lemon balm, or Melissa plant

lemon balm or Melissa

The Most Relaxing Herb: Melissa
1. Reduce Alzheimer’s and dementia symptoms It was discovered that the essential oils released when chewing on Melissa leaves help improve our memory, extend our attention span and concentration in Alzheimer patients, as well as reduce the more extreme symptoms of dementia.

2. Treat herpes, plus other anti-viral effects Melissa contains polyphenols, which are beneficial in treating herpes-induced cold sores. Furthermore, research found that regular consumption of Melissa will reduce the frequency in which the sores appear. 3. Facial cleanser A Melissa infusion can be used as an effective facial cleanser. Put a handful of leaves in 4 cups of boiling water and let the steam soften your face and open up your pores. Once the water cools down, massage the infusion into the skin, and then wash your face with cold water.

4. Treat anxiety and insomnia Regular consumption of Melissa was shown to be effective in reducing anxiety, stress, and sleep disorders. One research even found it to be as effective as prescription medicine. Chewing Melissa releases various chemicals with calming and beneficial properties, and the German version of the FDA approved the use of Melissa as treatment for sleep disorders.
5. Relieve headaches Melissa’s calming effects are perfect for treating headaches, and a Melissa infusion is particularly effective. Next time you get a headache, try a cup of Melissa infusion instead of pain relief medication.
6. Help with chronic fatigue and thyroid balancing The chemicals in Melissa leaves have been shown to have a measurable effect on the thyroid, as well as the production of hormones. The same chemicals help treat chronic fatigue and other thyroid-related disorders like Graves’ disease.

7. Improve the levels of concentration Research conducted by Northumbria University in England found that regular consumption of Melissa dramatically increased the scores of students, compared to other students who did not consume the plant. As long as six hours after consumption, students were much more calm and focused.

8. Calming an upset stomach Melissa’s calming properties work wonders for an upset digestive system. It is also beneficial in reducing stomach cramps and gas buildup.

9. Anti-aging properties Melissa is a great source of antioxidants, which protect our bodies from free radicals that speed up the aging process. 10. Treat bug bites and skin lesions Using a Melissa infusion on insect bites and minor skin lesions can help in relieving the irritation and speed up the healing process.