Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant from the mint family that has a distinct lemon smell and flavour. The name melissa comes from the Greek for honeybee and officinalis means that it is used medicinally.
Health Benefits
Lemon Balm is said to help with minor gastrointestinal issues including stomach acid, bloating, colic, indigestion and nausea.
Lemon Balm may help to reduce stress, negative moods, anxiety, and sleep problems.
Benefits for the garden
Lemon balm flowers are great for attracting honeybees and other pollinators, while its citronella oil content acts as a repellent for insects that feed on leaves.
How to use it
Fresh or dried lemon balm leaves can be used to flavour food, such as salads, sandwiches, pasta, marinades, sauces, soups, egg dishes, meat dishes, roast chicken, jams, vinegar, and more. It can also used to make desserts and alcoholic drinks.
It has been used as a natural antibiotic and health booster for animals by mixing it in with their feed.
It is also delicious in an herbal tea, and compliments many other herbs in blends.
References
H. Turhan, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Turkey | Handbook of herbs and spices