Melissa officinalis

What is Melissa officinalis?

Melissa officinalis is a perennial herbaceous plant, native to Europe and Western Asia, belonging to the family Lamiaceae.

It has a height of 60-90 cm, with a square stem, and leaves that are ovate-lanceolate in shape, measuring 3-7 cm in length and 1-3 cm in width, with a crenate margin, and a fragrance of lemon balm. The plant produces flowers in late summer, with a pinkish-lilac color, in whorls of 6-8, and a corolla with a 4-lobed upper lip and a 3-lobed lower lip. The calyx is 3-4 mm in length, with 5 sepals that are lanceolate in shape.

The fruit is a nutlet, 2-3 mm in length, and contains 4 seeds.

What ailments can you heal with this herb?

The most common ailments you can heal with Melissa officinalis are anxiety, stress and insomnia, which are effectively alleviated by its adaptogenic properties.

Melissa officinalis has also been shown to treat digestive issues by enhancing digestion and reducing inflammation, while also providing relief from gastroesophageal reflux disease due to its antispasmodic effects. Its antiemetic properties make it an effective remedy for nausea, and its analgesic properties help alleviate chronic pain and menstrual cramps. Furthermore, Melissa officinalis has been proven to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis, and its vasodilatory properties help lower hypertension.

Additionally, it has been used to treat depression, menopausal symptoms, skin issues, sleep disorders, muscle spasms, hiccups, migraines, and irritability due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties.

What are the therapeutic properties this herb?

The main therapeutic properties of Melissa officinalis are its antioxidant properties, which can be attributed to its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, enabling the plant to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress.

The plant also exhibits antimicrobial properties, thanks to the presence of volatile oils, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of various microorganisms. Additionally, Melissa officinalis possesses anti-inflammatory properties, mediated by its flavonoids and saponins, which can modulate the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines. Furthermore, the plant has antispasmodic properties, allowing it to relax smooth muscle and reduce spasms, possibly due to the action of its volatile oils and flavonoids on calcium channels.

Finally, Melissa officinalis has anxiolytic properties, attributed to the sedative and calming effects of its essential oils, particularly linalool, which can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

What are the medicinal constituents this herb?

The most important healing constituents of Melissa officinalis are rosmarinic acid, apigenin, luteolin, limonene, and linalool.

Rosmarinic acid exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which contribute to its wound-healing and antiseptic effects. Apigenin and luteolin are flavonoids that have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, thereby protecting against cell damage and promoting tissue repair. Limonene and linalool, both terpenes, have been found to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.

The combination of these constituents in Melissa officinalis may contribute to its traditional uses in treating skin conditions, wounds, and respiratory issues.

What are the main herbal preparations this herb?

The main herbal preparations of Melissa officinalis are used to leverage its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Melissa tea is a popular preparation made by infusing the leaves in hot water, traditionally used to alleviate stress and anxiety. Melissa tincture, a concentrated liquid extract, is often used to support the immune system and promote sleep. Melissa oil, obtained through steam distillation, is used in aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and improve mood, while melissa syrup is a sweet preparation used to treat respiratory issues and soothe sore throats.

Additionally, melissa infusion, a concentrated liquid made by steeping the leaves in water, is used to support digestive health and reduce inflammation.

What are the possible side effects of using this herb improperly?

The possible side effects of using Melissa officinalis improperly include interacting with medications such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and sedatives, which can lead to adverse reactions like increased bleeding risk, low blood sugar, and excessive drowsiness.

Overdosing on Melissa officinalis can cause liver damage and may lead to more severe outcomes like liver failure. Moreover, individuals may experience allergic reactions such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing due to the presence of volatile oils like citral and linalool. The herb contains compounds that can induce liver damage, particularly when combined with other hepatotoxic substances or in large doses.

Additionally, liver damage can also occur due to the herb's potential to inhibit the activity of certain liver enzymes, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions.