Lemon balm

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Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), also known as balm mint, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family and native to south-central Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, Iran, and Central Asia, but now naturalized elsewhere.

Pronunciation

Lemon Balm: /ˈlɛmən ˈbɑːm/

Etymology

The name "lemon balm" is derived from its lemon-like aroma and balm-like properties. The word "balm" is an abbreviation of "balsam," the ancient word for a sweet-smelling oil or soothing ointment. "Melissa" is Greek for "honey bee," which is attracted to the plant's white flowers.

Description

Lemon balm is a bushy, herbaceous plant that grows up to 70–150 cm tall. The leaves have a gentle lemon scent, related to mint. During summer, small white flowers full of nectar appear. It is not to be confused with bee balm species, or with the mint family, to which it belongs.

Uses

Lemon balm is often used in herbal medicine for its calming effects. It is also used in cooking for its lemon flavor, and in aromatherapy for its soothing scent.

Related Terms

External links

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