The Exploration of Lemon Balm's Benefits and Uses
Lemon balm, that minty-smelling shrub, ain't just a pretty face. Rub its leaves, and you'll get a whiff of lemons instead of mint. This herb has been used since centuries by herbalists for treating various issues.
Now, let's talk about drinks and pills containing lemon balm. People take it in capsules, brew it into tea, or apply the essential oil to their skin. Dr. Manjaree Daw, an internal medicine physician, shares insights on its potential benefits and safe usage.
What's the deal with Lemon Balm?
Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, originally hails from the Mediterranean basin, Europe, and Central Asia. Today, you can find it growing worldwide.
"A lot of herbal products contain lemon balm," says Dr. Daw. "People use it in capsules, tea, or apply the diluted essential oil to their skin."
Benefits of Lemon Balm
- Tummy Troubles: If you're feeling bloated or your gut ain't happy, lemon balm could be a helpful remedy. Some research suggests that it can help calm spasms or colic in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract, easing minor tummy woes.
- Focus: Got a brain fog? Put down the coffee and try some lemon balm instead. A small study found that it might improve mood and cognitive ability.
- Anxiety Relief: Lemon balm is known for combating stress and anxiety. A lab study reports that it boosts GABA, a neurotransmitter known for its calming effect.
- Depression Support: While it's not a depression cure, it might help with mild symptoms.
- Cold Sores Treatment: Lemon balm has antiviral activity that can inhibit the Herpes simplex virus.
- Sleep Aid: A study suggests that its anti-anxiety effects help sleep.
Safe Usage of Lemon Balm
If you take pills or capsules with lemon balm, follow the package directions. With lemon balm tea, one or two cups per day is likely safe. Always stick to the recommended dose and consult a physician if you have health conditions or take medications.
Long-term use safety isn't clear. If your health issue persists for a week or two, stop taking the herb and consult a physician. Some people may experience side effects like headache, dizziness, or an upset stomach. Always talk to a healthcare practitioner before taking any supplements.
If you apply the essential oil to your skin, dilute it with a carrier oil like sweet almond or coconut oil to avoid irritation.
Herbs can be as potent as medications, so they can cause unwanted side effects. It's best to consult a doctor before taking any supplements to ensure their safety and effectiveness for your individual health needs.
- Science has found that Lemon Balm, or Melissa officinalis, can help address various health issues, such as tummy troubles, anxiety relief, cold sores treatment, depression support, and even sleep aid.
- In terms of food and beverages, lemon balm can be taken in capsules, brewed into tea, or its diluted essential oil can be applied to the skin for topical use.
- When it comes to mental health, lemon balm has been observed to boost GABA, a neurotransmitter known for its calming effect, potentially helping with stress and anxiety.
- As with all health supplements and herbs, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult a physician if you have health conditions or are taking medications to ensure the safe and effective use of Lemon Balm and to avoid potential side effects like headache, dizziness, or an upset stomach.
