Lemon Balm: The Calming Garden Herb Everyone Should Grow
Lemon balm is a calming mint-family herb often used for stress, sleep, mood, and digestion.
2/28/20262 min read
Lemon Balm: The Calming Garden Herb Everyone Should Grow
One of my favorite summer moments is stepping out onto my deck and catching the fresh lemony scent drifting from my lemon balm plant.
It’s one of those herbs that instantly feels peaceful.
I fell in love with it after trying it in tea, and now it’s a staple in my Blissful Night relaxing blend. At this point, lemon balm has earned a permanent space in my garden — and this year it’s getting an even bigger one.
What is Lemon Balm?
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) — which explains why it grows vigorously and comes back faithfully each year.
The leaves are the medicinal part of the plant. Traditionally, lemon balm is known as a gentle herb that supports the nervous system, helping the body relax while also lifting mood.
Herbal Actions
Lemon balm is considered:
Antiviral
Relaxing nervine
Mild mood-supporting herb
Antispasmodic
Mildly sedating
Diaphoretic (supports healthy fever response)
Antimicrobial
Carminative (digestive soothing)
Common Uses
People often reach for lemon balm when they need calm support for everyday stress.
It may help:
Promote restful sleep
Ease occasional anxiety or tension
Gently lift mood
Soothe an upset stomach
Comfort minor skin irritations (bug bites, scrapes, stings)
Support the body during viral challenges such as cold sores, influenza, shingles, etc.
Some research has also explored its calming effects in individuals experiencing agitation related to cognitive decline.
Ways to Use Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is incredibly versatile and beginner-friendly.
You can prepare it as:
Tea (my favorite) – Fresh or dried leaves steeped in hot water
Tincture – Long-term nervous system support
Oil Infusion – For lotions, balms, and salve
Essential Oil – Aromatic use only (proper dilution required)
Safety Notes
May interact with thyroid conditions or medications
Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare professional
Do not ingest essential oil
Always dilute essential oil before applying to skin
Lemon balm is more than just a pretty green plant — it’s a gentle daily ally for calm, comfort, and simple herbal care at home.
Sometimes healing really does begin one plant at a time.
Courtney
— Just Nurse Court
Disclaimer
This information is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any herbal protocol.
References
Balch, Phyllis A., and James F. Balch. Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Avery Publishing, 1990.
Blumenthal, Mark, et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council; Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998.
Chevallier, Andrew. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. 4th ed., DK Publishing, 2023.
Duke, James A. The Green Pharmacy: New Discoveries in Herbal Remedies for Common Diseases and Conditions from the World’s Foremost Authority on Healing Herbs. Rodale Press, 1997.
Hoffmann, David. Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press, 2010.
Richardson, Kaylee. The Beekeeper’s Apothecary: A Foundational Guide for Becoming Your Own Herbalist. Homestead Living, 2025.