Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae. It’s true that it’s not a citrus plant. Don’t let the word lemon cause confusion. It’s definitely a mint.
The mint family of herbs includes spearmint, peppermint, lemon balm, basil and rosemary among other. Mints are all known for aiding in numerous stomach ailments, such as acid reflux and heartburn, difficulty digesting proteins and fats, colic, flatulence, cramping, bloating, gastritis and irritable bowel disease. Lemon balm is no exception.
Lemon balm contains active herbal ingredients that act as an antispasmodic. Antispasmodics are used to relax smooth muscle tissues in the body. Our stomach is made up of smooth muscles, and by drinking lemon balm tea it relaxes the spasms caused by gas or other stomach upset.
Lemon Balm makes a wonderful lemony tasting tea. If you drink it at the first sign of tummy upset, the tea will help relax your belly in about an hour. Use lemon balm for colic, flatulence, irritable bowel disease and gastritis. You can mix it with other herbs such as fennel, calendula, or marshmallow root.
Best Way to Make A Tea
- Heat enough water to make one cup (coffee cup size).
- Place lemon balm herb into tea strainer.
- Pour hot water over herb.
- Place small saucer plate over cup to retain essential oils of the herb in the cup.
- Let steep 10-15 minutes.
- Add honey and stir.
- Sit back, relax and enjoy your delicious lemon balm tea.
It is best to take 3-4 cups per day for 2 weeks to allow the lemon balm to take effect.
