Lemon Balm Tea Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon Balm Tea: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

What is Lemon Balm Tea?

Lemon balm is a tea made from the leaves of the lemon balm plant, a perennial herb that's part of the mint family. The leaves of the lemon balm plant, which have a lemony aroma and a bright citrus flavor, can be used to make traditional medicine. Lemon balm tea can be used on its own or synergistically with other herbs.

How to Make Lemon Balm Tea

You can make your own lemon balm tea with these easy-to-follow steps:

  • Finely chop about 1/4 cup lemon balm leaves
  • Heat about a cup of water in the microwave, on the stove, or in a kettle until it's boiling
  • Pour the boiling water over the leaves
  • You can add a drizzle of honey to taste

Enjoy a cup of warm lemon balm tea as part of your daily routine, as it can have some amazing benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Lemon Balm Tea?

Drinking lemon balm tea regularly is thought to have a number of benefits. Here's a quick overview of some of these benefits:

Note: the Frontier Co-op team recommends checking with your doctor before using any supplements.

  • Promote a sense of calm: Do you enjoy relaxing with a cup of hot tea at the end of a stressful day? If you make that a cup of lemon balm tea, it may help you relax and unwind even more. Studies show that lemon balm can reduce everyday stress when used regularly.
  • Get a Better Night’s Sleep: When you don't get a great night's sleep, it can ruin your whole day. Because of its calming effect, lemon balm tea may be a great addition to your bedtime routine. 

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, there are also health benefits associated with lemon balm that’s not in tea form. For example, did you know you can use lemon balm leaves to add a unique flavor to salads? You can also find lemon balm capsules and oils in some health food stores. Regularly consuming lemon balm may have added health benefits, including:

  • May help to relieve nausea: Nausea and indigestion can cause discomfort and even pain. A bit of lemon balm may help to soothe sore tummies, which makes it a great remedy for both kids and adults. Note: Check with your child’s pediatrician before giving your little ones lemon balm.
  • Ease menstrual cramps: Females who deal with cramps as a PMS symptom can tell you that they can range from uncomfortable to downright debilitating. While lemon balm may not alleviate cramps entirely, in some cases, it can lessen the intensity.
  • Headache Relief: If you experience tension headaches, lemon balm may help to take the edge off the pain and help relieve some of the tension.
  • May reduce inflammation: Inflammation is thought to be at the root of many chronic conditions and illnesses. While there is limited research, some studies show lemon balm may help to reduce inflammation with its antioxidant properties.

If you experience any of these issues and are looking for a natural solution, add some lemon balm to your shopping list (after you check with your doctor)! Lemon balm tea is a popular kind of tea bag that you can find for sale online and in stores. Buddha Teas Lemon Balm Organic Herbal Tea Bags or Traditional Medicinals Organic Lemon Balm Tea Bags are convenient options to get your daily dose of lemon balm.

Lemon Balm Tea Potential Side Effects

Like any supplement, side effects can vary based on the individual.  Before using any herbal tea, Frontier Co-op recommends consulting your doctor or healthcare practitioner.