Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)

The joyful herb — anxiety, mood, digestion, and sleep gently lifted by this lemon-scented Mediterranean classic.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been called the “gladdening herb” since ancient Greece, where it was planted near beehives for its sweet nectar and prescribed by Paracelsus and Avicenna alike for lifting the spirits. Its rosmarinic acid and flavonoids inhibit GABA breakdown in the brain, producing a gentle, lasting calm that elevates mood without sedation — making it one of the most pleasant and versatile nervine herbs in herbalism.

Key Benefits
Anxiety & mood lifting · Gentle sleep support · Digestive calming · Antiviral (cold sores) · Focus & cognitive clarity · Thyroid calming (Graves’ disease support)

How to Use
Steep 1–2 tsp dried lemon balm in 250ml hot water for 5–10 mins. Drink 2–3 cups daily. Bright, lemon-citrus flavour — one of the most pleasant herbal teas available. Best used fresh or recently dried. Pairs beautifully with chamomile, lavender, or passionflower.

When to Expect Results
Mood & anxiety lift: within 30–60 mins · Sleep improvement: 3–7 days · Digestive & thyroid calming: 2–4 weeks of consistent use.

Who It's For
• Anxiety, low mood & nervous tension
• Mild insomnia & restless sleep
• Digestive stress & IBS
• Cold sore outbreaks (topical or internal)
• Overactive thyroid support (Graves’ disease)

Who Should Avoid
• Hypothyroidism — may suppress thyroid activity; consult GP
• On thyroid medication — consult GP
• On sedatives or anti-anxiety medication — may enhance effects
• Pregnant — generally considered safe in culinary amounts; avoid therapeutic doses

Storage
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 6–12 months — volatile oils and potency fade faster than most herbs.

Organically grown · Third-party tested · Free from pesticides & contaminants.