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Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family, native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. The leaves have a slight lemon scent to them, and it bears small white to pink flowers. It can grow to approximately two feet high. Bees and butterflies are very attracted to the nectar of the flowers, which can help your garden flourish though pollination. Lemon balm or Melissa is used as flavoring in desserts such as ice cream but is primarily used in herbal teas. Lemon balm is commonly blended with other herbs to make a very refreshing iced tea. Lemon balm or Melissa herbal tea is claimed to have some antibacterial and antiviral uses. It can also be used as a mild sedative. There have been studies that show it to be effective in reducing stress, although the studies are still inconclusive. The antibacterial qualities have been scientifically proven, however they are much less effective than a number of other options. The leaves can be used as an mosquito repellant when they are crushed and rubbed on the skin.
