I still remember the first time I tasted lemon balm teaâit was a chilly evening, and my grandmother handed me a warm cup, saying, “This will soothe your nerves and help you sleep like a baby.” I took my first sip, skeptical but interested. The light citrus scent and mild minty taste made me feel better right away. I slept better that night than in weeks..
Did you know that medieval beekeepers planted lemon balm around hives to keep bees from swarming? Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis which comes from the Greek words for “honey bee”) is a mint-family plant, has been used to calm animals of all sizes since ancient times. Today, its lemony leaves are used to make a tea that is popular on TikTok as the best way to “de-stress.” But does this herb that has been used for 2,000 years really help with sleep, nervousness, and weight loss? Let us separate myths from facts.
What is Lemon Balm Tea?
Lemon balm tea is a caffeine-free herbal infusion made from the fresh or dried leaves of the lemon balm plant. With its bright citrus aroma and subtle mint undertones, this golden-hued tea has been used across cultures:
- Ancient Greece:Â Physicians used it to treat nervousness and help wounds heal..
- Middle Ages:Â âCarmelite waterâ (a lemon balm tonic) was Europeâs go-to stress reliever.
- Modern Day:Â Research highlights its potential antiviral and mood-boosting properties.
Lemon balm tea doesn’t have any tannin like green or black tea does, so it’s good for stomachs that are sensitive.
Lemon Balm Tea for Weight Loss
One of the lesser-known benefits of lemon balm tea is that it might help you lose weight. Lemon balm tea isn’t a magic solution, but it can help you live a healthier life by helping with things like stress and digestion that can make you gain weight.
How Lemon Balm Tea Supports Weight Loss:
- Lessens Cravings Caused by Stress: Long-term stress can make you eat unhealthy foods out of feeling. Lemon balm tea helps calm the mind, which means you eat less when you’re stressed.
- Helps Digest: Lemon balm has mild carminative qualities that can ease digestive pain and improve gut health, which is important for keeping a healthy weight.
- Boost Your Hydration: Staying hydrated is important for keeping your metabolism and hunger in check. If you want to stay hydrated without adding extra calories, switch from sugary drinks to lemon balm tea.
Even though lemon balm tea won’t help you lose weight by itself, adding it to a healthy diet and busy lifestyle can help.
Where to Buy Lemon Balm Tea
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Lemon Balm Tea Recipe
Equipment
- Small saucepan (for boiling water)
- Tea strainer or infuser (if using fresh/dried leaves)
- Teapot or heatproof cup
- Spoon (for stirring)
Ingredients
- 1 cup 240ml water
- 1-2 tsp dried lemon balm leaves or 5-6 fresh leaves
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup optional
- 1 tsp lemon juice optional, for extra citrus flavor
- 1 small piece of ginger optional, for a spicy twist
Instructions
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add lemon balm leaves to a teapot or cup.
- Pour the hot water over the leaves and let them steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup if using loose leaves.
- Add honey, lemon juice, or ginger if desired. Stir well.
- Enjoy your warm, relaxing cup of lemon balm tea!
Notes
â Add peppermint or chamomile for extra relaxation.
â Enjoy it iced by cooling and serving with ice cubes.
â Use coconut sugar instead of honey for a vegan option.
â Drink before bed to improve sleep quality.
Benefits of Lemon Balm Tea
- Reduces Anxiety and Stress:Â This is probably its most well-known benefit. Researchers have found that lemon balm can make people feel a lot less anxious and calmer.
- Improves Sleep Quality:Â Lemon balm’s calming benefits can help you fall asleep faster and sleep better at night.
- Boosts Cognitive Function:Â Studies show that lemon balm may help with memory, focus, and attention.
- Supports Digestive Health: Lemon balm tea can help soothe digestive upset, reduce bloating, and ease indigestion.
- May Help Manage Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): S⢠It ntioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by fhas aree radicals. Lemon balm has a lot of antioxidants.
- Antioxidant Properties: Lemon balm is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Lemon Balm Tea Side Effects
While lemon balm tea is generally safe for most people, itâs important to be aware of potential side effects, especially if consumed in large quantities.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions, especially if they are allergic to plants in the mint family.
- Problem with Thyroid: People who have thyroid problems should talk to their doctor before taking lemon balm regularly because large amounts may affect how well the thyroid works.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to a lack of study on its safety during these times, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take in too much.
- Drowsiness: Because lemon balm can make you sleepy, don’t drink it before doing something that needs you to be awake, like driving.
As with any herbal remedy, moderation is key. Always start with small amounts to gauge your bodyâs response.
Why You Should Try Lemon Balm Today
Lemon balm tea is more than just a pleasant beverageâ lemon balm tea is a must-try for anyone looking for a natural way to improve their health. So why wait? Get some fresh or dried lemon balm leaves, follow our simple recipe, and make yourself a cup of this magical tea. Then, tell us about your experience in the comments belowâhow did lemon balm tea make you feel? Did it help you relax or support your wellness goals? We’d love to hear your story!
Sip slowly and let lemon balm tea become your new favorite drink for a healthier, happier you.
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