Melissa
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Melissa Botanical binomial: Melissa officinalis Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae) Other names: Lemon balm, sweet balm, honeyplant, heart’s delight Country of Origin: Europe Part of plant used in production: Leaves and tops of herb Methods of production: Steam distillation |
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| Description: |
A sweet-scented bushy herb with serrated leaves and tiny white or pink flowers. Three tonnes of plant material is required to yield 0.5 L of oil. |
| Characteristics: |
A warm, floral-herbaceous, lemon-like scent is emitted from the colourless oil. |
| Properties: |
Antidepressant, antispasmodic, bactericidal, carminative, cordial, diaphoretic, emmenogogue, febrifuge, hypotensive, nervine, sedative, stomachic, sudorific, tonic. |
| Constituents: |
Geranial (1-48%), neral (0.6-36%), citronellal (2-38%), linalool (0.5-3%), geranyl acetate (trace-6%), geraniol (trace-23%), caryophyllene (0.3-29%). |
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Uses: |
Melissa’s antiviral properties are used to treat herpes, smallpox, mumps and influenza. It may be used to settle upset stomachs, nausea and indigestion. It is uplifting acting as an antidepressant. |
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Blends well with: |
Bergamot, cedarwood, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lemon, sweet marjoram, neroli, rose, ylang-ylang. |
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Interesting Facts: |
The name Melissa comes from the Greek “honey bee” referring to the bee’s attraction to its flower and the quality of honey produced from it. It was called the ‘elixir of life’ by Paracelsus being used for nervous disorders, the heart and emotions. |
| Safety: |
Non-toxic, possibly sensitizing and a dermal irritant. Best used in small doses. |