Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon balm, a perennial herb native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Its use in medicinal purposes dates back to around 2000 BCE in Egypt, where it was considered a sacred herb. In Greek and Roman cultures, lemon balm was used for its soothing effects and pleasant scent, and was often planted in the gardens of the Pharaohs. In the Middle Ages, it was used to treat various ailments, including the bubonic plague, and was believed to have calming and uplifting effects on the spirit.

In the Renaissance, lemon balm gained popularity as a symbol of love and was often used in love potions and monastic gardens for its calming properties and religious ceremonies. Today, it is widely cultivated in home gardens and commercially for its essential oil, which is used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and food and beverages.

To sow and grow lemon balm, choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Sow lemon balm seeds in the spring after the last frost date, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun to partial shade, and water regularly. Lemon balm prefers temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C), and may die back in colder winters but will regrow from the roots in the spring. Feed the plants with a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring, prune regularly, and harvest the leaves as soon as they are 6 inches tall.

Lemon balm can be propagated through division or stem cuttings, but it tends to self-seed and spread, so it’s important to keep an eye on it in the garden to prevent it from becoming invasive.

Do not use for medicinal purpose without expert medical advice.