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Lemon Balm
Latin Name: Melissa Officinalis Family: Labiatae |
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Climate range.................................. Aspect range.................................... Mature height................................... Mature width.................................... Special purpose............................... Foliage type..................................... Soil Type.......................................... Propagation..................................... Sow-Plant........................................ Space Apart..................................... Flowering Season............................ Flower Color.................................... |
Warm, Temperate, Cool Full sun, Half sun 5' 2' Medicinal, Culinary Perennial Well drained Seed, Plant Spring 2' Late Summer White, Yellow, Pale Blue |
COMMENTS:
This bushy herb has square stems, lemon scented foliage, and late summer flowers that mature from white or yellow to pale blue.
Uses: Fresh leaves add a delicate flavor to many dishes, oils , vinegars, and liquers, provide a relaxing bath, soothe insect bites, and make a sedative and tonic tea. This tea has a reputation for giving longevivity and soothes headaches, indigestion, and nausea. Extracts of lemon-balm are antiviral and help clean and heal wounds by starving bacteria of oxygen. The refreshing, antidepressant essential oil helps some eczema and allergy sufferers. It attracts bees, and if rubbed on empty hives will attract new tenants. For more plants to attact bees and butterflies.
Caution: Inhibits thyroid gland so use with caution if you have thyroid problems.
Dosage: 2-3 tsp/ 1 cup water. Steep 10-15 minutes 3 x day.
NOTE: The links above will take you to products for that condition. You may also like to see the articles on Essential Oils, Cold & Flu Recipes.
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