Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm)

Melissa officinalis, also known as Lemon Balm, is a perennial herb widely cultivated for its fragrant lemon-scented leaves.

What is Lemon Balm?

• Lemon Balm is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, along with basil, rosemary, sage, oregano, thyme, and lavender.
   
• Native to south-central Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, Iran, and Central Asia, Lemon Balm is a bushy perennial with lemon-scented, wrinkled, ovate leaves, 3 inches long (7 cm), born in pairs on square stems. In summer, tiny, creamy-white or pale purple flowers appear in the leaf axils.
   
• The plant grows 18-24 inches tall (45-60 cm) and 18-36 inches wide (45-90 cm).
   
• The plant has a long history of medicinal use dating back to ancient Greece. It is also used as a flavoring ingredient in food and drink.
   
• Lemon Balm is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, wildlife gardens, herb gardens, vegetable gardens, and cottage gardens.
   
• This plant is a vigorous grower. It can spread rapidly, vegetatively, and by seed and become a nuisance.

Lemon Balm Culinary Uses

Lemon Balm is a popular herb with a lemon-like flavor, commonly used in cooking. Some common culinary uses include:

1. Teas: The leaves can be used to make a refreshing tea that is often enjoyed for its calming effect.
2. Sauces: The leaves can be used in sauces and marinades to add a lemon-like flavor to dishes such as chicken, fish, and vegetables.
3. Baked goods: The leaves can be added to baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and bread to enhance the flavor.
4. Salad dressing: The leaves can be added to salad dressings to create a fresh, citrusy flavor.
5. Cocktails: The leaves can be muddled or used as a garnish in cocktails to add a lemon-like flavor.

These are just a few examples of the many culinary uses for lemon balm. Its versatility and unique flavor make it a popular herb in the kitchen.

Lemon Balm Medicinal Uses

Lemon Balm has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have various medicinal properties. Some of the most common benefits include:

1. Anxiety and Stress relief: Lemon balm has a calming effect and has been traditionally used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
2. Improving Sleep: The plant has been used as a sleep aid, as it has a calming effect that can help promote sleep.
3. Digestive Issues: Lemon balm has been used to treat digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and flatulence.
4. Cold Sores: The plant has been used to treat herpes simplex virus infections due to its antiviral properties, including cold sores.
5. Improving Cognitive Function: Some studies have suggested that lemon balm may improve cognitive function, reduce mental fatigue and improve memory.

Note: Despite its long history of use, there is limited scientific evidence to support these medicinal uses of Lemon Balm, and further research is needed to confirm its efficacy. Additionally, the plant may interact with some medications and may cause side effects in some people. Consult with a healthcare provider before using it for medicinal purposes.

Growing Lemon Balm

• Grow 18-24 inches tall (45-60 cm) and 18-36 inches wide (45-90 cm).
   
• Performs best in moist, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. Full sun is preferred in cooler climates, while some afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer climates. Avoid wet soils, particularly in winter.
   
• Sow seed indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost date. Transplant seedlings into the garden from early spring to early summer when they are 2-3 inches tall (5-7 cm). Space the plants 24 inches (60 cm) apart. You can also directly sow outdoors in fall or late spring.
   
• Lemon Balm grows quickly and may spread somewhat aggressively. Cut back after flowering to promote a fresh flush of leaves and to prevent self-seeding.
   
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for leafhoppers and powdery mildew. It attracts bees and honeybees but is deer resistant. With regard to mosquito control, there is some evidence to suggest that lemon balm may have insect-repellent properties.
   
• Propagate by seed or division in spring and fall.
   
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.

Harvesting and Storing

1. Cut the leaves when the plant has reached 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in height. You can harvest individual leaves or entire stems as needed.
2. The best time to harvest the leaves is in the morning after the dew has dried and before the sun has become too hot, as this is when the plant’s oil content and aroma are at their highest.
3. You can continue harvesting the leaves throughout the growing season until the first frost.
4. To dry the leaves, you can hang them in a cool, dry place or use a food dehydrator. Once dry, you can store the leaves in an airtight container for later use.

Companion Planting

Lemon Balm can be used as a companion plant in many different garden setups. Here are a few common companion plants:

1. Vegetables: Lemon balm is said to enhance the flavor of many vegetables when planted nearby, including brassicas (such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprout, and cabbage), tomatoes, summer squash, and winter squash.
2. Herbs: Lemon balm pairs well with other herbs such as basil, lavender, mint, sage, and rosemary.
3. Flowers: Lemon balm can also act as a companion plant for flowers, helping to repel pests and attract pollinators. Some good choices include cosmos, poppies, rudbeckia, echinacea, sweet peas, bee balm, chamomile, and borage.

Remember that this plant can be invasive, so it’s important to control its spread by planting it in a pot or designated garden area.