Lemon Balm (Melissa)

Origin: South-central Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, Iran, and Central Asia

Family: Lamiaceae
Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis

Folk Names: Bee balm, common balm, honey plant, lemon balsam, Melissa, sweet balm, sweet balsam

Magical

Element: Water
Day: Monday
Planet: Moon
Zodiac: Cancer
Associated Celebrations: Deities: Artemis, Diana, Hecate, Kupala, Selene

Magical Properties: Healing (especially of emotional problems), fertility, comforting, love, success, harmony

Aromatherapy

Part Used: Flowers
Extraction Method: Steam distillation
Flash Point: 79°C

Scent Type: Citrus
Perfume Note: Middle
Scent Description: Fresh, lemon-y scent

Aromatherapeutic Uses

Lemon balm is calming and uplifting. Can be helpful with anxiety, depression, nausea, headaches. Lemon balm is also anti-fungal.

Blends well with: Basil, frankincense, lavender

Warnings:

May cause skin irritation and sensitisation, dilute double for topical application.

In the Garden

Type: Perennial
Sow: Spring
Light: Medium light
Water: Keep moist
Soil: Rich

Companion Planting: Lavender.

Tips: