Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a member of the mint family is a herb used since the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, and ease pain and discomfort associated with digestion (including flatulence and bloating as well as colic). It is also now suggested as a variety of other uses – for example, herpes. I have a big clump in my garden and it always overwinters well and leaves are available all year – used for companion planting Lemon Balm can protect other plants from insects. The leaves are very deeply wrinkled and range from dark green to yellowish green in colour (mine are quite yellow), depending on the soil and climate. If you rub your fingers on them, your fingers will smell tart and sweet, like lemons.
Several studies have found that lemon balm combined with other calming herbs (such as valerian) helps reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Few studies have investigated the safety and effectiveness of oral lemon balm alone, however. Herpes - Some studies suggest that topical ointments containing lemon balm may help heal lip sores associated with herpes simplex virus (HSV). In one study of 116 people with HSV, those who applied lemon balm cream to their lip sores experienced significant improvement in redness and swelling after only two days. Although other symptoms, (such as pain and scabbing) did not improve, both the patients and their physicians reported that the lemon balm ointment was highly effective. Several animal studies also support the value of topical lemon balm for herpes lesions.
Taking Lemon Balm
For difficulty sleeping, or to reduce stomach complaints, flatulence, or bloating, choose from the following:
· Tea: 1.5 to 4.5 grams of lemon balm herb, several times daily
· Tincture: 2 to 3 mL (40 to 90 drops), 3 times daily, or the equivalent in fluid extract or encapsulated form
For cold sores or herpes sores, steep 2 to 4 tsp of crushed leaf in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Cool. Apply tea with cotton balls to the sores throughout the day.
In the garden

LEMON BALM – Melissa officinalis
Very attractive to BEES so plant where bees are needed to pollinate other flowers
Makes a good liquid manure when steeped in rainwater and allowed to decompose
Special Note: Take a handful of chopped leaves and make an infusion in boiling water, allow to cool and soak area around plants