Its scientific name is Nocaton, but everyone knows it by its sweeter and sweeter name than lemon balm. This plant native to Turkey is typical of the countries of the Mediterranean area, where it grows preferring cool and shady places, although it seems to have also spread to some areas of central-eastern Europe.
With oval, reticular and toothed leaves, the lemon balm it comes in multiple stems, between 30 and 70 centimeters high, and is recognizable thanks to its characteristic scent similar to that of lemon.
A relaxing plant
The sedative properties lemon balm, capable of:
- release tension
- reduce stress
- relieve anxiety and nervousness
For this reason it is often hired in herbal teas, to recover a state of relaxation especially after a busy day of work and is also combined with chamomile and fennel-based drinks to accompany the sweet sleep of children.
A natural remedy for insomnia, lemon balm is consumed in the form of infusions also accompanied by valerian and it also appears to have the ability to relieve headaches. It also has a moderate antidepressant action.
Antispasmodic properties of lemon balm
Between the benefits of lemon balm there are his antispasmodic properties: this plant in fact facilitates digestion and calms abdominal cramps, reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. In particular, thelemon balm essential oil, if taken after meals, stimulates gastric activity, relaxing the stomach walls.
Precisely for his carminative properties, lemon balm is also used to remedy:
- flautulenza
- abdominal colic
- discomfort in the intestinal tract
Lemon balm is good for the heart
L'calming action of lemon balm it has also been studied on the heart, being able to give the right heart rhythm. Regulates blood pressure and has beneficial effects on the circulatory system.
It also has beneficial properties on the activity of the thyroid and carries out a rebalancing activity of the hormonal system, very useful for problems related to menopause.
In this context, however, lemon balm can have contraindications: if on the one hand it can be useful for people suffering from hyperthyroidism, on the other it reduces the activity of the gland. And it is also for these effects that it is not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
A further contraindication concerns those suffering from glaucoma: even in this case it is not recommended to take it, as lemon balm would increase eye pressure.
