Natalie sitting by the lemon balm
medicinal and culinary herbs at Lokahi Garden Sanctuary
Today’s Focus—-Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis
From the beginning of time, plants and herbs have been allies and support to us fellow human beings. If you are interested in partnering with plants, especially some common medicinal and culinary herbs, please join me on this blog on a regular basis to begin the journey of using and enjoying the rich bounty
of useful plants for mind, body and spirit that are grown at Lokahi Garden Sanctuary.
Chose one that you like and decide to pursue getting to know it better.
Today, I’ll talk about my favorite…Lemon Balm “Melissa officinalis”. You can see me with my teapot and cup next to the lemon balm plant getting ready to pick some for my daily tea.
The soft lemony fragrance of lemon balm, the lightness of the green of the leaf, the slightly heart shape of the leaf appeals to me. To identify and enjoy the fragrance of an herb, gently squeeze or rub a leaf and sniff it.
Medicinal uses of Lemon Balm
tea has an antibacterial and antiviral properties effective against the Herpes virus
mild sedative or calming agent
improves mood and mental performance
mosquito repellant (crushed leaves)
Culinary uses:
-teas, ice cream, desserts, fish, pesto
Warning: lemon balm should be avoided by those on thyroid medication.
Cultivation: does best in zones 4-9, full sun and shade tolerant.
My daily garden tea recipe:
Lemon Balm-Two or three 5 inch sprigs
Mint- One 5 inch sprig of mint,
False Tarragon – one 3 inch sprig
Delicious, aromatic, nutritional and medicinal
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil and pour over the herbs in a teapot. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes and enjoy!
Follow Us!