Lemon balm has medicinal benefits and is actually used in making some medicines. The oil of Lemon balm is used as an aromatherapy for Alzheimer's patients, as part of their mental therapy. The leaf and oils of Lemon balm are used for anxiety, sleep therapy, stomach issues, high blood pressure and even as a wound healer. As a tea, it may help those with PMS and Menstrual cramping. Ongoing research into ADHD includes Lemon Balm, and is used in treating headaches, bug bites and even mental disorders.
As with all herbs and medicines, Pregnant or lactating women should not use without consulting their primary physician. There are few side effects from using Lemon Balm, but always check with your physician and always use any herb in moderation. Natural does not always mean safe to use for some individuals.
One of my fondest memories when we were growing up was walking past the Lemon balm that was growing alongside our white picket fence. Reaching out to pluck a leaf and smelling the lemony fragrance still invokes memories of days gone by.
This herb is related to mint and can be invasive just as its family members. It grows easily from seed and once in the garden it will be there for many years as it reseeds itself. Plan a fair amount of space and barriers to keep the plants confined to the allotted space.
Lemon Balm Solar Tea
Servings: 1 Gallon
4-6 Fresh Cut Lemon Balm Sprigs
4-6 Tea Bags
1 gallon Water
Directions
Cut the fresh Lemon Balm, remove any blemished leaves, wash and shake out the water. Lightly bruise the leaves. Place the leaves in a gallon of water with the tea bags. Allow to steep in the sun for 4-6 hours. Remove the Lemon Balm Sprigs and tea bags. Chill before serving. Add lemon slices to the serving glass.
To Make Lemon Balm Sweet Tea, make a simple syrup of 1 cup water to 1 cup sugar. bring to a boil and stir to dissolve the sugar. Allow to cool. Add to the gallon of Solar tea. Always adjust sweetness to your own taste.
NOTE: Do not discard the lemon balm sprig, you can use it to add flavor to meat or salad or chop it up and give to the chickens or allow it to dry and use as flavoring for seasoning mix or in a potpourri mixture. The leaves can be dried and added to chicken feed or chicken treats or used in the nesting boxes.
REUSE: Do not discard the tea bag. Remove the string and label, then toss the tea bags into a container of plants. When you water, the tannic acid will add elements to the soil in a slow release method. If you are using loose tea, just empty the used tea leaves into the plant container.
The tea bags and herb sprigs can be added to compost.
Follow the link to make Hot Herbal Tea:
http://justfowlingaround.weebly.com/sweets-treats-and-drinks/herbal-tea
Follow the link for Rosemary Solar Tea:
justfowlingaround.weebly.com/sweets-treats-and-drinks/rosemary-solar-tea
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CREDENTIALS: Certified Oregon State Master Gardener since 1999. Horticulture degree 2001. Study of Herbs and Horticulture Therapy, heavy research and study of all plants and herbs. Gardening a lifetime.