Lemon balm Melissa officinalis
ABOUT
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a perennial herb that possesses a distinctive lemon scent when its leaves are crushed. The plant has a bushy, clump-forming habit and its stems are square-shaped, a common characteristic of the mint family to which it belongs. Lemon balm's leaves are heart-shaped with a slightly toothed edge, and they are a bright green color that can add a lushness to garden landscapes. During the warmer months, lemon balm produces small, delicate flowers that can come in white or a soft yellow, attracting bees and other pollinators to the garden. The leaves are quite soft to the touch, and they grow opposite each other along the stem. When bruised or crushed, the leaves emit a pleasant, lemony fragrance which is loved by many gardeners and has earned the plant a place in many culinary and medicinal gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Lemon Balm, Common Balm, Balm Mint, Sweet Balm, Sweet Mary, Melissa, Bee Balm, Honey Plant, Garden Balm, Heart's Delight, Melissa, Dropsy Plant.
Common names
Thymus melissa E.H.L.Krause, Melissa parviflora Benth., Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima (Sibth. & Sm.) Arcang., Melissa officinalis var. altissima Sibth. & Sm., Melissa graveolens Host, Melissa grandiflora (L.) Scheele, Melissa hortensis Mill., Melissa officinalis f. albiflora I.Zhigulsk., Melissa officinalis var. citrata Ehrh., Melissa officinalis subsp. officinalis, Melissa officinalis var. officinalis, Melissa romana Mill., Melissa vulgaris Benth.
ToxicityTo humans
Lemon balm is generally considered safe for most people in the amounts found in foods and most medicinal doses. It is not commonly known to be toxic when taken appropriately. However, mild side effects can occur, such as headache, nausea, bloating, gas, vomiting, indigestion, dizziness, and stomach pain. It can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals. High doses may have a sedative effect and can potentially affect thyroid function, so people with thyroid conditions should be cautious. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using lemon balm, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
To pets
Lemon balm is not typically toxic to pets and is often considered safe for dogs and cats when used in small quantities. However, it's always important to be cautious when introducing new herbs to pets, as they can have individual sensitivities or allergies. If a pet ingests large amounts of lemon balm, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea or vomiting. Monitoring pets closely and consulting with a veterinarian if any adverse effects are observed is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Stress relief: Lemon balm has traditionally been used to ease stress and anxiety.
- Cognitive function: Some studies suggest that lemon balm can improve memory and brain function.
- Insect repellent: The plant's essential oils can be used as a natural way to repel certain insects.
- Aromatic uses: Lemon balm is often used in aromatherapy for its soothing fragrance.
- Culinary use: Its leaves can be used in teas, beverages, and seasonings for their lemony flavor.
- Sleep aid: It's sometimes used to promote sleep due to its calming effects.
- Decorative: Lemon balm's attractive foliage can be an ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes.
Medical Properties- Antiviral: Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, has demonstrated antiviral properties, particularly against herpes simplex virus.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that exhibit antioxidant effects, potentially reducing oxidative stress.
- Antispasmodic: May help relieve spasms in the digestive tract.
- Anxiolytic: Shown to have calming effects, potentially reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
- Cognitive Enhancer: Some research suggests lemon balm may improve cognitive function and alleviate symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
- Sedative: Can have mild sedative effects to aid with sleep disturbances.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits antibacterial and antifungal activity against a variety of pathogens.
- Carminative: May help reduce bloating and flatulence by relaxing the digestive tract.
- Gastroprotective: Might have a protective effect on the gastrointestinal system.
- Neuroprotective: Has the potential to offer protection against neurodegenerative diseases.
- Mood Improver: Often used to enhance mood and alleviate symptoms of mild depression, though scientific evidence is not definitive.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural wood polish, the oils from Melissa officinalis can be used to nourish and protect wooden furniture.
- In beekeeping, its flowers can be planted near hives as an attractant to support the health and productivity of bees with its rich nectar.
- The plant can be used to prepare a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a gentle, yellowish hue.
- It serves as a natural insect repellent when crushed leaves are rubbed onto the skin or when its essential oils are diffused.
