Balm is a generic term used for many of the fragrant herbs of the mint family, Lamiaceae. Balm is also the name given to other unrelated herbs, like bee balm or Oswego tea, Monarda didyma, horse balm, Collinsonia canadensis, and field balm, Glecoma hederacea or Satureja nepeta. Aromatic resins from certain firs, poplars and incense-trees may also be called balms.
Lemon balm, also known as balm gentle, garden balm, melissa or just plain balm, is from the plant Melissa officinalis. It's a member of the mint family that is native to southern Europe. It has become naturalized in much of the eastern United States where it occurs in old pastures, open woodlands and around old homestead sites. It is cultivated in temperate climates around the world for its aromatic leaves. The perennial plant grows one to two feet tall with round-toothed, heart-shaped leaves opposite one another. Small, irregular white flowers appear mostly in the leaf axils. All parts of the plant are highly aromatic.
The leaves and young shoots are used to flavor foods, such as salads, soups, fruit dishes, omelets, sauces, fish dishes and stuffings. Use balm as a substitute for lemon or lemongrass in any recipe. Balm can sometimes be too strong and almost bitter, so it may be helpful to mix it with other herbs like marjoram, thyme or basil.
Beverages, like liqueurs, wines and fruit drinks, are also seasoned with the citrus-like scent of lemon balm. Fresh sprigs of lemon balm in summer drinks add a refreshing aroma. Since ancient times Greeks and Asians have used Melissa for flavoring wine drinks, in medicinal teas, and as a diaphoretic to produce perspiration.
Folklore uses of lemon balm tea include a general tonic for headaches, migraines, fevers, depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress, bronchitis, asthma, colic, premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms. Antibacterial properties of polyphenols in balm make it a good antiseptic to speed healing of cuts and abrasions. Crushed fresh leaves can be applied directly to the affected area. Research has verified the antiviral, antibacterial, anti-histaminic, antioxidant and antispasmodic properties. Commercial antiviral ointments are sold in Germany to treat cold sores and herpes infections. Balm also contains eugenol, which lends it pain-killing properties.
Balm tea is widely used in Germany as an anti-anxiety aid. It acts like a sedative or tranquilizer, so the tea is best enjoyed before bedtime and should be avoided before driving or running machinery. Alternatively, add some sprigs of balm to a hot bath and let the soothing lemony aroma relax you.
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