Lemon Balm Extract is derived from the leaves of Melissa officinalis, a herb in the mint family that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Known for its lemony scent and mild flavor, lemon balm is popular in herbal teas, supplements, and topical preparations. It’s widely recognized for its calming properties, but it also offers a range of other health benefits. Lemon balm extract is a versatile herbal remedy, rich in compounds like rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and essential oils, which provide calming, antiviral, and cognitive-enhancing effects. It is widely used in Dietary Supplements, topical applications, herbal teas, and cosmetics for its mood-boosting, anti-anxiety, and antiviral properties.
Active Substances
1. Rosmarinic Acid:
This phenolic compound is one of the primary active substances in lemon balm. It has strong Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties and plays a key role in the plant’s therapeutic effects.
2. Flavonoids:
These include luteolin, quercetin, and apigenin, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Flavonoids support overall wellness and contribute to the calming and mood-enhancing effects of lemon balm.
3. Volatile Oils (Essential Oils):
Lemon balm contains essential oils such as citronellal, geranial, and neral, which give it its lemony aroma and offer antimicrobial, antiviral, and sedative effects. These oils contribute significantly to the calming and stress-relieving properties of the extract.
4. Triterpenes:
Triterpenes, including ursolic acid, provide anti-inflammatory and antiviral benefits. These compounds can help protect the body from infections and reduce inflammation.
5. Phenolic Acids:
Besides rosmarinic acid, other phenolic acids like caffeic and chlorogenic acids contribute to lemon balm’s antioxidant activity, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
6. Tannins:
These compounds have astringent properties and play a role in the antimicrobial and antiviral effects of lemon balm extract.
7. Polyphenols:
These are known for their antioxidant effects and contribute to lemon balm’s ability to neutralize free radicals, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Specific Effects
1. Calming and Anti-Anxiety Effects:
Lemon balm extract is widely recognized for its ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Its essential oils and rosmarinic acid have a mild sedative effect, making it useful for reducing stress and improving mood. Studies have shown that it can help with mild-to-moderate anxiety and improve cognitive function when stress levels are high.
2. Sleep Support:
Thanks to its calming properties, lemon balm is often used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. It helps calm the nervous system, promoting more restful sleep without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical sedatives.
3. Cognitive and Mood Enhancement:
The combination of rosmarinic acid and flavonoids can enhance cognitive performance, particularly in terms of memory and concentration. Lemon balm extract has also been shown to boost mood, reduce agitation, and improve clarity of thought, making it helpful for individuals with cognitive decline or age-related memory issues.
4. Antiviral and Antimicrobial Activity:
The essential oils and rosmarinic acid in lemon balm have strong antiviral and antimicrobial effects. It is particularly effective against herpes simplex virus (HSV) and can help reduce the severity and frequency of cold sore outbreaks when applied topically.
5. Digestive Support:
Lemon balm extract helps relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas. It has been traditionally used as a mild digestive aid, and its anti-spasmodic effects can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colic.
6. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
The anti-inflammatory action of lemon balm is primarily due to its high rosmarinic acid content, which helps reduce inflammation throughout the body. This effect is beneficial for individuals with conditions like arthritis, autoimmune disorders, or chronic inflammation.
7. Menstrual and PMS Relief:
Lemon balm has been used to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and alleviate other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as irritability, mood swings, and bloating.
Applications
1. Herbal Supplements:
Lemon balm extract is commonly used in capsule or liquid form for its calming, anxiety-reducing, and sleep-promoting effects. It is also found in combination supplements for mood support or cognitive enhancement.
2. Herbal Teas:
Dried lemon balm leaves or the extract are often used in teas to help promote relaxation, improve digestion, and alleviate stress.
3. Topical Creams and Ointments:
Lemon balm extract is included in creams and ointments, particularly those aimed at treating cold sores. Its antiviral properties help reduce the duration and severity of cold sore outbreaks.
4. Functional Foods and Beverages:
The extract is sometimes added to beverages or foods for its health-promoting effects, particularly its ability to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
5. Cosmetics and Skincare:
Due to its soothing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, lemon balm extract is used in skincare products to reduce redness, calm irritated skin, and protect against environmental stressors.
6. Aromatherapy:
The essential oils derived from lemon balm are used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation.
7. Pharmaceutical Use:
Lemon balm is being explored for its potential use in pharmaceutical treatments for anxiety, insomnia, herpes infections, and cognitive decline.
