Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has an amazing lemon flavor. It is also used in many ways such as medication, for health purposes, to soothe, reduce anxiety, and gently calm. It is native to the Mediterranean and has medicinal and culinary uses that date back over 2,000 years.
Types of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has several varieties that are all used in many ways. Here are the most common ones and their features:
Lemon Balm Type | Features |
Lime |
|
Variegated |
|
Quedlinburger |
|
Lemonella |
|
Aurea |
|
Citronella |
|
Lemon Balm Uses
We often get asked what the uses for Lemon Balm are, and here are our favorite answers:
- Lemon Balm Tea with Honey
- Substitute in cooking for lemon zest, extract, or rind
Regardless of the season, there’s always time to enjoy a healthy and refreshing tea. Without further ado, here’s our Lemon Balm Tea recipe!
It’s All About The Lemon Balm
When you buy commercial lemon balm tea it’s going to come dried, but if you’re able to use fresh lemon balm it’s going to taste way better! If you’ve come to the end of your lemon balm plant's life and have more than you’re able to consume, you can dry it by hanging it upside down in the kitchen or in a low-temp oven.
To learn more about how to grow your own lemon balm indoors, click here.
Lemon Balm Tea Benefits
Here are some benefits of drinking lemon balm tea:
- Reduces anxiety
- Boosts cognitive function
- Treats sleep disorders
- Improves sleep quality
- Treats headache and toothache pains
Lemon Balm Side Effects and Risks
Lemon balm can be beneficial but may also cause side effects or interact with medications. People who should consume with caution include those:
- With thyroid disorders
- Taking sedatives
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
How To Make Lemon Balm Tea
Making lemon balm tea is simple, follow these steps:
- Pick around 1 cup of lemon balm leaves for each cup of tea you’re making.
- Gently roll the leaves into a ball with your hands to release essential oils.
- Place the leaves in your teapot with honey to taste. Add boiling water.
- Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then pour to serve.
Easy, right? Now, where’s my blanky and book?
Other Lemon Balm Recipes and Uses
Lemon balm can be used in many recipes and helps with various health issues such as:
- Indigestion
- Poor cognitive function
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Stress
If you’re interested to know more about the uses and recipes you can make with lemon balm, check this out.
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