Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Scent Note:
Heart/Middle Note
Scent Profile:
Light, sweet, and fresh & green citrus scent with herbaceous and minty undertones. Its aroma is soothing and uplifting, making it a favorite for promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Blend Well With:
Lavender, Geranium, Chamomile, Citrus Oils (Lemon, Orange), Frankincense, Rose
❇️ Healing Properties
Lemon Balm essential oil is well-known for its calming, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce anxiety, uplift mood, and ease nervous tension. It also has a reputation for supporting the immune system, alleviating headaches, and aiding digestion. The oil is often used to soothe skin irritations, rashes, and minor wounds due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
📜 Historical & Practical Uses
The leaves and flowers of the lemon balm plant are used to make essential oils. Lemon Balm has been revered for its calming and healing properties for centuries, playing a prominent role in traditional medicine, culinary practices, and folklore across various cultures.
Ancient Greece & Rome: Lemon Balm has been used for over 2,000 years. In ancient Greece, it was prescribed by the physician Dioscorides to treat nervous disorders, digestive issues, and fevers. The Romans used it to lift the spirits and promote emotional well-being.
Middle Ages: During the medieval period, Lemon Balm was a popular ingredient in tonics and elixirs for longevity, stress relief, and improving sleep. It was also used to treat wounds and bites, as it was believed to have strong healing properties.
Traditional European Herbalism: Lemon Balm was often steeped in wine to create an uplifting drink that eased tension and promoted relaxation. Herbalists recommended it to soothe nervousness, anxiety, and headaches.
Culinary & Medicinal Uses: Throughout Europe, Lemon Balm leaves were used to flavor beverages, soups, and salads. Its medicinal uses ranged from calming upset stomachs to reducing fever. Lemon Balm tea became popular as a natural remedy for insomnia, anxiety, and indigestion.
Aromatherapy & Modern Uses: In modern aromatherapy, Lemon Balm essential oil is widely used to reduce stress, calm the mind, and support restful sleep. It is also used in topical applications for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it ideal for treating cold sores, eczema, and insect bites.
🔮 Energy Levels
Energy & Chakras
Lemon Balm is associated with the Heart Chakra, promoting emotional balance, compassion, and a sense of calm. It helps to restore harmony and peace within the body and mind.
Emotional & Spiritual Connection
Lemon Balm is associated with the Heart Chakra, promoting emotional balance, compassion, and a sense of calm. It helps to restore harmony and peace within the body and mind.
Mystical Stories
In ancient times, Lemon Balm was considered a sacred herb dedicated to the goddess Diana. It was believed to attract love, and medieval beekeepers rubbed it on hives to keep bees happy. In folklore, Lemon Balm was said to bring harmony to the heart and mind, and was used in spells to promote healing and happiness.
🔬 Chemistry
Lemon Balm essential oil contains key compounds such as citral, citronellal, and geraniol, which contribute to its calming and antiviral properties. It also contains terpenes, which are plant chemicals that may contribute to the herb's relaxing and antiviral effects. These components also make it effective in soothing the skin and easing respiratory conditions.
⛑️ Safety
Lemon Balm oil is gentle but should be diluted before topical use. It is generally considered safe for most people, though it is recommended to do a patch test before applying to sensitive skin. Avoid using Lemon Balm oil during pregnancy or for those with thyroid conditions, as it can affect thyroid hormone levels.