What Can You Cook With Lemon Balm?

Everything You Need to Know About Lemon Balm

An Overview of Lemon Balms

Situated within the vibrant green world of herbs and spices, the Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) holds a prominent place. This perennial herbaceous plant, which also goes by the names Bee Balm, Sweet Balm, Dropsy Plant, and Melissa, is a bounty of wellness that comes with an aroma that is a refreshing mixture of lemon and mint.

Originating in the eastern Mediterranean region and western Asia, Lemon Balm has through time become a home staple around the world. It is widely grown in Europe, North America, and Asia, both for its culinary flavours, health benefits and the visual appeal they bring to gardens. The name ‘Melissa’ is derived from the Greek word for honey bees, symbolising the plant’s remarkable ability to attract bees and butterflies.

Culinary Uses and Health Benefits

Not only does Lemon Balm enhance the zest of a myriad of dishes, ranging from teas and cocktails to salads and main courses, it also comes with a profusion of potential health benefits. Extensive research has linked Lemon Balm with the ability to improve cognitive function, help with sleep disorders, enhance mood and reduce anxiety, combat inflammation, and is also known to possess antioxidative, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties.

The essential oils within the leaves are where the magic happens. Containing substances such as citronellal and geraniol, Lemon Balm has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a range of conditions. While it is generally safe for consumption, it is always recommended to consume it in moderation and consult with a healthcare expert if you’re considering using it as part of a treatment plan.

How to Use Lemon Balm?

Luckily, adding this wonderful herb to your diet is incredibly simple. Fresh or dried, Lemon Balm leaves can be used to brew herbal teas, as additions to salads, in marinades, and even as garnishes in cocktails. With their delightful aroma and the subtle hint of mint and lemon, sprucing up your culinary experiences with Lemon Balm leaves is sure to leave everyone delighted.

The plant is also widely used in aromatherapy, with its calming scent believed to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Moreover, the essential oil is utilized in a range of beauty and health products, including creams, lotions, and balms. You can even grow a Lemon Balm plant in your own backyard or kitchen garden, to have consistent access to its fragrant and healing leaves.

In conclusion, the humble Lemon Balm is a world of goodness unto itself, bridging the gap between health, wellness, and culinary joy. It’s a delightful herb that whispers a simple yet profound truth – sometimes, good things do come in small packages.