Lemon balm

Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It grows up to 120 cm in height, has a square stem, and opposite, oval or heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges. Its two-lipped flowers can be white, pale yellow, or pale pink, and they bloom from June to August in the second year of growth. The fruit is a four-parted nutlet.

Lemon balm is native to the Mediterranean region, and it is cultivated in gardens in Latvia as a culinary and medicinal herb. Lemon balm is a warm-loving plant that needs protection during winter. The medicinal part of the plant is the leaves and leafy tops. Harvest the leaves when the plant is in full bloom, cutting the 60-80 cm long shoots and drying them. When drying, the temperature should not exceed 35 degrees Celsius.

Lemon balm leaves and tops contain essential oils, phenolic acids, triterpenes, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and minerals. The plant has a characteristic lemon fragrance. The biologically active compounds in lemon balm have diverse effects. They prevent spasms, have a calming and relaxing effect, strengthen the nervous system, alleviate depression, reduce blood pressure, relieve pain, and aid in the expulsion of gas from the body.

Lemon balm preparations are used to treat neuroses, hysteria, migraines, insomnia, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and more. Lemon balm helps alleviate dizziness, ringing in the ears, and increased libido. To prepare a lemon balm infusion, take 2 tablespoons of crushed herbs and pour 2 cups of boiling water over them. Let it steep for ½ to 1 hour, strain, and drink it several times throughout the day.

For the treatment of atherosclerosis accompanied by severe memory impairment, lemon balm leaves and meadowsweet herb are mixed in equal parts. Take 3 teaspoons of the powdered herb mixture, pour ½ liter of boiling water over it, let it steep for 30 minutes, strain, and drink ½ cup three times a day after meals.

To prevent heartburn and vomiting during pregnancy, mix 2 parts of ground lemon peel with 1 part of powdered lemon balm leaves and take it on the tip of a knife several times a day, followed by water. Lemon balm tincture can be used to treat depression. To prepare it, pour 50g of lemon balm leaves with 200 ml of 40% alcohol (vodka) and let it steep in a dark place for 14 days. Strain the tincture and take 30-40 drops with water three times a day after meals. Lemon balm leaf infusion can be used for calming and relaxing baths.