Lemon Balm Tincture

Lemon Balm is the paramount medicinal plant for emotional detox, and has been used for centuries to "restore the joy of life to even the most melancholy" and alleviate stress and anxiety. This herb is used for menstrual cramps, urinary spasms, symptoms of PMS, nervous agitation, and functional gastrointestinal complaints, . Some have clained that it is said to improve memory and mental function. 

Lemon Balm has been used for thousands of years as a calmative that is good for all kinds of nervous problems, including tension headaches, migraines, neuralgia, hysteria, nervous tension, stress, anxiety, excitability and heart palpations. Studies have shown that when combined with Valerian root tincture, it improves sleep patterns and was comparable to the effectiveness of the prescription drug Halcion. It may be also be effective in treating Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD), easing such symptoms as inability to listen, fidgeting, inability to sustain attention and shifting from one incomplete task to another. It appears to relax muscle tension without daytime drowsiness. It has been useful for combatting cold sores, caused by herpes and is even said to prevent baldness. 

Lemon Balm was used as an old folk remedy for treating feverish patients. It promotes perspiration and cools the body by breaking a fever. It is especially helpful for treating the aches and fever of colds and flu. It is said to relieve bronchial catarrh and some forms of asthma. 

Lemon Balm is used in Europe for treating thyroid problems and is shown to have thyroid regulating action, which has been known to block the attachment of thyroid cells by antibodies that cause Graves' disease. This property of the herb along with its anti-viral characteristics have made it useful in the treatment of Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS. 

In the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, it shows great promise, it may even positively affect cognitive abilities, enhance memory and improve mental clarity. This effect may be due to its antioxidant content, which are thought to protect the body from damage caused by a chemical process called oxidation. Another small, but interesting, study used Lemon balm extract, in aromatherapy, to calm overexcited individuals suffering from dementia. Dementia is an increasing deficiency in thought processing, caused by brain damage, such as by stroke or diseases like Alzheimer's disease. 

Lemon Balm is effective in calming the digestive tract. It relieves dyspepsia, colic, gas, upset stomach, indigestion and stomach cramps. The herb has been used to relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), often stopping the spasms and relieving the pain and cramps associated with the disease. And although it is strong enough to ease spasms, it is not so strong as to cause constipation. It is thought that the volatile oils in Lemon balm contains chemicals that actually relax muscles, particularly in the bladder and stomach, thereby relieving cramps, gas and nausea.  

Lemon Balm's strong anti-viral properties and volatile oils have been known to destroy viruses in test tubes in as little as three hours, and this quality makes the herb especially helpful in combating cold sores, herpes virus infection. It is also thought to relieve the pain, itching, and sting of an outbreak. Topical use of Lemon Balm has been proven to speed the healing time of herpes simplex virus sores on the mouth and genitals, when applied externally in a cream or salve. At least part of this effect is due to the antiviral properties of caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid. Lemon Balm is an antibacterial and when used externally, it makes a fine poultice that has anti-putrescent effects and has been used as a surgical dressing. It is good for tumors, insect bites and stings, and it also cleanses sores and wounds on the body.

Ingredients: Lemon Balm and certified grain alcohol. 1:3 ratio

Suggested: Use 6-10 drops in juice, water, under the tongue or mixed with water or in tea. Shake well before using and may be taken 3 times daily. Keep out of reach of children.

Contraindications: Lemon Balm is mild, gentle, and safe for children. It is wise, however, not to take it concurrently with barbiturates for insomnia or anxiety, as it may increase their effects. With regard to the Essential Oil (only) of Lemon Balm, persons with glaucoma should not use.

Disclaimer: The information presented herein by Mountain Maus' Remedies is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any medicinal herbs or supplements, it is advisable to consult with your own health care provider.