This botanical profile is part of the Star Naturals Herbal Library.
Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Historical / Folk Use
Lemon balm has been used for centuries in European herbal traditions as a gently uplifting and calming botanical. It was traditionally prepared as tea, washes, and infused oils or balms, offering a bright citrus, minty aroma.
Lemon balm was valued for supporting emotional balance, soothing tension, and promoting skin comfort.
Energetics
Traditionally described as:
• Gentle and soothing
• Cooling and calming
• Softly hydrating
• Relaxing to tension
• Lightly uplifting
• Harmonizing to mood
• Aromatic and bright
• Balancing and steady
Research & Resources
The research summaries below highlight findings from scientific studies on compounds found in this botanical.
They are provided for educational purposes and do not represent claims about the effects of Star Naturals products.
Study 1:
This review summarizes research on lemon balm’s phytochemistry and traditional uses, noting antioxidant compounds (e.g., phenolic acids) and documented antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroactive components.
Study 2:
Scientific reviews indicate that lemon balm extracts contain anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that are linked with modulation of inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress pathways, which form parts of skin responses to irritation and injury.