Lemon Balm is a member of the mint family and is native to Southern Europe and Northern Africa

Lemon Balm has bright green, wrinkled, heart shaped leaves with toothed edges and square stems. Lemon Balm flowers are small and white, but  can also have a yellow or pink tint.  

Lemon Balm produces a bright lemony scent, attributed to its volatile terpenoid composition,  that relays a sense of relaxation.  Lemon balm has been used throughout the ages to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, and ease digestive discomfort. 

Lemon balm contributes high antioxidant activity via flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, gallic acid, and other phenolic specie, such as quercetin. Extracts of lemon balm have been shown reduce oxidative stress and repair oxidatively damaged tissues.

Fresh sprigs of lemon balm are frequently muddled in refreshing drinks and cocktails. The herb provides a vibrant citrus note to fruit salads, summer salads, poultry, and fish.

Fresh or dried leaves can be used for teas, soup flavorings, and for medicinal purposes. Leaves are best used fresh for optimum flavor and health benefits, but can also be dried for later use.