Organic Herb Lemon Balm (p)

Lemon Balm
melissa officinalis
Approx. 1600 seeds per gram

This easy to grow perennial herb gives off a beautiful lemon scent. It forms a small bush of around 60cm in height. It belongs to the labiatae family like mint, rosemary, and thyme. The small white flowers are loved by bees, in fact the Latin name Melissa is the Greek word for honey bee. The herb was often planted around bee hives and in orchards to attract the pollinating insects. Lemon balm was also used as a strewing herb releasing its wonderful uplifting aroma when crushed underfoot. This easy to grow perennial herb likes a well drained soil and a sunny position.

How to grow:
Sow seed in well prepared ground from March until June. It can be slow to germinate but once the seedlings have established thin the plants to small clumps at a distance of 60cm.

Pests and diseases:
Lemon balm is very hardy and does not suffer from much in the way of pests or diseases.

How to use:
The leaves are best harvested just before the flowers appear in Summer. After that the quality and freshness of the leaves diminishes. Dry them by hanging bunches in a warm airy place and then strip the leaves from the stem and store in airtight containers.  Lemon balm leaves make a refreshing tea, use a couple of teaspoons of leaf per cup of boiling water, infuse for at least five minutes, strain and sweeten with honey  if liked. Leaves can be chopped and added to fruit salad, Pimms and other summer drinks. The herb can be made into a natural insect repellent or a salve to treat cold sores. The essential oil is made from the flowering tops and is used to relieve tension, stress and anxiety.