Melissa officinalis Taste: Sour, sweet, strong lemon flavour. Origin: Europe Energetics: Cooling, drying Actions and properties: Relaxing diaphoretic, sedative, antiviral, antispasmodic, anti-oxidant, aromatic digestant. Systems: Digestive system, circulatory system, respiratory system, reproductive system. Traditionally used for: Nervousness, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia Spasms in the upper respiratory centres, convulsive coughing, asthma Anxiety and heart palpitations; hyperthyroidism Rapid Pulse Upset stomach, flatulence, nervous indigestion Colds, fevers deficient and painful menstruation, leucorrhea, menopause hot flashes Male impotence Brewing instructions: 1-2 tsp of herb per cup of water Boiling water (200-212f/93-100C) Steep for 5-15 minutes Contraindications/cautions: Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid if you have an under active thyroid, unless first speaking to a healthcare practitioner. Stop using 2 weeks before scheduled surgery. Not recommended for long tern use (4-6 weeks max). May cause drowsiness. Always consult a healthcare practitioner when consuming any new herb. Like all herb it is best to start with a little to make sure you are not intolerant. Warning: This information has not been verified by Health Canada and should be considered for historical and educational purposes only. Other uses: Mosquito repellent.
