Medicinal plant
Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
For nervous tension and a tense stomach.
A nervine traditionally used for nervous tension and mild restlessness, and a carminative for digestive discomfort tied to tension, gas, and bloating. Aromatic and gently relaxing.
Properties
Nervine — Supports, nourishes, or calms the nervous system
Carminative — Helps relieve gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort
Antispasmodic — Helps relax cramps, spasms, or tight muscles
Energetics
Cooling Relaxing Calming
Growing and using it
Life cycle
Hardy perennial.
What to buy
Common lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) seed or a straight-species potted plant.
Best way to start
Seed or nursery plant.
Seed starting
Start indoors about 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow after frost. Sow shallowly; light helps germination.