Balm more often known as lemon balm, common balm, sweet balm, garden balm, melissa, balm mint, blue balm, heart’s delight.

Habitat

It grows in herb gardens and border fronts for its lemon-scented leaves. The plant is native to North Africa, south-central Europe, the Mediterranean region, Central Asia and Iran but now naturalized in the U.S.

Description

The plant is found growing in thickets, fence rows, abandoned home sites, vacant lots, and areas along roadsides, banks of ponds, and waste areas. This bushy plant grows to a height of 70–150 cm. The leaves have a mild lemon scent similar to mint.

 

Traditional Uses and benefits

  • Balm traditionally has been used for internal or external applications for the treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, nervous system, and bile in traditional Australian medicine.
  • A study in 2004 found that taking this herb soothes negative feelings and reduces anxiety symptoms such as nervousness and excitability.
  • Its pain-relieving properties help to relieve toothache pain and useful in treating headaches caused by stress. Its relaxing properties help to unwind, release tension and relax muscles.
  • According to some research, the balm helps to relieve menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome.
  • Researchers have verified that both balm essential oil and its extract have a similar effect. Both produce similar results by reducing oxidative stress and reducing blood sugar levels related to diabetes.

Dosage and Precautions

If you want to get in a capsule, Take 300 to 500 mg dried balm three times daily, or as needed.

Take 2 to 4.5 grams of dried herb in hot water. Steep and drink up to 4 times daily.  

For herpes sores or cold sores, steep 2 to 4 teaspoons of crushed leaf in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes. After cooling, apply tea with cotton balls to the sores throughout the day.

If you want to get it as a tincture, use 60 drops daily

Warning: This herb may cause side effects such as; headache, painful urination, increase body temperatures, vomiting, stomachache, dizziness, and skin irritation. You can have it alongside food to minimize its side effects, and this plant should only be taken for a short period. You have to consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have scheduled surgery.

DISCLAIMER

The content and information on newerapost for information and educational purposes only. It is not for self-diagnosis and self-treatment. The content is not a medical manual. Before beginning the use of any prescription, medication and pursuing any self-treatment, all readers should consult a physician.

The information given in this article is intended to help you make informed decisions for your health. You must consult with your doctor before pursuing any natural remedies if you are under care for any health condition.

Do not take any vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other supplements without consulting your doctor, if you are taking any medication. The website does not make a representation, express or implied, regarding the accuracy of the information and does not accept any single responsibility for any errors or misuse.