Herbs - Lemon Balm

 

Lemon Balm

(also referred to as...)

Balm, Common Balm

Latin Name: Melissa officinalis

Family: Labiatae, Lamiaceae

 
Description

This plant has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was used originally as a bee plant, hence the name melissa which is Greek for "honey bee". Its therapeutic uses were promoted by Arab physicians in the 10^th and 11^th centuries for use in anxiety and depression.

Lemon Balm is native to Southern Europe, Mediterranean and Central Europe. It was introduced all over temperate northern climates.

For harvest, cut off young shoots approximately 30cm long and use fresh or dry below 35°C in a shaded location. Plants can be harvested two to there times per year between June and September. Dried herb should be used within six months as most benefits are lost on storage.

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