Lemon Balm: The happiest mint

Have you ever walked through a patch of lemon balm and known that there was something special there? Lemon balm (Melissa Officinalis) makes itself known almost as joyfully and as forcefully as nettle does with its sting. It uplifts and cheers without a stimulant effect. Luckily, it does not sting like its cousin. 

Gen 1: 29 (NIV) “Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.”

Every plant that we have been given has a use. Be it a use for food, medicine, toxin or another. It was created for a reason, and that is beautiful to me. 

Today, let's start here: 

Lemon balm is in the mint family. It is identifiable from its serrated leaves just like nettle or spearmint. The leaves are opposite from each other and the stems are square. It takes over just like mint, which I personally love. But if you don't, keep it contained. 

Before we go too far, please note that this is for educational purposes. Are you allergic or sensitive to plants from the mint family? Don't try the tea.  Make sure you consult a medical professional before changing or adding medications or supplements (Herbs are supplements). This always applies. Make sure you read up on your medications. 

Ok, perfect. Here we go. 

Lemon balm is one of my favorite go to herbs for a more depressed state of mind. The complete experience of smelling a fresh cup of tea and tasting it can lift the spirit significantly. Like any herbal remedy, shoot for consistency. 

Lemon balm also contains antioxidants that are amazing for cellular regeneration. It contains rosemarinic acid, caffeic acid and flavenoids. Let's rest here on rosemarinic acid. A lot of modern research on rosemarinic acid suggests that it plays a part in preventing Alzheimer's development and or progression. 

Lemonbalm is also carminative, meaning it has an effect on the digestive system. It can be really helpful in battling bloating or indigestion after a meal. A practical way to look at this is either taking a cup of lemon balm tea or a few drops of lemon balm tincture after meal time

Now this is my favorite action of lemon balm, not to discount the others by any means at all. But Lemon balm is considered a tropho-restorative, which means that it actually restores the nervous system and helps nourish and heal your nerves. For those times when you feel that your nerves have been exhausted, one of the things you really need is something to restore them and to soothe them. Lemon balm may do just that.

This is my favorite tea right now for a soothing, focusing drink. I carry it with me a lot. 

Lemon balm- Tulsi tea

2pts Tulsi

1pt Lemon balm. 

Steep 2 tsp in a 12 oz jar of hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and enjoy with a good amount of honey (Just my preference, I love honey) 

One of the best ways to enjoy this tea is hot. Breathe in the steam, feel the warm cup in your hands. Sit a moment, wherever you are. 

I also sell this tea on my website at gardensideherbs.com. 

Thanks for hanging out, friends. I hope you have a fantastic rest of your day.