‘Greek Common Lemon Balm’

Ref: LAMI_MELI_OFFI_001

Common Name: Lemon balm / Mélisse Officinale / Μελισσόχορτο

Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis

Plant’s cycle: Perennial

Light Requirement: full sun, semi-shade

Soil type: Sandy, loamy well drained soils.

Sowing in nursery: Spring or Autumn

Direct Planting: Spring or Autumn

Germination: slow

Harvest:   120 days after sowing

Spacing: 15cm/15cm/1cm deep  

Flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs)

Pollination: Bees

Plant is Self-fertile

Seed preservation: 5years

Edible Parts: Leaves, (Condiment, Tea)

Medicine: Antianxiety;  Antibacterial;  Antidepressant;  Antiemetic;  Antispasmodic;  Antiviral;  Aromatherapy;  Carminative;  Diaphoretic;  Digestive;  Emmenagogue;  Febrifuge;  Sedative;  Tonic

The leaves and young flowering shoots are antibacterial, antispasmodic, antiviral, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, emmenagogue, febrifuge, sedative, and tonic. An infusion of the leaves is used in the treatment of fevers and colds, indigestion associated with nervous tension, excitability and digestive upsets in children, hyperthyroidism, depression, mild insomnia, headaches etc. Externally, it is used to treat herpes, sores, gout, insect bites and as an insect repellent. The essential oil contains citral and citronella, which act to calm the central nervous system and are strongly antispasmodic. The plant also contains polyphenols, in particular these combat the herpes simplex virus which produces cold sores. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy.

Other Uses: Repellent.

Known Hazards: Can cause irritation in high concentrates. Avoid during pregnancy. Care if sensitive skin.