A perennial herb from the mint family, the leaves of the lemon balm is used alone or in combination with various other herbs to make medicine that cures a lot of ailments from your entire body. This perennial herb was used medicinally by the Greeks some 2,000 years ago to cure digestive problems, like stomach upset, intestinal gas, vomiting and for various other treatments like headache and toothache. It was used in the Middle Ages to soothe tension, dress wounds, cure mad dog bites and sickness during pregnancy. As a medicinal plant, it has also been used against bronchial inflammation, fever, earache, high blood pressure, mood swings and many more. Its leaves were also used to make tea to soothe menstrual cramps and provide relief during PMS.
Centuries Old Cure to Several Modern Diseases
Several modern diseases which have no proper medication can be cured by combining the medicinal properties of this perennial herb with other medicines. It provides a natural treatment for a variety of diseases and has very mild or negligible side effect as compared to modern medication. Applying a balm containing 1% lemon balm as a lip balm prevents spread of infection on lips and reduces symptoms of recurring cold sores. Lemon balm tea inhibits the division of tumor cells, is also known to be beneficial for those with Grave’s disease, gastrointestinal complaints and urinary spasms. It is inhaled as aromatherapy for Alzheimer’s disease. Its anti-histamine action is used to treat eczema and accounts for the centuries old tradition of putting fresh leaf on insect bites and wounds. It is even said to prevent baldness, which is major concern in modern times. The German Standard License for lemon balm tea approves it for curing nervous disorder including anxiety and sleep problems.
Probable Side Effects and Safety Measures to be Taken
Medicine prepared from this medicinal plant, like lemon balm, is mostly safe when used in proper amount. Many people believe that because of its calming effects it has the capability of curing nervous disorder including anxiety and sleep problems. Research studies have shown that its short term medicinal usage on adults is quite safe, though no proper evidence have been found regarding its long term use. Information suggests that for infants and older children below the age of 12 years it might be safe when taken in appropriate amounts. When consumed orally it can cause some minor side effects like nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Even application on the skin can have certain negligible irritation and cold sores in a few cases. However, special precautions should be taken when using this balm during pregnancy or breast feeding as there is not enough information available on the use of this balm during such periods. So it is always safe to avoid the use of it during that period. It might cause a feeling of drowsiness when combined with medications. So to be on the safer side avoid using it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.