Lemon balm is a member of the mint family. It has a mild lemon scent and flavor, Lemon balm has historically been valued as a culinary herb, a cosmetic and medicinal herb. Fresh lemon balm leaves are often used to top drinks and garnish salads and main dishes while the dried leaves have been frequently used for teas. Throughout history as a medicinal herb, lemon balm has been used as a mild sedative and as a digestive aid to relieve gas, and is also well known for its use with fevers and to increase perspiration. TRADITIONAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF LEMON BALM Brain & Cognitive Support, Digestive Support, Immune Support, Stress Support, Sleep Support. LatinMelissa officinalisFamily: Lamiaceae DifficultyEasy Season & ZoneSeason: Cool seasonExposure: Sun or part-shadeZone: Hardy from zone 5 and above. GrowingChoose a shady spot or a location where plants can be protected from midday sun. Lemon balm prefers a fertile, moist soil in a cooler part of the garden. Plants grown in partial shade will be larger and more succulent than those exposed to full sun. HarvestPick leaves throughout the summer for fresh use. The aroma is rapidly lost when dried or stored.
