What are the main uses of lemon balm?
Written by
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Lemon balm has wonderful versatility, and is much more than just a garden herb. This member of the mint family has a lemon scent, adding gentle notes of citrus to many aspects of daily life. This is another herb that has found its way to my kitchen and apothecary for many years of happy use. You will see that it adds flavour to dishes, promotes health and comfort, and is used extensively in natural remedies.
Lemon balm brings a brilliant flavor to culinary uses without overpowering a dish. For its oils are delicate, and I prefer fresh leaves added at the last moment. Use in salads, fish preparations, or in honey preparations. The very mild citrus flavor blends well with berries and light meats, which is important from a culinary perspective, as heat quickly dissipates its delicate essence.
Culinary Creativity
- Flavor teas, lemonades, and infused waters
- Enhance salads, dressings, and marinades
- Create herb butters for fish and poultry
- Make frozen herb cubes for cooking
Wellness Support
- Promote relaxation through GABA pathways
- Support healthy sleep patterns naturally
- Ease digestive discomfort after meals
- Reduce occasional stress and tension
Natural Remedies
- Soothe skin irritations like insect bites
- Apply diluted oil for cold sore relief
- Create calming bath soaks before bedtime
- Use in compresses for minor inflammation
To preserve its attributes for off-season use, proper preservation of lemon balm is important. I dry all the bundles upside down in a dark place. When frozen with chopped leaves in oil, it maintains its fresh flavor. Different sets of processes fulfill various needs. Label all containers with the date for the best results.
When it comes to the medicinal use of lemon balm, safety is key. I always recommend consulting with your healthcare provider first. Some medications, such as thyroid hormone replacement therapy, require regular monitoring. Start with small amounts to see if they are tolerated. Additionally, store herbal preparations properly for safety and other considerations.
Gradually incorporate lemon balm into your routine. A simple tea before bed is a good first step. Then try adding lemon balm leaves to an evening salad. You can also create infused oil to use in your skin care regimen. There are many uses for this versatile herb. Find what works best for you.
Read the full article: 10 Lemon Balm Uses: More Than You Knew!
