Botanical Overview
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as Lemon balm or Melissa, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Europe, the Mediterranean, West Asia, and has naturalized in North America. The herbal preparations primarily use the leaves and aerial parts.
Energetics
Melissa officinalis is considered to have a cooling temperature and moistening quality. It has bitter and sweet tastes, with descending and centered directionality. The herb is relaxing in tonicity and primarily affects the qi.
Primary Actions
- Anxiolytic
- Antiviral
- Carminative
- Nervine
- Sedative
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Gastrointestinal spasms
- Indigestion
- Viral infections, especially herpes simplex
Syndromes
- Nervous tension
- Functional dyspepsia
- Herpes labialis
TCM
- Epigastric pain
- Stagnation of Liver qi
- Restlessness
Syndromes
- Liver qi stagnation
- Heart and Spleen deficiency
Ayurveda
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Flatulence
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Pitta aggravation
Unani
- Nervous disorders
- Gastric discomfort
Syndromes
- Nervous excitability
- Dyspepsia
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, flavonoids, tannins, citral, geraniol, and other monoterpenes, which contribute to the herb’s antiviral, sedative, and spasmolytic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g dried leaf, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
- Extract: standardized extracts containing rosmarinic acid as per manufacturer’s instructions
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately. Potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Use cautiously in pregnancy and lactation. May potentiate sedatives and thyroid medications; monitoring advised. Contraindicated or cautioned in hypothyroidism.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary Ruler: Venus
Elemental Ruler: Air
Selected References
- European Medicines Agency – Community Herbal Monograph: Melissa officinalis L., herba (2011)
- Plants For A Future Database: Melissa officinalis
- Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs, McGuffin et al., 1997
- Pharmacological effects of rosmarinic acid, Sheng et al., 2019
- Medical Herbalism, David Hoffmann, 2003