess Diana, often used to invoke the Goddess and open one up to the joys of romantic love.