Lemon Balm Powder (Melissa officinalis)

Ground dried leaves of Melissa officinalis, Lemon Balm, the gentle lemon-scented mint native to the Mediterranean. The genus name "Melissa" comes from the Greek word for "honeybee" - beekeepers traditionally planted lemon balm near hives because the plant's nectar strongly attracts bees. Lemon Balm has over 2,000 years of recorded use as a calming nervine and gentle cognitive support.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Melissa officinalis

Family

Lamiaceae (mint family)

Genus name origin

From Greek "melissa" meaning "honeybee"

Native region

Mediterranean basin and Western Asia

Active compounds

Rosmarinic acid, citral, citronellal, geraniol

Traditional uses

Calming nervine, sleep support, cognitive support, digestive aromatic

What is Lemon Balm?

Lemon Balm is a perennial herb in the mint family with bright lemon-scented leaves. The plant has been cultivated in Mediterranean herb gardens for over 2,000 years. The Carmelite nuns of 17th-century France made the famous "Carmelite water" - a lemon balm-based herbal preparation that became one of the most popular European herbal remedies for nervous tension. Modern research has explored Lemon Balm for calming and cognitive effects.

How to Use Lemon Balm Powder

Quick tea: stir 1 teaspoon into 8 oz hot water; steep 5 minutes covered (covering retains the volatile lemon character); strain. Capsules: fill size 00 capsules; common use is 1-2 capsules for calming. Sleep blends: combine with other gentle nervines (chamomile, passionflower, oat straw). Smoothies: blend in for fresh lemon character.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Balm used for?
Calming nervine, sleep support, and cognitive support.

Why is the genus called "Melissa"?
From Greek "melissa" meaning "honeybee" - bees are strongly attracted to lemon balm.

What's the difference between Lemon Balm and Lemongrass?
Different families. Lemon Balm is in the mint family; Lemongrass is in the grass family. Both have lemon-scented leaves but distinct uses and chemistry.

What is "Carmelite water"?
A famous 17th-century French lemon balm-based herbal preparation made by Carmelite nuns.

Is Lemon Balm safe for children?
Generally yes; one of the gentler herbs for children's use.

Does Lemon Balm tea help with sleep?
Traditional use is as a gentle evening tea for relaxation; pairs well with stronger sleep herbs.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.