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What it does…lemon balm

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What is it?

A member of the mint family, its lemon-scented leaves contain terpenes (found in the essential oils of plants), which contribute to its relaxing and antibacterial properties. Also contain anti-viral citral and eugenol essential oils.

What does it do?

Improves sleep: In a study of 68 women suffering from insomnia, those taking valerian root extract and lemon-balm extract for 14 days reported a 60 per cent reduction in severity of their problems.

Reduces anxiety: A trial by Northumbria University found that people taking a lemon balm and valerian supplement showed less anxiety when given a stressful test than others not taking it.

Relieves wind: a traditional remedy for indigestion, particularly wind. It helps by easing spasms in the digestive tract.

Kills cold sores: German research reveals that a group of patients with recurrent cold sores who were given a lemon-balm cream healed significantly faster than a group applying a placebo (dummy cream).

Helps with athlete’s foot: The essential oil inhibits fungi, which can cause athlete’s foot and ringworm.

When do I need it?

Whenever any of the conditions mentioned above arise.

How do I get it?

It is available in capsules, extracts, tinctures and aromatherapy oils. Creams or tea/infusion can be applied to the skin.

You can also grow your own lemon balm in a pot or in the garden. Use the leaves to make a tea or infusion. Steep a teaspoon of dried leaves or two teaspoons fresh in a mug of hot water.

Be careful if…

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid lemon balm. It can also interact with medications for anxiety, insomnia or thyroid problems.

Summary
Article Name
What it does...lemon balm
Description
Restless sleeper or suffering chronic cold sores? Lemon balm is an ideal tonic for these and other conditions.
Author
Publisher Name
Healthy Magazine
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