Lemon balm is a perennial plant that is native to south-central Europe, Iran, and Central Asia. It is part of the mint family, and its leaves have a lemon scent. Its leaves have been used in herbal teas and extracts for their calming, sedative effects since AD 23. Lemon Balm is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and is used in health supplements today as a sleep and digestive aid.
Results of one study indicated that a specific combination product containing lemon balm seems to improve symptoms of dyspepsia (the combination includes lemon balm, peppermint leaf, chamomile, caraway, licorice, clown’s mustard plant, celandine, angelica, and milk thistle) (1).
A multicenter trial using a combination product with chamomile and other ingredients suggests that taking the mixture daily for up to 8 weeks eliminates gastrointestinal symptoms in 40% more dyspepsia patients compared with placebo (2).
REFERENCES
- Madisch A, Melderis H, Mayr G, et al. A plant extract and its modified preparation in functional dyspepsia: results of a double-blind placebo controlled comparative study. Z Gastroenterol. 2001;39(7):511-517.
- Madisch A, Holtmann G, Mayr G, et al. Treatment of functional dyspepsia with a herbal preparation. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial. Digestion 2004;69:45-52.
