Melissa Officinalis - lemon balm

Melissa Officinalis, also known as a lemon balm, is a herbaceous plant from the family of the lip flower (Lamiaceae). This plant is located in Europe and the Mediterranean and is not only characterized by its pleasant lemon aroma, but also by its diverse uses in phytotherapy.

Botanical characteristics

Melissa Officinalis is a multi -year plant that can achieve growth heights of 30 to 90 centimeters. It is characterized by opposite, egg -shaped leaves that are roughly serrated on the edges. The leaves are hairy and exude a pleasant lemon scent when touched, which gave the plant its name. The flowers of Melissa Officinalis are small, white to yellowish and arranged in dense, ear -like inflorescences. The plant blooms in summer and attracts bees and other pollinators.

Chemical characteristics

The special chemical composition of Melissa Officinalis is a key feature that contributes to its pharmacological importance. The plant contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including essential oils, flavonoids, triterpenes, rosemary acid and other polyphenols. The main etheric oil in the lemon balm mainly consists of monoterpenes such as citronellal, citral, lime and geraniol. These connections give the plant their characteristic lemon aroma and contribute to the pharmacological effect.

Pharmacological meaning

Melissa Officinalis has a long history of use in traditional medicine due to its diverse health benefits. Some of the most important pharmacological effects and applications of lemon balm are:

Calming and reducing stress

The plant has calming properties and is often used to relieve stress, anxiety and sleep disorders. The ingredients contained in the lemon balm can influence the activity of the nervous system and promote relaxation.

Digestive effect

Melissa Officinalis can be helpful for gastrointestinal complaints, including flatulence and digestive disorders. The plant is often used as a tea or extract to relieve symptoms in the digestive tract.

Antiviral properties

Some studies indicate that lemon balm has antiviral properties against herpes simplex viruses. This has led to their use in the treatment of lip herpes.

Antioxidant effect

The polyphenols and flavonoids contained in the plant act as antioxidants and can help to reduce cell damage by free radicals.

Improvement of cognitive function

Some research work suggests that lemon balm can improve cognitive performance and memory.

Melissa Officinalis is often used in the form of teas, tinctures, essential oils or capsules. It is important to note that the dosage and application should take place carefully, since high doses can lead to calming and sleepiness.