This sweet smelling herb is a proven nerve tonic that has traditionally been used to lift the spirits and was even believed to encourage longevity. The 17th century herbalist John Evelyn wrote "Balm is sovereign for the brain, strengthening the memory and powerfully chasing away melancholy." That's why it is also regarded as an excellent herb for students of all ages. Drinking Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) tea is supposed to encourage a clear head. That's because of the herbs carminative, relaxant and anti-spasmodic actions that help the body to relax, reducing feelings of anxiety, mild depression, restlessness, and irritability. It also relieves indigestion, acidity, bloating and colicky pains that usually accompany stress. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) does not dry or store well so it is best to grow your own for daily picking. Plants lots because you will always be snipping leaves off for a quick pick-me-up tea or as a delicious addition to fruit salads, fresh salads and my favourite, add a few leaves to a long tall glass of ice cold Coca-Cola. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial that grows easily in moist rich soil and can take filtered shade. Although it is a member of the mint family, Lemon balm is not as invasive and makes a rather attractive garden ground that attracts bees and has a has a gorgeous lemon scent. It tends to die down in winter so it is a good idea to cut it back hard in spring to encourage new growth. In high humidity areas rust can be a problem, if this happens cut it right back and make sure it gets enough sun. Plants are readily available from plant centres and it can be grown from seed or plant cuttings taken in spring. The leaves are best harvested early in the morning before the heat of the day, leaves picked later in the day have lost a certain amount of their active constituents that give it its healing properties. Like most herbs, Lemon balm benefits from being harvested often, otherwise it tends to get leggy. For the avid gardener a dose of liquid fertilizer every 6 weeks will do wonders. If you want to start experimenting with herbal teas, this is the best one to start with. The taste is very mild and lightly lemony. Make a quick cup of tea by using two or three sprigs, pour boiling water over and let it draw for 5 minutes, strain and sweeten if you like. During the hot summer days Lemon balm makes an awesome iced tea. A more concentrated way of using Lemon balm is to make a tincture. Place 300g of fresh herb in a jar and add 250ml of brandy (not vodka which is normally used to make a tincture). Leave the herbs to steep for a month on a sunny window sill, gently shaking the jar daily. Strain and store in a dark bottle. Use in small amounts as a tonic. |
