Balm leaves, known by its botanical name, Melissa officinalis, is also commonly referred to as Lemon Balm, Sweet Balm, Lemon Balsam, Bee Balm and Melissa.

 

 

Balm is a shortened form of the word Balsam, deriving from Latin balsamum “balsam tree”, which was also used for the resin obtained from it. The Latin species name melissa is shortened from Classical Greek melisso-phyllon.

 

Early use of the leaf were for its calming effects to relieve stress and anxiety, improve Sleep or appetite or to ease pain or discomfort associated with digestive problems. At one time a spirit of balm leaves, combined with Lemon peel, nutmeg and angelica root, under the name Carmelite Water, was used to treat nervous headaches and neuralgic afflictions. Before and during the Middle Ages, balm leaves steeped in wine were used to lift the spirits, help to heal wounds and treat insect bites and stings. In modern times, balm leaves are often steeped in water with other calming herbs to help relax.

 

Although few studies have been done to investigate its safety and effectiveness alone, balm leaves, when combined with other herbs like valerian, have been shown to promote Sleep and reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that individuals with Sleep disorders reported sleeping much better after having ingested balm leaves and valerian.

 

Studies have suggested that balm leaves, when used in a topical ointment, help to heal lip sores from Herpes simplex. When applied to the sores, balm leaves were reported to significantly reduce redness and swelling. Animal studies seem to support its use as a topical treatment for Herpes lesions.

 

Many proponents of balm leaves claim the herb is beneficial for many ailments including Alzheimer's disease, Attention Deficit disorder, hyperthyroidism, indigestion and insomnia. Laboratory studies have indicated that balm leaves have antioxidants properties as well as anti-HIV properties, but further studies are needed.

 

Lemon balm's leaves were found to contain substances that inhibit protein biosynthesis in Cancer cells. Caffeic Acid and a glycoside isolated from the leaves were responsible for this anti-tumor activity.

 

In animal models, lyophilized extracts of balm leaves have shown antithyrotropic effects. Unidentified components of lemon balm have the ability to bind to thyroid stimulating hormone and render it incapable of binding to its receptors in Immunoglobulins obtained from nine patients with Graves' disease.

 

Until more clinical studies are performed on this herb, it should be used with caution. A study warned that herbs in general (including lemon balm) contain higher amounts of lead than vegetables, cereals, or fruits. The potential antithyrotropic activity of lemon balm also raises serious concerns. This effect of lemon balm is perhaps most serious in patients with hypothyroid disease. In fact, hypothyroid disease is probably a direct contraindication to its use. The potential Sleep-inducing and sedative properties of lemon balm may have serious consequences in patients who operate machinery or drive a motor vehicle.

 

In addition to its medicinal properties , balm leaves have been used for centuries to flavor sweet drinks and as a spice and garnish for many dishes, most preferably fish dishes.

 

 

Though native to Europe, balm leaves are grown all over the world. It is grown in herb gardens and is cultivated for medicines, cosmetics and furniture polishing products. Growing up to two feet in height, it is grown easily in any soil and can be propagated by seed, cutting or by division of root. In the spring and summer clusters of small yellow flowers grow between the deeply wrinkled leaves. These leaves range from yellowish green to dark green in color. Similar in shape to mint leaves, they give off a sweet lemony fragrance when bruised. The leaves also have a strong lemony flavor.

 

 

Balm leaves contain plant chemicals called terpenes which seem to play a role in the herb's relaxing properties. Preparations are made from the leaves of the plant, often as a Tea, by boiling 1 pint of water on 1 ounce of herb.

 

Balm leaves also contain tannins, which are though to create some of the plant's antiviral properties. Balm leaves also contain eugenol which has a calming effect on Muscle spasms, helps to numb tissue and also kills Bacteria.

 

Balm leaves are available as a Tea and as an extract. It is also available as a Tincture and an oil in addition to a dried leaf which can be purchased in bulk. Creams made from the leaf and containing large amounts of balm leaf extract are available in Europe. The oils, Tincture and Tea forms can be applied directly to the problem area with cotton balls.

 

 

For children, balm leaves can be used topically to treat Cold Sores in much the same way as adults. If taken internally, as in a Tea, adjust the dosage according to weight. Generally, an adult dose is based on a weight of 150 lbs. If a child weighs 50 lbs, then the dosage is reduced to a third.

 

For adults with Cold Sores or herpes sores, 2 teaspoons of leaves steeped in 1 cup boiling water will produce a Tea which can be applied to the sore with cotton balls as needed. As a Tincture, 2 to 3 millileters taken 3 times daily can be used to treat sleeplessness, reduce stomach complaints, flatulence or Bloating. The Tea can be used for the same complaints.

 

 

The use of herbal treatments, though a time-honored practice, should be taken under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner. Herbs can contain active substances which can trigger side effects or interact with other herbs or medicines.

 

There are no symptoms or side effects associated with the use of balm leaves. There do not appear to be any symptoms of toxicity either. This herb is not to be used by pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding.

 

 

Balm leaves may interfere with certain sedatives and thyroid medications, although this has not been demonstrated in clinical testing. Consult your physician before taking balm leaves if you are on any medication for thyroid problems or if you are taking medication for anxiety or Sleep disorders.