Uses for Lemon Balm Plants

History

• Lemon balm is native to southern Europe and northern Africa. It has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and has spread around the world. Ancient Greek physicians steeped lemon balm in wine and used it to treat wounds and insect bites. Lemon balm has appeared in literature: Shakespeare referred to lemon balm in "The Merry Wives of Windsor" when it was strewn about the floor as an air freshener. French Carmelite nuns in the 1600s made a special water with lemon balm which they sold as a tonic for longevity and happiness. Thomas Jefferson included lemon balm as a medicinal and culinary herb in his gardens, and used it to make syrups and drinks.

Medicinal Uses

• Lemon balm is usually combined with other herbs, in particular chamomile or valerian, to make a calming tea for sleeplessness and anxiety. In aromatherapy it has been studied for patients with Alzheimer's and dementia, and it is used in an ointment for herpes simplex lip sores. Some studies indicate that lemon balm has properties that may make it useful against HIV. Lemon balm oils contain terpenes and tannins which are thought to produce the anti-viral results. It also contains eugenol, an antibacterial that can induce numbness and soothe spasms.

Culinary Uses

• Use lemon balm fresh or dried as a savory herb in soups, stews, poultry and dressing. Besides its medicinal use, lemon balm tea is a delicious drink, hot or cold. Lemon balm adds extra lemon flavor and aroma to lemonade. Substitute lemon balm for mint in any recipe. Add tender lemon balm leaves to mesclun blends for a citrusy salad. The smaller leaves, stems and flowers from the newest growth will have a refreshing, sweet taste.

Garden Uses

• Although the flowers on lemon balm are tiny and insignificant, bees love them. In fact, "Melissa" in the botanical name is Greek for "honeybee". Lemon balm is a lovely green texture plant in the garden and it contributes a heady aroma. Use sprigs of lemon balm in a cut flower arrangement for greenery and to enhance fragrance.

Cultivation

• Lemon balm is easy to grow, and is winter hardy to zone 4 in the U.S. Propagate new plants from divisions or cuttings, or plant seeds. Seeds germinate best if they are very lightly covered or left uncovered. Grow lemon balm in full sun to partial shade. Keep the plants trimmed to encourage new top growth which will provide a supply of fresh tender leaves to use throughout the season.