Stress commonly occurs in people working in high-pressure environments. Prolonged stress may lead to health problems such as insomnia, headaches, reduced concentration, heart problems and memory decline… Lemon balm has long been considered an herb that helps counter these stress-related symptoms and has many other uses. Let’s learn more about this herb with LifeWise!
Some characteristics of lemon balm
Lemon balm has the scientific name Melissa officinalis or Lemon balm. It originates from Europe, North Africa and West Asia and is now widely cultivated around the world.
It is an herbaceous plant whose leaves have a mild lemon scent and whose flowers bloom in summer.
Lemon balm is mainly used as a food seasoning, for making tea, or as an extract in dietary supplements intended to improve mood, reduce stress and support sleep…
Benefits of lemon balm for the body
- Helps counter anxiety and improve mood
Lemon balm contains rosmarinic acid, a component that interacts with GABA in the brain and helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and prolonged stress.
According to a study published in Nutrients, 0.3 grams of lemon balm extract may significantly reduce stress and improve other mood disorders.
- Helps reduce symptoms of insomnia and sleep disorders
Insomnia is often accompanied by anxiety and depression. Women during menopause in particular experience hormonal changes that can lead to hot flashes, restlessness and anxiety.
Therefore, lemon balm extracts containing rosmarinic acid may have a mild sedative effect, stimulate Serotonin production, reduce feelings of anxiety and support better sleep.
- Supports the prevention of digestive disorders
Lemon balm extract contains citronellal, citral, linalool and geraniol, which help support the prevention of symptoms such as stomach pain and irritable bowel syndrome,… At the same time, because of its positive effect on the digestive system, lemon balm may also help reduce nausea, indigestion and bloating.
- Ability to counter bacteria and viruses
In addition, citral in lemon balm extract is believed to reduce the formation of plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease and help improve memory. Recent studies also suggest that lemon balm leaves may help fight influenza and Herpes viruses and reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Through this article, we can see the remarkable uses of lemon balm leaves, particularly their positive effects on sleep, mood stabilization and the digestive system. Follow LifeWise365 for more health information!