Lemon balm, also known as balm, common balm or balm mint, scientific name Melissa officinalis, is a plant of the Lamiaceae family. From the leaves of lemon balm a mother tincture is obtained characterized by a sedative, anxiolytic and antispasmodic action (Scholey et al, Nutrients, Nov 2014), therefore useful in case of anxiety, nervousness, insomnia and before exams at school or university or important tests at work. This remedy may be able, indeed, to mitigate the performance anxiety that these situations can cause. Moreover, the lemon balm mother tincture finds application in the case of psychosomatic illnesses affecting the stomach, intestine and heart. Finally, this mother tincture (Akbarzadeh et al, Nurs Midwifery Stud, Jun 2015) helps in case of migraines, abdominal pain and cramps, thus being helpful in case of pain caused by nervousness or heavy periods. You can find the melissa tincture in herbalist’s or chemist’s shops, you can take 40 drops in a glass of water 1 to 3 times a day after meals. Avoid the remedy during pregnancy and breastfeeding or if you suffer from thyroid problems because the action of the lemon balm could inhibit its functioning (Ulbricht et al, J Herb Pharmacother, 2005). Ask your doctor for advice if you are taking medication in order to avoid interactions.
Synergy
For an even more relaxing and anti-stress action you can combine the mother tincture of lemon balm taken by mouth with the external application of lavender essential oil. You can mix 3-4 drops of lavender essence in a tablespoon of sweet almond oil and slowly massage the abdomen. Alternatively, you can diffuse this essential oil in the rooms with an oil burner.
