Lemon balm oil is the essential oil extracted from the leaves of the lemon balm plant, a perennial herb in the mint family. The oil has a sweet lemon scent and is popular in aromatherapy. Lemon balm is recognized as an effective treatment for a variety of ailments and has been used for much of history as a medicinal herb. It is known to have many beneficial properties; it is an antihistamine, anti-viral, and antioxidant.
One of the main uses for lemon balm oil is as a treatment for stomach problems. It has a soothing effect on the digestive system and can help to relieve the discomfort associated with indigestion. Issues such as dyspepsia, bloating, and gas have all been shown to respond well to lemon balm oil.
Another characteristic attributed to lemon balm oil is its calming effect. The herb has mildly sedative properties and can be used to soothe the nerves. It can be helpful in reducing anxiety and depression. Its relaxing properties may also help to induce sleep for people suffering from insomnia.
Skin problems are another area where treatment with lemon balm oil may be beneficial. It can be used topically to soothe insect bites and stings, wounds, and other itchy or painful skin irritations. Using it to treat cold sores and genital lesions caused by the herpes simplex virus has been shown to help them heal more quickly; this is typically attributed to lemon balm's anti-viral properties. Eczema may also be soothed by the herb's antihistamine properties.
Women experiencing issues with menstruation may benefit from using lemon balm oil. Due to its ability to help the muscles relax, it is effective in easing the pain of cramps. It is also thought to help regulate the menstrual cycle. It is recommended that pregnant women avoid lemon balm because of this effect.
Thyroid function may also be impacted by use of lemon balm oil. There is some evidence that it may suppress the release of hormones from the thyroid gland. This has led to its use as an alternative treatment of Grave's disease, which causes hyperthyroidism.
Several other ailments and issues are also often treated using lemon balm oil. People with headaches, including migraines, may use it to find relief. Colds, cough, and flu sometimes respond well due to the oil's anti-viral characteristics. The antihistamine effect can aid in the treatment of allergies and asthma. It is also thought to help lower blood pressure.