Lemon Balm Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm part of the mint family, and is native to south-central Europe, the Mediterranean basin, Iran, and Central Asia. It was introduced to North America by European colonists and cultivated and naturalized widely from then on.

Other names include bee balm, bee's leaf, honey plant, and sweet balm

Ancient Greeks believed that bees would never abandon hives where lemon balm grew, and often used the plant as a marker. Turns out, bees do use it to find their way back home. Butterflies are also attracted to the plant.

Image from www.soilassociation.org

Life Cycle

Image from https://www.botanicalartspress.com/blog/2019/7/18/lemon-balm-medicine-moment

Identification

1-2 feet high (unless potted)
Lemon smell when bruised, and a citrusy taste (don't use taste to ID!!)
Squared stem
Opposite leaf arrangement
Ovate, toothed, coarse leaves 1-3 inches long

Flowers are white and yellow, with 4 stamens, and are ~0.5 inches long

Lemon balm has traditionally been used for improving mood and cognitive function, including reducing anxiety. It can also relieve stomach pain and nausea, menstrual cramps, and headaches.

The stems and leaves both taste bright and citrusy, with mint undertones

Threats

Lemon balm is not susceptible to many insects or diseases because it has a naturally high oil content. Root rot can be an issue if over-watered, but this doesn't usually happen in natural environments and can be avoided easily with potted plants.

The Power of Lemon Balm

Recipes

Lemon Balm Pesto

Cold Brew Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm Mojitos

Sources

Click here for work cited!

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