Wondering what to do with lemon balm? You’re not the only one curious! This bright, lemony herb is surprisingly versatile, and whether fresh or dried, it’s a must-have for both your kitchen and apothecary shelf.
What Is Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)?
Fragrant lemon balm is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). It's native to Eurasia but is now grown worldwide. It’s a perennial herb valued for its citrusy aroma, used to flavor food and make medicine.
Thanks to its natural compounds and antioxidant content, lemon balm is considered a “calming herb” and may help ease pain and discomfort from indigestion, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote sleep, among other health benefits.
Additionally, its soft, crinkled leaves attract pollinators and beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, making it a good addition to your herb garden. You can also find fresh or dried leaves in herbal shops, specialty health stores, or your local farmers’ markets.
Using Dried Lemon Balm Leaves
If you have a big bunch of fresh leaves on hand, consider drying them! This will extend their shelf life and give you a year-round supply of this herb. Here are the ways to use lemon balm leaves that have been dried:
- Lemon Balm Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves in hot water for a couple of minutes. You can sweeten it with honey or pair it with other herbs like peppermint, lemon verbena, or chamomile for a calming bedtime tea.
- DIY Bath Soaks: To make your bath relaxing, put dried leaves in tea infusers, muslin bags, or stockings, and then drop them into a warm bath.
- Natural Air Freshener: Combine the leaves with dried lavender and/or dried rose petals in a cloth sachet, then tuck it in cabinets, drawers, or under your pillowcase.
- Infused Oil: Create an infusion using dried leaves and a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil. You can then use it on its own as a skin moisturizer or massage oil, or add it to DIY balms and salves.
- Lemon Balm Tincture: Steep dried leaves in alcohol (like vodka) for several weeks. Afterward, you can add several drops to a glass of water and drink it when you’re feeling anxious or stressed, or rub the tincture on insect bites to help soothe them.
Using Fresh Lemon Balm Leaves
When fresh, these leaves are bursting with flavor, color, and aroma! Here are a few ways to use them in your home:
- Salad Ingredient or Garnish: Toss them into fresh green salads to give them a lovely citrus twist. You can also use the leaves as a garnish for sweet and savory dishes to add a pop of color before serving.
- Tea: Similar to dried leaves, you can also use the fresh herb to make a soothing beverage.
- Lemon Balm Syrup: Make a simple syrup using fresh leaves, water, and sugar. You can add lemon juice for a more pronounced citrus taste. Add the syrup to give flavor to cocktails, desserts, and seltzer.
- Herbal Cubes: Chop the leaves and freeze them with water or oil in ice cube trays. Use these frozen cubes when cooking to add subtle lemony notes to your dishes.
- Treatment for Cold Sores: Steep the fresh leaves in hot water, then use cotton balls to apply the tea to the affected area throughout the day.
- Natural Insect Repellent: Crush the leaves and apply them directly to your skin.
Things To Consider
While generally safe, you should exercise caution, especially if you’re trying this herb for the first time. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Side Effects: Using lemon balm may have adverse effects, such as dizziness, wheezing, or skin irritations if used topically.
- Drug Interactions: Using lemon balm may interfere with medications.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid using lemon balm when you’re breastfeeding or pregnant, as there is limited information available on its safety.
- Check with Your Healthcare Provider: If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult your doctor before making lemon balm leaves a part of your daily health routine!
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