Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an herb from the mint family that has a mild lemon aroma. It has been used for various purposes, including reducing stress and anxiety, promoting sleep, improving appetite, and easing pain and discomfort from indigestion. Some of the uses and benefits of lemon balm are:

• Stress relief: Lemon balm is widely considered to have calming properties and is prized for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety.

• Improved sleep: Lemon balm is often combined with other calming, soothing herbs, such as valerian, chamomile, and hops, to promote relaxation and improve sleep.

• Digestive health: Lemon balm may help treat indigestion, including gas and bloating, as well as colic. It may also relieve nausea and stomach upset.

• Cold sores: Lemon balm may be used topically to treat cold sores.

• Cognitive function: Some studies have found that lemon balm may help improve cognitive function and decrease agitation in people with Alzheimers disease.

• Mood improvement: Lemon balm has traditionally been used to improve mood and cognitive function. Research has shown that it may help to improve symptoms of depression in adults with depression and/or anxiety.

• Antibacterial activity: Lemon balm oil has a high degree of antibacterial activity and has shown adequate activity against Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus auerus.

Lemon balm is available as a dried leaf that can be bought in bulk, as tea, and in capsules, extracts, tinctures, and oil. It can also be used topically to treat cold sores and is available in homeopathic remedies and as aromatherapy (essential oil) . However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support many of the uses of lemon balm.