Lemon Balm

What Is Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean and a member of the mint family. In Turkish, it is also known as oğulotu or simply melisa; its soft, serrated green leaves release a distinct lemon scent when rubbed.

Its name comes from the flowers’ ability to strongly attract bees (Latin “melissa”); it is grown in gardens both as a culinary herb and as a bee plant.

Lemon Balm Nutrition Facts

A detailed nutrient table for lemon balm could not be verified from reliable public sources under this encyclopedia’s standards, so this section has intentionally been left blank. Since it is generally consumed as tea or in small amounts as a garnish, its practical contribution to daily nutrition is also limited.

What Are the Benefits of Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm is traditionally consumed to make a soothing herbal tea; research into its compounds is ongoing, but the findings have not yet become a definitive health recommendation.

This is general information; lemon balm is an herb, not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult a health professional before consuming herbal tea during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

How to Choose Lemon Balm

Fresh lemon balm should have bright green, unwilted leaves that give off a distinct lemon scent when rubbed.

• Leaves should be bright green; yellowed or darkened edges indicate loss of freshness.
• A clear lemon scent when rubbed is a sign of aroma intensity.
• The stems should look firm and moist, not dried out.

How to Store Lemon Balm

Fresh lemon balm can be wrapped in a damp paper towel and stored in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. For longer-term use, dry the leaves and keep them in a sealed jar for months as tea material.

How to Use Lemon Balm in the Kitchen

Lemon balm is most often consumed as an herbal tea; fresh leaves are also used in fruit salads, lemonade, cakes, and as cocktail garnishes.

How to Brew Lemon Balm Tea

Steep fresh or dried leaves in boiled water that has been allowed to cool slightly for 5–7 minutes; water that is too hot can drive off the delicate lemon aroma.

How to Use Lemon Balm in Desserts

Finely chopped fresh leaves add a refreshing lemon note to fruit salad, ice cream, and cake fillings.

What Recipes Use Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm is used in herbal tea blends, lemonade, fruit salad, and some cocktail recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lemon balm and oğulotu the same plant?

Yes; oğulotu is the traditional Turkish name for lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and both names refer to the same plant.

Does lemon balm tea contain caffeine?

No. Lemon balm tea is naturally caffeine-free, so it is among the herbal teas that can also be consumed in the evening.

What is the difference between lemon balm and mint?

Both plants belong to the mint family, but lemon balm has a distinct lemon aroma, while mint has a menthol-like, cooling flavor; both plants also have different-looking leaves.

Is fresh or dried lemon balm more aromatic?

Fresh leaves have a brighter, sharper lemon aroma; drying softens the aroma somewhat but allows for longer storage.

How do you grow lemon balm?

It grows easily in sunny or partially shaded areas with well-drained soil; because it is a perennial, it sprouts again each year after it is planted once.