In these days when we have access to all sorts of foreign herbs with exotic names and full of potent promises, I always think it is good to acknowledge the medicinal marvels we already have in our fields, hedgerows and often growing unbeknownst and unappreciated in our gardens. Such is the Lemon balm.
I think Lemon balm is one of my favourite herbs, as I have experienced its calming effects myself, I believe that it stills a restless mind, when taken as a tea and aids a restful sleep, when restless thoughts intrude. I love its sharp distinctive aroma when I brush past where it spills over the path whilst I am gardening. A true scent of early summer.
I am not the only one appreciative of its virtues, a herb with ancient pedigree it was valued for its effects on the nervous system its near miraculous attributes were many. These included the ability to revivify a man, to renew youth, strengthen the brain, re-energise a languishing nature and prevent baldness. Pretty impressive and a wonder herb you will admit, if all this were true.
Ancient hyperbole notwithstanding, it seems that many of the old uses centre around the head and the mind. It was thought sovereign for its ability to strengthen the memory and drive away melancholy spirits and for its ability to comfort the heart. As another one of the 'cordial herbs' (see 'rose' blog below) it was thought to have an effect on the heart, which was believed to be the seat of the emotions. It was used for nervous headaches and neuralgic conditions and was also used to dress wounds.
It has many properties acknowledged by modern herbal medicine, many of which reflect its traditional uses. It is used as an antihistamine, a soother for indigestion and topically as an anti-virall. It is still used by medical herbalists where there is nervousness and depression - sometimes with other herbs as part of preparations for menopausal symptoms, where there may be an inclination to weep and where insomnia may be an issue. It is also used by herbalists to help where the thyroid is hyperactive, but it is contra-indicated and should be not be taken in low thyroid states. One for the practitioner only.
It is a difficult herb to dry well, its volatile oils are soon lost (it is one of the more expensive aromatherapy oils for this reason) so unless you are assured of a good quality preparation, it is best used fresh from the garden. A couple of sprigs in a cup boiling water - definitely cover the cup to stop those valuable oils evaporating - sipped when you are feeling a bit low, can't sleep or have a headache, might do the trick. Alternatively cover a good handful of the herb in boiling water, leave to infuse for 15 minutes, strain and add this to your bathwater for a relaxing fragrant soak after a fretful day.
Its Latin name Melissa, is from the Greek for honeybee and it is truly beloved of bees for its tiny sweet white flowers. The 16th Century herbalist Gerard believed the leaves rubbed on a hive would keep the bees together and attract new ones. It was also thought that this helped the bees find their way back home. It was first known as known as the bee plant in its Mediterranean home, before Arab medicine brought it to the attention of European physicians.
Perhaps we should all have a little corner for Lemon balm in a sunny part of our gardens, if not for ourselves, then perhaps for our friends the bees, who need a little help themselves these days.
Sources:
Barker, J. (2001), The medicinal flora of Britain and Northwestern Europe. Kent, Winter Press
Mrs Grieve (1931) A Modern Herbal (available on line at www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/mgmh.htm).
This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable and uncontaminated source.
Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine