Also known as
Bee balm • Cure-all • Dropsy plant • Honey plant • Melissa officinalis • Sweet balm • Sweet Mary.
NATIVE TO
Native to South Asia • Middle East • Parts of North Africa
ORIGINS & USES
- Native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia, lemon balm has long been used in traditional herbal medicine to support calm, digestion, and mental clarity
- Used as a nervine to ease stress, nervous tension, and emotional overwhelm, while promoting relaxation and balance
- Used for its antiviral properties, particularly in supporting the body during viral infections affecting the skin and nervous system
- Prepared as a tea, infusion, or tonic
RESEARCH
- Studies suggest lemon balm contains compounds with calming, antioxidant, and antiviral activity
- Research indicates lemon balm may help inhibit the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) associated with cold sores, particularly in topical applications
- Frequently studied for its role in nervous system support, stress response, and digestive comfort, both alone and in traditional formulations
NOTES
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Generally well tolerated when used as directed; excessive intake may cause mild digestive upset

