Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm or melissa, is a member of the mint family. The leaves, which emit a fragrant lemony odor when bruised, are used medicinally.
Uses and Benefits:
Lemon balm has traditionally been employed as a mild ,anxiolytic, sedative, or hypnotic herb, and is commonly taken in ,( Hnbination with other herbs. It is also used for mild gastrointestinal dyspepsia or spasms, especially associated with anxiety, and is considered a carminative (helps expel gas from the stomach). Topically, it is promoted for herpes simplex infections and cold sores. Historically, lemon balm steeped in wine was used for wound dressings, to treat venomous bites and stings, and for other topical uses.
Pharmacology:
Important constituents include an essential oil (containing citronellal and other compounds), rosmarinic acid, avonoids, polyphenols, and tannins. The essential oil extract as spasmolytic or relaxant activity on isolated smooth muscles in animal models. Limited studies of hydroalcoholic extracts qiven intraperitoneally or orally to mice have shown sedative-hyp