- Melissa officinalis can be infused in oils and used in aromatherapy for its calming lemony fragrance.
- It’s sometimes used as a flavoring agent in ice creams and various desserts due to its subtle lemon flavor.
- The dried leaves are sometimes included in potpourri blends to impart a fresh, citrusy aroma to rooms.
- It can be used in crafting natural, homemade soap for its scent and gentle properties on the skin.
- Fresh leaves may be employed as a natural garnish for drinks and dishes, adding a decorative touch and a light lemon aroma.
- In the garden, Melissa officinalis can be used as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiLemon balm is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLemon balm is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Lemon balm, as commonly known, is often associated with love due to its calming and soothing properties, which are believed to attract romantic vibes and maintain harmonious relationships.
- Healing: Historically linked with various medicinal uses, lemon balm symbolizes healing, both emotional and physical well-being.
- Success: The plant is thought to bring success, especially when used in spells or carried as an amulet, due to its reputation for invigorating and uplifting properties that could enhance one’s spirit towards achieving goals.
- Longevity: Lemon balm's reputed longevity-enhancing properties extend its symbolism to a long and healthy life.
- Empathy: The soothing nature of lemon balm is also associated with compassion and understanding, symbolizing empathy and the ability to soothe others’ pain.
- Sympathy: Similarly, it is used in sympathetic remedies for its comforting qualities, reflecting a sign of solace and support during times of distress.
- Renewal: The herb can represent renewal because of its fresh, citrusy scent and its ability to rejuvenate the mind and body.
WaterLemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, should be watered deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means the plant will need water approximately once a week, but this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. During the active growing season in spring and summer, lemon balm may require more frequent watering, such as twice a week, especially in hotter, drier climates. It is important to avoid overwatering, as lemon balm does not like to sit in overly moist soil. A good rule of thumb is to provide the plant with about 1-2 gallons of water each watering session to ensure the soil is moistened through the root zone.
LightLemon balm thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It will grow most vigorously with at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in regions with very hot summers, lemon balm benefits from afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat. A spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade would be an ideal location for this plant.
TemperatureLemon balm prefers a temperate climate and does well in temperatures ranging between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive minimal frosts and cold down to around 20°F but may die back to the ground in freezing temperatures and return in the spring. The maximum temperature lemon balm can handle is around 90°F, after which the plant may become stressed.
PruningPruning lemon balm promotes bushier growth and prevents it from becoming leggy. Trim the plant back in the spring to encourage fresh growth and again after flowering if you wish to prevent self-seeding. Pruning can be done every few weeks during the growing season to maintain the desired shape and size. The best time for more extensive pruning is in early spring or after the plant has flowered.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLemon balm (Melissa officinalis) thrives in well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand in equal parts can create an ideal growing medium for lemon balm.
RepottingLemon balm should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate the growth of the plant. Spring is the best time to repot this herb.
Humidity & MistingLemon balm prefers moderate humidity levels, but it is quite adaptable and can tolerate the average home's humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and regular watering for indoor lemon balm.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade, with well-draining soil and space to spread.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleLemon balm, known scientifically as Melissa officinalis, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in warm soil after being sown in late spring or early summer. The seedlings emerge and grow into young plants with characteristic lemon-scented leaves. As it matures, lemon balm develops a bushy form and can reach up to 70–150 cm in height. In mid to late summer, small white or yellowish flowers bloom, attracting pollinators such as bees, which are important for the plant's reproduction. After pollination, the flowers produce tiny nutlet fruits, each containing seeds for the next generation. The plant is a perennial herb and can regrow each spring from its overwintering root system after dying back in the fall.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is best propagated through seeds. The ideal time to sow lemon balm seeds is in the spring after the last frost has passed when temperatures are moderate. To propagate lemon balm from seeds, one should scatter the seeds over the surface of a well-draining soil mix, pressing them gently into the soil without covering them as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the pot in a warm, bright location, avoiding direct sunlight until germination occurs, which typically takes 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into pots or directly into the garden, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches apart (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters). Lemon balm prefers a sunny location but can tolerate partial shade and will thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it a versatile addition to many garden settings.
