Do you need ideas for herbal drinks that can help you cope with stress while being caffeine free? Lemon balm is the perfect plant for you, as it is one of the most beneficial plants that you should not miss out on.
This fresh smelling herbal plant is not just used for decoration and gardening but also can help improve your sleep quality and calm the mind from anxiety and stress.
So, let’s explore more about the definition and how to make tea, along with its benefits, recipes, and smart tips you should know.
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) originates from Southern Europe and is well known as the sunshine herb. It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is usually used in beauty products and aromatherapy because of its fresh and soft mint aroma.
Lemon balm is a smart choice as a healthy ingredient that does not contain caffeine. This plant can be brewed fresh or dried as tea and processed into herbal medicine, syrup, culinary mixtures, and more.
Lemon balm is known as a nervine because its distinctive aroma and mild flavor can improve mood and calm the nervous system.
Several studies and articles have examined how lemon balm extract can help reduce mild anxiety, stimulate calmness, and boost mood amid your activities and rest time.
The relaxing effects of lemon balm can decrease cortisol levels and reduce stress induced cravings. Drinking herb sufficiently can help you be more aware while eating and also help with natural weight management.
It has traditionally been used to help reduce gas or bloating after eating and relieve other digestive problems such as mild nausea, stomach discomfort, and intestinal cramps.
The leaves of this plant act as a natural herbal detox drink that supports liver function in eliminating toxins. Its active ingredients can help cleanse and keep organs healthy.
The calming effects of lemon balm tea, especially when drinking at night, can help you to increase better sleep quality.
Lemon balm is also perfect to maintain brain health. Many studies have mentioned the benefits of this herb plant in helping to improve cognitive function that specifically enhances your memory and concentration better.
Lemon balm is also used to support the body’s metabolic system by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Rosmarinic acid combined with the essential oils in lemon balm contain antioxidant and mild antiviral properties that help protect cells. These combinations also support fat burning that is suitable for natural diet programs.
What you need to prepare is a tablespoon of dried leaves or a pinch of fresh leaves, 250–300 ml of hot water, but not boiling, and a little lemon or honey.
After you prepare the tool and ingredients, heat the water to approximately 90–95°C, then add the leaves to a cup or a teapot.
Pour in the hot water, cover, and let it steep for 5–10 minutes to strengthen the fresh aroma, then strain the leaves and add honey or lemon for a more delicious taste. It can be served warm in the evening or as a refreshing cold drink on a hot day.
Also read: Benefits Peppermint Tea You Should Know
Lemon balm can be used in various drinks and foods. You can try to make a syrup by infusing leaves mixed with honey, then store it in a bottle into cold drinks.
You can also make mixed with added ginger or mint to support digestion and natural diet programs. Other variations, such as green tea, provide energy, cucumber helps with flat tummy effects, and cinnamon helps stabilize blood sugar.
Besides tea, lemon balm is also often used in jams, salads, fish dishes, honey, and herbal drinks. With its soft aroma and fresh taste, this kind of herb tea goes well with lavender, rose petals, or peppermint.
Use fresh leaves for a more pungent aroma and flavor. To maintain their quality, keep the dried leaves in a cool, dark place.
Avoid excessive consumption, as it may cause tiredness or indigestion. So, consult your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a thyroid disorder to avoid any unwanted things happening.
Making lemon balm tea is not just about the fresh taste but also a simple way to reap the essential benefits mentioned above. With easy and quick instructions, a warm cup of tea helps make your daily routine more balanced in physical and mental health.
