Lemon Balm
(Melissa officinalis)

Ruling Planet: Jupiter

Element: Air

"Balm is sovereign for the brain, strengthening the memory and powerfully chasing away melancholy." John Evelyn, 1679.

The Bard tells us in his play: "The Merry Wives Of Windsor" , that the oil is good as a furniture polish. "The several chairs of order / Scour well with juice of Balm."

MEDICINAL: Lemon Balm is used in treating headaches, colds, and nervous or upset stomachs. Externally the crushed leaves can be applied to wounds and insect bites to speed healing.

An infusion is made by steeping the leaves (fresh are best) in water. If you make a tincture from the fresh leaves, the dose to take would be 5-10 drops in water. It is more potent than the infusion. Some even claim it to be the "fountain of youth." The extract of the leaves has antiviral qualities and can be used to clean wounds. (Dilute it in sterile water as a wash; as an ointment use 5 ml oil to 100 grams of base.) Aromatherapists use the essential oil as an anti-depressant, and to ease asthma, and eczema. (Be aware that most "Lemon Balm Essential Oil" offered for sale, has been blended with lemon or lemon grass oils.) Rub the oil or leaves onto empty bee hives to entice new tenants.

RELIGIOUS: Lemon Balm is used in spells to bring success, and in healing spells. It is often used in spells to find love and friendship.

GROWING: Lemon Balm is a perennial that can reach up to 3 feet high. It needs full sun and rich soil with regular watering. Plant where you can enjoy the lemon scent of the leaves from a porch, deck, or open window.

Propagation: The most convenient way to start lemon balm is by dividing existing plants in spring and fall or transplanting self-sown seedlings in late spring. You can also sow seed outdoors in early spring or start seedlings indoors eight weeks before the last spring frost. To bring lemon balm indoors for winter, take stem cuttings in midsummer.