Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
Use in traditional medicine
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), an herb with a history dating back more than 2000 years, is valued for its medicinal and culinary uses. Originally native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean, it was already valued by the ancient Greeks and Romans for treating wounds and soothing ailments. In the Middle Ages, it became a cornerstone of European herbal medicine, especially in monastery gardens, where it was cultivated for its calming effects. Lemon balm was often used to relieve stress, anxiety and digestive complaints. It also gained a reputation as an "elixir of life", which was said to promote vitality and longevity. In the 17th century, the plant spread to England and later to North America, where it remains a popular remedy for insomnia, nervous disorders and digestive complaints. Its historical use reflects a deep-rooted belief in its ability to promote well-being and prolong life.
What is lemon balm?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant of the mint family known for its lemon-scented leaves and calming effects. The plant grows mainly in temperate climates and is often used in herbal medicine and as a spice in the kitchen. Lemon balm is most commonly consumed as a tea or in the form of dietary supplements such as capsules and extracts. It is often praised for its relaxing, stress-reducing and sleep-inducing effects, making it a popular choice for people seeking a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia. The calming effect is attributed to the high content of rosmarinic acid and other bioactive compounds that can influence the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. Although rosemary is traditionally used to improve cognitive function, research suggests that its cognitive effects may vary.
Composition of lemon balm
Lemon balm contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its potential health benefits, including phenolic acids, flavonoids and essential oils. Among the phenolic acids, rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid are particularly noteworthy for their antioxidant properties. These compounds help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which is associated with aging and various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders. The flavonoids contained in lemon balm also contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects and support overall health.
In addition, lemon balm's essential oils, such as citronellal and geraniol, contribute to its calming aroma and may play a role in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Together, these compounds make lemon balm an effective herb with a range of potentially health-promoting properties, particularly in relation to stress management and supporting cognitive health.
Lemon balm and longevity for better sleep
Lemon balm is traditionally used to promote relaxation and improve sleep, making it a popular choice for people suffering from anxiety-induced insomnia. Its calming effects are thought to be due to ingredients such as rosmarinic acid, which can increase the availability of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and relieves anxiety. By improving sleep quality, lemon balm can contribute to better overall health, which is crucial for longevity. Adequate sleep is essential for the body's repair processes, cognitive function and emotional well-being, all of which play a role in healthy aging. Although there is evidence that lemon balm can improve sleep quality, particularly in people with anxiety, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness. However, the long history of use and the presence of bioactive compounds suggest that lemon balm could be a valuable addition to a natural sleep support program that could contribute to a longer and healthier life by improving sleep and reducing stress.
Lemon balm extract
After careful selection, our experts have chosen a lemon balm extract (Melissa officinalis) from the EU, obtained by water extraction from the leaves of the plant. The extract is standardized to contain at least 2.5% rosmarinic acid. It meets strict quality standards, including low levels of heavy metals, and is free from GMOs, allergens and irradiation. The extract also meets microbiological safety parameters and is therefore suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications.
