Organic Lemon Balm Leaves for Herbal Tea — A Lemon-Scented Plant from the European Herbalist Tradition

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), also known as balm mint or bee balm, is a perennial plant in the Lamiaceae family that is widely cultivated throughout Europe. Its leaves, with their characteristic lemon scent, make it one of the most popular herbal teas in family herbalism. Herberry offers certified organic dried lemon balm leaves.

Botanical Description

Melissa officinalis is a perennial herbaceous plant that can reach 40 to 80 cm. Its oval, slightly serrated, and wrinkled leaves are a bright green and immediately release a very characteristic lemon aroma when crushed. The small, whitish flowers appear from June to August and attract bees — hence the Greek name melissa (bee). The plant is very easy to grow and can be invasive in gardens.

The leaves contain an essential oil rich in citral (geranial and neral), citronellal, and linalool, as well as phenolic acids (significant amounts of rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid), flavonoids, and triterpenes.

Aroma and Flavor Profile

Lemon balm infusion creates a liqueur that is slightly golden to greenish, depending on the concentration. Its aroma is lively, lemony, fresh, and pleasant. On the palate, the flavor is mild, lemony, and slightly herbaceous, with very little bitterness. It is one of the easiest herbal teas to enjoy, even for those not accustomed to herbal infusions. It pairs perfectly with verbena, lavender, or chamomile.

How to Prepare the Infusion

• Quantity: 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves (about 1.5 to 2 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, about 90°C (do not boil, to preserve the volatile aromas)
• Infusion: 5 to 8 minutes, covered
• Strain and enjoy lukewarm
• Frequency: 2 to 3 cups per day

Composition

Precautions for Use

• Not recommended for people suffering from thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's disease) without medical advice — lemon balm may interfere with thyroid hormones
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice
• Not recommended for children under 6 years old
• If you are taking sedative or thyroid medication, consult a doctor before consumption
• Do not exceed the recommended amounts
• Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Is Herberry's organic lemon balm certified?

Yes, these lemon balm leaves are certified organic, free from pesticides or synthetic chemical inputs.

What is the difference between lemon balm and lemon verbena?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, Lamiaceae family) and lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora, Verbenaceae family) are two distinct plants with a similar lemon scent. Verbena is often more intense and refined; lemon balm is more herbaceous and slightly mentholated. Their phytochemical compositions differ.

Can fresh lemon balm be used instead of dried lemon balm?

Yes, fresh lemon balm from the garden can be used in an infusion (double the amount compared to dried). Dried lemon balm, however, is more practical and stores better. Note that drying may slightly change the aroma profile.

How should I store my bag of lemon balm?

Keep away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Close the bag tightly after use to preserve the volatile lemon aromas. Consume preferably within 12 months.

Discover other Herberry herbal teas: See the full Herberry range