What is Lemon Balm Essential Oil?

Lemon Balm Essential Oil is the steam-distilled essential oil of Melissa officinalis, in the Lamiaceae family,. It is drawn from the leaves of the plant. Also called Melissa, it is one of the rarest and most expensive essential oils.

About the oil

Lemon balm essential oil, also called Melissa, is distilled from the leaves of Melissa officinalis, a mint-family herb with a soft lemony scent. It is one of the rarest oils on the market because the plant yields very little oil, typically less than 0.1 percent of its weight, so authentic Melissa oil is far more expensive than most oils.

Because of that cost, much material sold cheaply as Melissa is diluted or fabricated with citrus and citronella oils, so authenticity and price are worth paying attention to. Genuine lemon balm oil is a high-end perfumery material.

Aroma and character

The aroma of lemon balm oil is gentle, citrusy, and floral, with a soft herbaceous note.

Lemon Balm Essential Oil: form and size

We carry Lemon Balm Essential Oil bottled as a single, unblended essential oil in a 1 fl oz bottle.

Safety and handling

Essential oils are highly concentrated. Dilute lemon balm oil in a carrier oil before any topical use, keep it away from the eyes, and store it tightly capped and out of reach of children and pets. This oil is not intended for internal use.

Lemon Balm Essential Oil at a glance

Botanical name

Melissa officinalis

Family

Lamiaceae

Plant part

leaves

Extraction

Steam-distilled

Aroma

citrusy, floral

Size

1 fl oz bottle