Lemon Balm Tea

What are the health benefits?

6/29/20251 min read

Lately I have been hearing about the benefits of Lemon Balm Tea. I had never heard of lemon balm before so I thought I would learn a little more and try it for myself.

🌿 What Is Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family with a light, lemony scent and flavor. It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine to calm the mind, aid digestion, and even boost cognitive function.

🌿 1. Reduces Anxiety and Stress

Lemon balm is well-known for its calming properties. Drinking the tea may help:

  • Reduce feelings of nervousness and restlessness

  • Promote relaxation without sedation

  • Improve mood in cases of mild anxiety

😴 2. Promotes Better Sleep

Lemon balm has mild sedative effects that may:

  • Help you fall asleep more easily

  • Improve sleep quality, especially when taken before bed

  • Be especially effective when combined with other calming herbs like chamomile or valerian

🧠 3. Supports Cognitive Function

Some studies suggest lemon balm may:

  • Improve alertness and memory

  • Enhance mental focus while reducing mental fatigue

  • Be beneficial in early research for mild cognitive impairment

💆‍♀️ 4. Eases Digestive Discomfort

Lemon balm tea can:

  • Relieve bloating and gas

  • Calm upset stomach and indigestion

  • Support overall digestive health

💪 5. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Lemon balm contains compounds like rosmarinic acid, which:

  • Fight free radicals

  • Reduce inflammation

  • May support immune system health

😷 6. Potential Antiviral Properties

Lemon balm may help:

  • Soothe cold sores (when applied topically or taken as tea)

  • Provide mild antiviral effects against certain viruses like herpes simplex

🩺 7. Supports Heart Health (Emerging Evidence)

Preliminary studies suggest it may:

  • Help lower blood pressure

  • Reduce heart palpitations in some individuals

⚠️ Precautions

  • Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding unless approved by a healthcare provider

  • May interact with sedatives or thyroid medications

  • Should not be used in excess (moderation is key)

Here's what you're doing right on target:

  • Sun tea brings out lemon balm’s gentle flavor beautifully, and adding a lemon juice ice cube gives it a cooling citrus boost that complements the herb perfectly.

  • Enjoying it hot before bed taps into its natural calming and sleep-supportive properties—many people report the same relaxing effect you mentioned.

I get mine here https://amzn.to/3TgEtnW