Description
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon Balm belongs to the mint family, which grows in southern Europe, especially in the Mediterranean. This herb was dedicated to the goddess Artemis and it was considered by many as an erotic charm. It is said that in the Middle Ages alchemists used Melissa to make youth elixirs. The name “Melissa” was taken from the Greek “melisso-phyllon” (μελισσό-φύλλον), which literally means “bee leaf”.
Lemon balm seems to be a herb with many uses. Clinical studies are discovering more and more properties. It shows strong antioxidant activity and moderate antibacterial. It also seems to have beneficial effects on hypertension, insomnia, anorexia, nerves, pressure and headache.
The beverage made from lemon balm is really well known. However, it can also be used in cooking. More specific, it can be used in baking and cooking for flavoring baked meats, poultry, fish, soups and salads. In Western Europe there is a popular drink with the name “Eau de melisse des Carmes”, that was first made by Carmelite monks in the 17th century.