Lemon Balm 4:1

Botanical: Melissa officinalis

Family: Lamiaceae (mint)

Other common names: Melissa, Balm, Balm Mint, Bee Balm, Blue Balm, Cure-all, Dropsy Plant, Garden Balm, Sweet Balm, Heart's Delight, Honey Plant

Lemon Balm is said to have the ability to heal wounds, ease indigestion, relieve menstrual cramps, fight cold sores (herpes simplex), relax nerves, soothe minor wounds and insect stings, help prevent sleeplessness and even repel mosquitoes.  This is a safe herb for children, and it tastes very good.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
The genus, Melissa, is widely diffused, having representatives in Europe, Middle Asia and North America, and the name is derived from the Greek word signifying "bee," indicative of the attraction the flowers have for those insects.  The English word, Balm, is thought to be an abbreviated form of "balsam," the chief of sweet-smelling oils.  This herb was highly esteemed by Paracelsus, who believed it would completely revivify a man.  Lemon Balm had been used for centuries, having early references found in Roman writings and was sacred in the temple of Diana.  The Arabs relied on this plant to treat depression and anxiety, while the English included it in furniture polish.  And there are references to Balm as an "aid to longevity" as noted by John Evelyn, a seventeenth century diarist.  Lemon Balm is an excellent carminative herb that relieves spasms in the digestive tract, and is used in cases of flatulent dyspepsia.  Because of its mild antidepressive properties, the herb is primarily indicated where there is dyspepsia associated with anxiety or depression, as the gently sedative oils relieve tension and stress reactions, thus acting to lighten the symptoms of depression.  Primary chemical constituents of this herb include essential oil (citral, linalool, eugenol, citronellal, geraniol), tannins, bitter principle, resin, tannins, polyphenols, flavonoids, succinic acid and rosmarinic acid.  The volatile oils appear to act on the interface between the digestive tract and nervous system.  It has been described by some herbalists as being restorative to the nervous system, similar in some ways to Oats. It may be used in conditions of migraine that are associated with tension, neuralgia, anxiety induced palpitations and/or insomnia.  Lemon Balm is believed to have a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system, causing mild vasodilation of the peripheral vessels, thus acting to lower blood pressure.  It can be used in feverish conditions, such as influenza.  Hot water extracts are said to have antiviral properties, possibly due in part to rosmarinic acid and other polyphenolics constituents.  A lotion-based extract may be used for skin lesions of herpes simplex, the antiviral activity having been confirmed in both laboratory and clinical trial.  It is also thought to inhibit the receptor binding and biological activity of immunoglobulins in the blood of patients with Graves disease, a condition which results in hyperthyroidism, and it may help relieve this condition. German studies show that the essential oil of Lemon Balm acts upon the part of the brain governing the autonomic nervous system and protects the cerbrum from excessive external stimuli. 

Recommended Dosage:
Take three (3) capsules, two (2) to three (3) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Lemon Balm is mild, gentle and safe for children.  It is wise, however, not to take it concurrently with barbiturates for insomnia or anxiety, as it may increase their effects. With regard to the Essential Oil (only) of Lemon Balm, persons with glaucoma should avoid it, as animal studies show that it may raise the pressure in the eye.

Capsule Information:
Our Lemon Balm supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.