Did you know this about Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm is a wonderful herb with culinary and medicinal uses. As a culinary herb, the fresh leaves can be used as an attractive garnish or they can be chopped and used as a citrus flavoring in salads, soups, dressings or anywhere in place of lemon zest. The leaves can be used to infuse oils or vinegars or the leaves can be dried or frozen for later use.

Medicinally; lemon balm is considered an uplifting, calming herb. It acts as a mild sedative and helps to relax the body. It is antispasmodic and can be helpful in treating stress, menstrual cramping, mild depression, hypertension and nervous headaches. Lemon balm has anti-histamine actions and can be applied topically for insect bites, wounds and eczema. Lemon balm has been shown to be anti-viral and can be useful during cold and flu season; it can help heal cold sores, throat infections, respiratory infections, fevers, dysentery, Epstein Barr, chronic fatigue and shingles. Lemon balm can lower TSH levels and has been used to treat hyperthyroidism and Graves’s disease. It has long been known as the longevity herb and some say that it can relieve Alzheimer’s disease.

What a wonderful herb to have growing in the garden!

...and it make the most refreshing tea on a hot summer day! Just add about 1 cup of fresh lemon balm leaves to 4 cups of boiling water. Cover the pot, turn off the heat and let it steep for at least 15 minutes (covered). Enjoy the tea hot or pour over ice for a cool, refreshing drink.