You’ve probably seen lemon balm in your local grocery store or even growing in your backyard, but have you ever stopped to consider its numerous uses? This savvy guide, “How Do I Use Lemon Balm,” will enlighten you on how this humble herb can be a game-changer in your everyday life. From health benefits such as aiding digestion and reducing stress, to culinary uses, adding a delicious citrusy punch to your dishes – let’s embark on this exciting journey of making the most out of lemon balm.
This image is property of pixabay.com.
Understanding the Basics of Lemon Balm
What is Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a perennial herb from the mint family that emits a strong, calming and refreshing lemon scent when its leaves are crushed. Its botanical name is Melissa officinalis, and it is characterized by its bright green leaves, its tiny, subtle flowers, and above all, its unmistakably aromatic smell.
The Origin and History of Lemon Balm
Originally native to South-Central Europe, Northern Africa and West Asia, lemon balm is now found across the world. Celebrated for its plethora of potential health benefits, lemon balm has been cherished since ancient times. The Greeks and Romans recognized the herb for its calming abilities, using it to relieve anxiety and promote sleep, while in the Middle Ages, it was employed in cookery and brewing and to attract bees.
The active ingredients in Lemon Balm
The active ingredients in lemon balm are primarily volatile oils, including citronellal and geranial, which give it its distinct lemony smell. Also present are flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid. It is these compounds that imbibe it with its myriad therapeutic properties.
Culinary Uses of Lemon Balm
Using Lemon Balm in Salads
The tangy, fresh flavour of lemon balm makes it a wonderful addition to salads. Chopped lemon balm leaves impart a burst of zingy freshness that enhances the taste of your greens.
Lemon Balm as a Garnish
For an extra pop of color and flavor, use lemon balm leaves to garnish your favorite dishes. The leaves’ vibrant green color and subtle lemon scent can enhance everything from fish and chicken dishes to pastas and summer cocktails.
Cooking with Lemon Balm
Lemon balm can be used as an excellent replacement or compliment to lemon zest or lemongrass in a variety of dishes. Its fresh, lemony flavor pairs well with poultry, fish, and vegetable dishes. You can also use it to add depth to your soups, sauce or marinades.
Using Lemon Balm in Teas and Beverages
Lemon balm is also often used in teas and liqueurs. Its invigorating citrusy scent and flavour enhance the taste of these beverages, while their soothing warmness can help to calm your mind and relax your body.
This image is property of pixabay.com.
Lemon Balm for Health Benefits
Lemon Balm as a Digestive Aid
Lemon balm has traditionally been used to improve digestion. It helps relieve discomfort related to digestive issues like bloating, gas, stomach cramps and indigestion.
Using Lemon Balm for Anxiety and Stress Relief
Lemon balm has been known to have a calming effect. Its aromatic scent, when inhaled, can reduce anxiety, promote feelings of calm and positivity and help you relax.
Lemon Balm for Sleep Disorders
When consumed as a tea before bedtime, lemon balm can help improve sleep quality. It calms your mind, relaxes your body and supports deeper, rejuvenating sleep.
Using Lemon Balm to Boost Immunity
Rich in antioxidants, lemon balm helps boost your immune system, protecting your body from harmful free radicals and supporting overall health.
Topical Uses of Lemon Balm
Using Lemon Balm in Skincare
Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, lemon balm is often used in skincare. It can help calm irritated skin, reduce redness and help treat conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis.
Lemon Balm for Insect Bites and Rash
Topical application of lemon balm can offer relief from itching and swelling due to insect bites or skin rashes. It’s even thought to speed up the healing process.
Lemon Balm as a Natural Repellent
The strong lemon scent of lemon balm is known to repel mosquitoes and other insects, making it a natural alternative to commercial bug sprays.
This image is property of pixabay.com.
Lemon Balm in Aromatherapy
The Aromatic Properties of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is highly reputed in aromatherapy due to its refreshing and invigorating lemony fragrance. It improves mood, instills positivity, and promotes mental clarity.
Using Lemon Balm Essential Oil in Aromatherapy
The diluted essential oil of lemon balm can be dispersed in a diffuser to create a calm, soothing atmosphere. It can relieve stress, promote tranquillity and reduce symptoms of anxiety.
How to Grow Lemon Balm at Home
Choosing the Right Soil and Location for Lemon Balm
Like most herbs, lemon balm prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. However, it can also tolerate partial shade. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with a pH level of around 6 to 7.
Maintaining Lemon Balm Plant
Regular pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of your lemon balm plant. It also discourages woody growth. Ensuring that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged, will keep the plant healthy and robust.
Harvesting and Storing Lemon Balm
Lemon balm leaves can be harvested as soon as the plant is mature. They can be used fresh or dried for later use. For drying, tie the cut stems and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place. Once dried, store your leaves in an airtight container.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions while Using Lemon Balm
Common Side Effects of Lemon Balm
While lemon balm is generally safe for consumption, some people might experience side effects like dizziness, vomiting, abdominal pain, and wheezing. It’s always recommended to start with small doses to see how your body reacts.
Precautions While Using Lemon Balm
For pregnant and breastfeeding women and people with thyroid conditions, it’s highly recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using lemon balm as it could potentially have adverse effects.
Interactions with Medications
Lemon balm may interact with certain medications, especially those related to thyroid disorders, sedatives, and medications that affect serotonin levels. Those with medical conditions or on any medications should consult their doctor before using lemon balm.
Making Lemon Balm Part of Your Daily Routine
Incorporating Lemon Balm in Diet
You can easily incorporate lemon balm in your diet by adding it to your salads, drinks, or dishes, to not only enjoy its refreshing flavor, but also to take advantage of its health benefits.
Using Lemon Balm in Daily Skincare
For a natural skincare routine, you can include lemon balm. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help treat a variety of skin conditions and promote healthy skin.
Making Lemon Balm Tea a Part of your Routine
Starting your day with a cup of lemon balm tea or sipping it before bedtime can do wonders for your health. It can improve digestion, boost immunity, relieve stress, and promote good sleep.
Use of Lemon Balm in Pets
Benefits of Lemon Balm for Pets
Lemon balm may be beneficial for pets’ stress and anxiety relief, too. It can also treat wounds and help repel insects.
Safe Usage of Lemon Balm in Pets
While lemon balm can be beneficial for pets, it’s essential to ensure safe usage. Always consult your vet before introducing any new herb to your pet’s diet or regimen.
Popular Lemon Balm Recipes
Lemon Balm Tea Recipe
To make lemon balm tea, steep fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy either hot or cold. Add honey or lemon juice for extra flavor.
Lemon Balm sauces and Spreads
Enhance the flavor of your sauces and spreads by adding fresh lemon balm leaves. It imparts a delightful tangy note that can bring a new twist to your standard recipes.
Using Lemon Balm in Desserts
Lemon balm can be a delightful addition to desserts like sorbets, fruit salads, cakes, or cookies, delivering a refreshing lemony burst.
Whether you are a health enthusiast, foodie or gardener, lemon balm has something to offer everyone. Be sure to make the most of this incredible herb.
