Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis — also: Melissa, Balm
Small trials suggest mild benefit for stress, sleep, and (topically) cold sores; gentle and pleasant.
A cherished medieval European 'gladdening' herb for the heart and nerves; long used for calm and digestion.
May modestly ease anxiety and improve sleep, especially combined with valerian; topical for cold sores (herpes simplex).
Rosmarinic acid and other compounds may modulate GABA and have antiviral activity topically.
- Mild calm and sleep support
- Topical cold-sore relief
Small RCTs for stress/sleep and topical HSV; effects mild.
- Small studies
- Best dose/combo unclear
- Drowsiness
- Possible thyroid effect at high doses
- People on sedatives or with thyroid disease without advice
Generally very low; possible drowsiness; theoretical thyroid effects at high doses.
May add to sedatives; theoretical thyroid-medication interaction.
Limited pregnancy data; caution with thyroid conditions.
Vigorous garden mint-family herb; dry leaves for tea or tincture fresh.
A gentle, lemony calmer — pairs well with valerian for sleep, and the topical helps cold sores.