Lemon Balm: Salve for the Soul
What does the word “balm” mean to you? Is it soothing? Does it cover or heal or calm a wound? Often we equate a balm with a salve, and it’s true that this is one literal definition of the word. But when you think of lemon balm, do you think of a topical salve or a hot cup of tea? Is the medicine of this plant working externally or internally?
The answer could be: both, and more!
Lemon balm derives its Latin name from the Greek word for “honeybee,” and if you’ve ever grown the plant, you know it’s a favorite with these busy, winged creatures. Lemon balm is called “balm” because of its sweet, aromatic compounds which are reminiscent of the true balmy, resinous plants and trees. Unlike true resinous plants, lemon balm extracts well in water as well as alcohol and oil, making it extremely versatile in medicine making.
Do you love to crush this fresh plant between your fingers and smell the delicious fragrance? Does a hot cup of tea from its leaves or a bit of tincture soothe your mind and soul? Lemon balm has a unique action on the nervous system that is calming without causing drowsiness and penetrates deep into the nerves with a toning, healing action. This is great plant medicine for anxiety that is accompanied by restlessness and depression that is spurred by an overactive mind. Sometimes just the deep flavor of the plant will help us to slow down and take the time to soak up what we are experiencing right in that moment, without so much concern for what comes next.
Lemon balm is healing to our nervous system not just in the ways that it helps us to manage the world around us and how we are experiencing it, but in its actions on viral infections as well, specifically those that take up residence in our nervous systems. The most common viral example of this is the herpes family, which includes not only HSV but chicken pox, shingles, and Epstein-Barr virus as well as many others. The plant medicine of lemon balm is able to work closely with our bodies to help suppress the symptoms of these viruses, which in turn gives the immune system some respite. A lovely salve can be made with the leaves of the plant combined with sage and tea tree oil to soothe any external sores from the virus.
So the next time you plant your herb garden, consider making a place for this versatile and fragrant ally. Just remember that as a member of the mint family, she’s prone to plod and wander her way all through your pathways and garden beds! But honestly, we could think of worse things than having to weed out some lemon balm; sounds like tea time