1. What is Lemon balm leaves ?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.), a member of Laminaceae, is a perennial plant growing up to 100 cm. This species originates from southern Europe, Asia Minor and southern parts of North America. Lemon balm populations are distributed in all Mediterranean countries including the coastal regions of Turkey and northern Iran.

The name Melissa is derived from a Greek word meaning bee, owing to the abundance of nectar in the flowers which attracts bees.

2. What are the clinical implication of Lemon balm leaves ?

The extract is mainly used as a sedative, an anti-flatulence agent and symptomatic treatment of digestive disorders such as spasms.

It is also used for several purposes such as an additive in food, a herb tea, an ingredient in cosmetics, an ornamental and a medicines.

In medicine, it has anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, antimicrobial, antihistaminic, antispasmodic and antioxidant, antiviral effects, modulation of mood and cognitive performance.