Melissa oil, extracted from the Melissa officinalis plant, is used in aromatherapy and has possible medicinal and cosmetic uses. The plant has been historically used to relieve minor ailments and contains monoterpenes, tannins, and eugenol. Recent studies suggest it may relieve anxiety and insomnia. It can also be used as an insect repellent and is commonly used in perfumes, soaps, and foods. The plant is native to southern Europe and is now cultivated throughout the continent and North America.
Melissa oil is a substance extracted from the leaves of the Melissa officinalis plant. It is commonly called lemon balm due to its pleasant citrus smell. This relaxing scent contributes to its popular use in aromatherapy. With a mild aroma and flavor, Melissa oil and Melissa officinalis leaves can be found in many desserts, sweets, and herbal teas. The oil is believed by some to possess a number of medicinal properties, as well as many cosmetic uses.
Melissa officinalis is a perennial plant and a member of the Lamiaceae family, which includes many commonly used herbs such as mint, thyme, oregano, sage, basil, and others. Melissa officinalis plants typically grow to be about two feet tall. Its leaves resemble those of mint plants, with ovoid shapes that curve to a point at the end of each leaf. In spring and summer, clusters of small yellow flowers can be found near the leaves.
Melissa officinalis has been used throughout history to relieve minor ailments such as indigestion, headaches, menstrual difficulties, gas, and insomnia. Although few studies exist on its medicinal uses, the oil and leaves of the plant contain monoterpenes, hydrocarbons that contribute to its possible antiviral and sedative effects. Melissa officinalis and its oil are believed to help reduce fevers because the plant is rich in tannins, substances believed to have antiviral properties. Melissa officinalis also contains eugenol, a chemical compound that kills bacteria and numbs tissue.
Melissa oil has also been shown to be helpful in treating skin conditions such as cold sores, especially those related to the herpes simplex virus. Studies found that, when applied as a lemon balm cream, the oil extract helps reduce redness and swelling of herpes lesions, though it does little to nothing to relieve pain. It is also considered beneficial to apply a mixture of crushed leaves and hot water to cold sores and herpes.
While Melissa oil remains popular in the homeopathic field of aromatherapy, researchers have conducted more rigorous studies to determine if it can actually relieve anxiety and insomnia. A recent study found that patients given doses of lemon balm extract reported greater feelings of calm and alertness than those given placebos. Another study suggested that lemon balm may help those who suffer from insomnia when combined with other herbs, although the extent of lemon balm’s contribution is uncertain.
Lemon balm oil can also be used as an insect repellent and to treat insect bites. The oil is commonly used in the manufacture of perfumes, soaps, varnishes, and different foods. In its pure form, the oil is often expensive, so it is common to see the oil adulterated with other substances.
Originally from southern Europe, the plant was brought north by the Romans. It is now cultivated throughout the continent and in North America. The name “Melissa” derives from the Greek word for honey, and appears in the plant’s Latin name due to its frequent proximity to bee hives.
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