Soothe Anxiety Away: The Utilization of Lemon Balm as a Calming Agent
Lemon balm, a small creeping plant native to the Mediterranean region, has gained attention for its potential in addressing anxiety. This mint family member, scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, contains natural compounds such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids that are believed to be responsible for its anxiolytic effects.
Before incorporating lemon balm into a routine for anxiety management, it is crucial to consult a health professional. This is especially important for those taking any over-the-counter or prescription drugs or other herbal supplements, as combining lemon balm may have unforeseen interactions.
When taken as a supplement, lemon balm is generally safe at doses of 500 mg per day for no more than 4 to 6 months. Consuming lemon balm in food should pose no problems. The anxiety-reducing influence of lemon balm may be noticeable within an hour, with effects lasting about 4 to 8 hours.
Lemon balm is available in various formulations, including syrups, bath products, salves, steams, and more. Suggested preparations and dosing include aromatherapy, tea, capsules, tinctures, and extracts. Combining lemon balm with other herbal remedies like valerian, lavender, passionflower, and ashwagandha might provide additional anxiety relief.
Studies suggest that lemon balm may be helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms by elevating mood and reducing levels of stress hormones. A 2021 review of existing studies found that anxiety and depression in study participants were significantly alleviated by lemon balm as compared to a placebo.
However, it's important to note that lemon balm may interact with several medications, including antidepressants, benzodiazepines, glaucoma medication, thyroid medication, HIV medication, diabetes medication, and others. It's recommended that you only therapeutically use lemon balm intermittently for short periods of time, and not combine it with alcohol use.
Lemon balm should be avoided if pregnant, breastfeeding, have a history of seizures, or are going in for surgery soon. External application of lemon balm is fine for adults. Common side effects of lemon balm include increased appetite, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, wheezing, headache, painful urination, increased body temperature, vomiting, stomach upset or pain, skin irritation (for topical applications), withdrawal, and more.
In addition to its potential as an anxiety remedy, lemon balm has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce feelings of stress and tension. It can be used fresh or dried in food and medicinal preparations, and is available in forms such as teas, supplement pills, essential oil, and as a plant or seeds for growing.
Anxiety is a general term for experiencing a range of fears or worry-based reactions to stressful situations. Symptoms include worrying about the future, feeling on edge, trouble concentrating, and rapid breathing. If you're experiencing these symptoms, consider discussing lemon balm as a potential addition to your anxiety management plan with a health professional.
An animal study from February 2022 found that lemon balm has the potential to help with the physical effects of anxiety, such as calming various gastrointestinal and heart-related tissues. Lemon balm is believed to work by inhibiting certain brain chemicals and boosting calmness.
In conclusion, while lemon balm presents a promising natural remedy for anxiety, it's essential to approach its use with caution and under the guidance of a health professional. With proper dosing and consideration of potential interactions, lemon balm may provide a valuable addition to a comprehensive plan for addressing anxiety.
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