Lemon balm: A soothing superfood from the mint family

• Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a perennial herb from the mint family, is native to Eurasia but is now globally naturalized. Known for its mild lemon scent, delicate white flowers and versatile uses, lemon balm has a rich history both as food and medicine.
• Lemon balm has been called “balm mint,” “sweet balm” and “melissa” (Greek for “honeybee”), reflecting its cultural importance. Historically, it was used in tonics like Carmelite water and revered as the “elixir of life” for its vitality-promoting properties.
• Lemon balm offers numerous health benefits, including stress and anxiety relief, improved sleep, digestive support, antiviral effects (especially against herpes simplex virus) and potential cognitive enhancement, particularly for individuals with mild Alzheimer’s disease.
• With its mild, citrusy flavor, lemon balm is a versatile ingredient that can be added to different recipes such as pesto, tea, sorbet, marinades and salads, adding a refreshing twist to both sweet and savory dishes.
• Lemon balm continues to be valued in modern herbalism and naturopathy for its calming, digestive and immune-supporting properties. Its enduring appeal highlights the wisdom of traditional herbal medicine.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a herbaceous plant from the mint family, is a botanical gem with a rich history of medicinal and culinary use. Native to Eurasia but now naturalized across the globe, this herb is cherished for its mild lemon scent, delicate white flowers and natural healing properties.

With a maximum height of one meter, lemon balm is as unassuming as it is powerful, offering a wealth of benefits for both physical and mental well-being. From its role in ancient herbal medicine to its modern applications in teas, tinctures and gourmet dishes, lemon balm is a superfood worth exploring.

Herb with many names

Lemon balm is known by various names that reflect its historical and cultural significance. In addition to its scientific name, Melissa officinalis, it is often referred to as “balm mint,” “sweet balm” or simply “melissa,” a name derived from the Greek word for “honeybee.” This name is a nod to the plant’s ability to attract bees with its nectar-rich flowers.

In medieval Europe, lemon balm was called the “elixir of life” and was a key ingredient in Carmelite water, a tonic believed to promote longevity and vitality. (Related: Lemon balm helps improve gut motility, says research).

Lemon balm is easily recognizable by its bright green, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges. When crushed, the leaves release a refreshing citrus aroma, reminiscent of lemon zest with a hint of mint. The taste is similarly mild and lemony, making it a versat