Tuesday, January 15, 2008

How to Heal With Lemon Balm

Introduction

Lemon Balm, which won the International Herb Association's 2007 Herb of the Year, is recognized by its distinct lemon smell. Not only does lemon balm repel mosquitoes, it can be grown to remedy a host of maladies ranging from stress to digestive problems. Lemon Balm can also be used to aid in a good night's sleep.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Ease anxiety and improve your mood with a low dose of lemon balm. To improve sleep, try a higher dose. Enjoy lemon balm as a calming tea.
2

Step Two

Apply a topical application of lemon balm to treat cold sores. If treated early, cold sores diminish faster when a lemon balm cream is used. While it doesn't prevent cold sores, lemon balm speeds the healing process.
3

Step Three

Mix 150 to 450 mg of lemon balm per cup of tea to help ease indigestion. If you are pregnant or nursing, be sure to consult with a physician before consuming lemon balm. Likewise, people with thyroid problems should also talk to their doctor.

Tips & Warnings

  • Lemon balm can be used many ways, including creams, extracts, in prepared dishes or simply for aromatic purposes.
  • Make lemon balm tea by adding a handful of leaves to 1 cup of boiling water. Let steep for at least five minutes.
  • Enjoy a restorative lemon balm bath by placing the leaves in a muslin bag and running it under warm water.

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