It is a member of the mint family and is very easy to grow.
It is a very beneficial herb having anti bacterial and anti viral and soothing properties.
It is believed to sharpen memory ,it is calming and uplifting, it has sedative and mood elevating properties
Crushed leaves can be rubbed on the skin to help repel insects.
Chew it to freshen breath
Make infused oil add enough olive oil to cover leaves, leave in a sunny warm place for several weeks then strain.
Salve
Using the infused oil and beeswax {1 part beeswax 2 parts oil ] warm the oil and beeswax, stir melt and combine.
Use on insect bites, wounds and cuts.
Make tea from the leaves its very relaxing
I love that lemon balm is attractive to bees
I also use lemon balm in my chicken pen to repel flies
Thanks for that. I am growing a lovely bunch and had no idea what to do with it other than tea (which i dont really drink having a very bad coffee habit). Should i pot some up to put in the pergola area during summer as fly repellant? Im going to try that oil infusing tomorrow. Cheers.
ReplyDeleteIm in process of putting a pot in my pergola Lynda so give it a go x
DeleteI have never used lemon balm as a herb Sharon but its a lovely plant that I like to grow in the garden.
ReplyDelete