When nature extends its bounty to us, it would be a shame not to seize the opportunity. This June, lemon balm —also known as common balm , honeysuckle , or French tea —unleashes its full power, both in the garden and as an infusion. A medicinal plant with a thousand virtues , it promotes relaxation , digestive well-being , and peaceful sleep . Let's discover this jewel of nature together.
Lemon balm: a plant with the scent of history and tradition
An age-old ally for health
Introduced to Spain in the 7th century by the Arabs, lemon balm lives up to its name: melissa , in Greek, means "bee leaf" . Wherever it grows, bees readily visit, attracted by its sweet lemony scent with notes of mint and lemon .
For centuries, lemon balm has been a trusted remedy: Avicenna , the famous 11th-century physician, already said of it that "it has the admirable property of gladdening and comforting the heart." It is also found in the illustrious Carmelite Water , developed in the 17th century by the Carmelites, to soothe fainting spells and calm nerves.
The benefits of lemon balm: digestion, stress and sleep
Lemon balm for digestion: an ally against digestive problems
Lemon balm is a champion for stomach ailments: it soothes bloating , intestinal spasms , slow digestion , and even relieves nausea . It is often combined with peppermint and fennel to support digestion and protect the stomach.
A natural remedy for stress and anxiety
From a nervous system perspective, lemon balm is invaluable: it soothes stress , calms anxiety , reduces nervous palpitations , and promotes restful sleep . It's the plant that relaxes both our brains: the one in our head and the one in our gut.
It is also useful in cases of digestive or nervous migraines , dizziness , headaches and even menstrual pain .
Lemon balm and sleep: a soothing plant for the whole family
Lemon balm is so gentle that it is also suitable for children . A lemon balm infusion (sometimes combined with chamomile and fennel ) aids digestion , soothes before bedtime, and can even prevent nightmares .
For adults, a relaxing bath with lemon balm , lavender and chamomile flowers is a true moment of relaxation after a long day.
How to use lemon balm on a daily basis?
Simple and effective ideas
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As an infusion : alone or combined with other plants such as linden , hawthorn , bitter orange (to relax) or fennel and peppermint (to aid digestion).
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In the kitchen : a few fresh lemon balm leaves in a salad , smoothie or dessert add a delicious lemony note.
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For external use : as a decoction applied in compresses to soothe nerve pain or minor shocks .
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In a relaxing bath : for a cocooning effect that is good for the body and mind.
Precautions for use
Lemon balm is a gentle herb and generally well-tolerated. However, it can affect the thyroid and is not recommended for those with hyperthyroidism . If this applies to you, consult a healthcare professional before using it regularly.
Sources:
- Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide
- I make my own healing herbal teas – Caroline Gayet and Dr. Patrick Aubé
- Plants & Health – Article “Lemon balm, a powerful antioxidant”
- Guide to Medicinal Plants – Dr. G. Pamplona-Roger
- My Herbalism Bible – Michel Pierre and Caroline Gayet
- Herbalism, A Practical Manual of Health Through Plants – Patrice de Bonneval
Under no circumstances should the information and advice offered on the MerveilleNature website be considered a substitute for a consultation or diagnosis by a doctor or healthcare professional, who are the only ones qualified to properly assess your health.
