What Is Lemon Balm, And How Can You Use It? | HuffPost

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From anxiety to cold sores, this herb is a helper.

Rebecca Zamon— The Huffington Post Canada

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When it comes to natural remedies, it can be hard to tell which are really useful, and which are, frankly, kind of overblown. But with lemon balm, history seems to reveal that this herb is one you'll want to keep around for a variety of reasons.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, and sometimes referred to just as "Melissa"), is a member of the mint family, and has been used for millennia for its calming effects — it was believed by the ancient Greeks to attract bees, as well as promote a long life, according to an academic paper from Hamilton College.

Sold as capsules, teas, essential oils, creams, and ointments, lemon balm is easy to find on the market. Recently, it's seen a surge in popularity, most likely due to its association with helping with anxiety. But due to its sedative effects, it's important to note never to use lemon balm with prescription medications that can cause drowsiness, or when drinking alcohol.

We took a look at the many uses that have been linked to lemon balm and determined just how valid they are based on scientific evidence — and we're happy to say, this herb is (mostly) legit. Check out the slideshow below:

How To Use Lemon Balm

Indigestion(01 of10)

In Germany, lemon balm is licensed as a medicinal tea for gastrointestinal tract disorders, and has been noted by Health Canada as being used in traditional medicine for digestive disturbances. This includes anything from flatulence to acid reflux. (credit:Toshiro Shimada via Getty Images)

Herpes(02 of10)

Lemon balm has been found to be helpful in reducing swelling and redness affiliated with oral herpes, or cold sores, according to the University of Maryland — and also the healing time of both oral and genital herpes.Check out this homemade lip balm recipe from The Nerdy Farm Wife to create your own. (credit:drkskmn via Getty Images)

Anxiety(03 of10)

Thanks to its calming effects, lemon balm has long been used by those who feel anxious. In a 2011 study using lemon balm extract, mice were found to respond very positively to reduced anxiety symptoms after using the herb for three months. (credit:Glen Hadiardja via Getty Images)

Insomnia(04 of10)

In the same study, insomnia was also found to be reduced through the use of lemon balm. Sleep Junkies recommends soaking the leaves in hot water for 10 minutes to make a tea, and drinking it before bed. (credit:Rubberball/Mike Kemp via Getty Images)

Alzheimer's And Dementia(05 of10)

While more research is needed into the effects of lemon balm on memory, some studies have shown positive effects of the herb in helping increase functional abilities, and decrease difficult and agitated behaviour in patients with advance dementia. (credit:Andrew Bret Wallis via Getty Images)

IBS(06 of10)

Much like its help with other problems of indigestion, lemon balm can assist with those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. (credit:Peter Dazeley via Getty Images)

Bug Repellent(07 of10)

Its strong odour is to thank for its insect repelling properties, according to Canadian Gardening, much like citronella. Bloom, Bake & Create has a recipe for making your own repellent spray at home. (credit:Gregor Buir via Getty Images)

Skin Care(08 of10)

Thanks to its antioxidant properties, lemon balm has been associated with helping to retain moisture in the skin — and thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. No wonder it's a common ingredient in so many skin creams. (credit:Cecile Lavabre via Getty Images)

Colic(09 of10)

Colic is commonly caused by stomach issues in babies, and some of the natural remedies suggested by doctors include lemon balm in their ingredients. But be sure to check with your pediatrician before giving your child any medication, natural or otherwise. (credit:Evan Kafka via Getty Images)

Hyperthyroidism And Graves' Disease(10 of10)

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lemon balm tea can help normalize an overactive thyroid. While the herb is used in Europe as part of the treatment for Graves' disease and other hyperthyroid conditions, make sure to check with your doctor that it is appropriate for you, and any other medications you may be taking. (credit:Zoonar RF via Getty Images)

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