Lemon Balm Plant

London Dispensary said in 1696 that 'Balm given every morning, will renew youth, strengthen the brain and relieve languishing nature.'

Strong, square stems with a lovely lemon smell.

It is said to help slow down and possibly relieve the onset of Alzheimer disease; five leaves in hot water is claimed to be a memory restorative and gives a sense of well being for those suffering from stress!

• Hardy perennial.
• Prefers light shade.
• Likes any moist fertile soil.
• Grows to 12 - 32" (30 - 80 cm) tall.
• Yellow flowers that grow in clusters.
• Invasive herb (so we would recommend you grow in a pot).
• It is recommended that you cut the plants back once they have flowered.

• Culinary Uses.
• Good for being chopped into white sauces to accompany fish.
• Can be added to fruit salads, jellies or fruit drinks.
• Infuse leaves for melissa tea or float in Indian tea.
• Goes well with Tarragon.
• Lemon balm is the main ingredient in Chartreuse!

• Medicinal Uses.
• Fresh leaves can help with insect bites or sores.
• Can be made into tea to relieve chronic bronchial catarrh, feverish colds and headaches.
• Can be use to calm and uplift tensions.
• Said to be effective for an over active thyroid.
• Said to be effective for insomnia and unsettling dreams.
• Can ease morning sickness and be useful during menopause (as it can relieve hot flushes).
• Said to ease gout.
• Can help prevent coldsores.

• Other Uses.
• Often used in invalid posies.
• Bees love it - works well planted around beehives!
• Can be use as a rinse for greasy hair!
• Used in pot pourri or herb pillows.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.