Melissa officinalis, commonly known simply as melissa, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family of Lamiaceae.
It is known and appreciated since ancient times for its numerous medicinal properties and its pleasant citrus aroma. This characteristic perfume has also given her the nickname of “cedronella”. The most used parts of the plant for therapeutic and culinary purposes are mainly the leaves, but also the flowers and stems, which are preferably harvested before or during flowering, when the plant reaches its maximum aromatic and therapeutic potential.
The therapeutic properties of melissa
In phytotherapy, melissa is appreciated above all for its calming and sedative properties. It is often used to treat states of nervousness, anxiety and stress, thanks to its ability to act as a natural relaxant of the nervous system. Over the centuries, it has been widely used in traditional medicine, with particular attention to disorders of psychic and nervous origin. One of the historically best known uses of melissa has been in the preparation of spirit of melissa, a kind of tonic also called “anti-hysterical water”, particularly effective to calm nervousness in young women and relieve disorders related to hysteria, Term used in the past to describe various mental and physical conditions.
Melissa is considered a “plant of Venus” according to the signature theory, an ancient conception that linked medicinal plants to astrological influences. In this case, Venus was associated with the female sphere, and melissa was considered particularly suitable for treating typical women’s disorders, such as amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea, especially when these were caused by psychic factors, stress or hyperexcitability.
Melissa and digestive health
In addition to its benefits on the nervous system, melissa is widely recognized for its digestive virtues. Its leaves are used to prepare infusions that can help soothe disorders such as dyspepsia, poor digestion and abdominal swelling. Thanks to its antispasmodic properties, lemon balm is also useful for relieving abdominal cramps and colic. It is particularly indicated to treat nausea associated with states of stress or anxiety, providing a double benefit both at the digestive and nervous levels.
The use of melissa in herbal tradition
The use of melissa in folk medicine dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was particularly appreciated in monasteries and convents for its healing properties. It was used for the preparation of teas, decoctions and cataplasms intended for the treatment of various physical and mental disorders. Over the centuries, lemon balm has remained one of the favorite herbs for herbalists and phytotherapists, due to its versatility and beneficial effects on different organs and systems of the human body.
Among its most common uses is the preparation of thirst-quenching infusions. These pleasantly citrusy infusions are not only refreshing, but also have a calming effect on the nervous system, making them ideal for taking during stressful moments or at the end of a busy day. Lemon balm is also used as an ingredient in various culinary preparations, especially in kitchens that prefer the use of fresh herbs.
Other uses and curiosity
Beyond its therapeutic use, melissa also finds space in natural cosmetics and the preparation of home remedies. Lemon balm essential oil, for example, is used for its relaxing properties in aromatherapy, and can be diffused into the environment or added to a hot bath to promote relaxation and improve mood. Because of its antiviral properties, it is sometimes also used to treat skin problems such as cold sores.
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