Lemon balm is a member of the mint family, and it is native to Europe and Mediterranean. The herb grows to a maximum height of 28-59 inches, and its leaves have a mild lemon scent that is similar to mint. In the summer the herb produces small white flowers that are full of nectar. However, lemon balm should not be confused with bee balm, although its white flowers do attract bees. It is the leaves of the herb that are used for treatment and also for flavoring. The herb is also used by beekeepers to attract and keep bees in the hive. The herb is grown as an ornamental plant and also for its oil which is used in perfumery. Lemon balm tea, essential oil, and extracts are used in both traditional and alternative medicine including aromatherapy. The herb has been cultivated since the 16th century, but medical research on the herb is still ongoing to establish its safety and effects.Lemon balm was historically used to reduce stress and anxiety, improve appetite, promote sleep, and ease indigestion pain and discomfort (Carnat, Carnat, Fraisse, & Lamaison, 1998). It was also used to reduce colic in the past. Lemon balm whose Latin name...

Lemon balm is referred to as a calming herb due to the mild sedative it offers individuals. Lemon balm oil is popularly used in aromatherapy to relax the individual, but it is commonly used with citronella oil, lemon oil, or other oils.
There have been several studies that have indicated that lemon balm combined with herbs like hops, chamomile, and valerian does help to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. There have been few studies that have examined lemon balm by itself. In one of the studies carried out lemon balm was mixed with valerian and 81% of those who took the herbal mixture reported sleeping better than those who were given a placebo (Taavoni & Haghani, 2013). Therefore, it is not clear from this study if the results were caused by the combination or they were caused by valerian or lemon balm.

Lemon balm was also used to enhance memory and uplift spirits traditionally. There are many folklore stories that have indicated the various uses of lemon balm in the past, and they all point out the same…