Lemon Balm: Sunshine in a Cup (Simple Tea Recipe)
Did You Know? 🍋
“Did you know lemon balm was once called the gladdening herb?”
This cheerful little plant doesn’t just smell like sunshine—it feels like it too. From calming nerves to supporting sleep, lemon balm has been treasured for centuries as one of nature’s gentlest remedies.
A Little History
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. In ancient Greece, it was dedicated to the goddess Artemis and used to attract bees (the word Melissa actually means “honeybee”). Medieval monks planted it in monastery gardens for both medicine and mead-making. Herbalists throughout Europe called it the “gladdening herb” because of its uplifting effect on mood and spirit.
Why We Still Use It Today
Modern herbalists love lemon balm because it’s:
Calming to the nervous system — helps with restlessness and stress.
Supportive for sleep — often used as a bedtime tea.
Gentle on digestion — eases mild cramping and upset stomach, especially stress-related.
Naturally uplifting — its citrus scent alone can lift the mood.
It’s safe, simple, and incredibly versatile—one of those herbs I believe every home apothecary should have.
🍵 Simple Lemon Balm Tea Recipe
This is one of the easiest ways to enjoy lemon balm.
Ingredients:
2 tsp dried lemon balm (or a small handful of fresh leaves)
1 cup hot water
Instructions:
Steep leaves in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Strain and sip.
✨ Enjoy before bed for relaxation or mid-day for a calming pick-me-up.
Why I Love It
Lemon balm is one of those herbs that feels like it was made just to comfort us. Whether I’m sipping a cup of tea or just rubbing a fresh leaf between my fingers, it always makes me pause and breathe a little deeper.
Sources
Bone, K., & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Churchill Livingstone.
Gladstar, R. (2001). Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. Storey Publishing.
Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism. Healing Arts Press.
