Organic Lemon Balm Herbal Tea, 20 g

Discover Herberry's organic lemon balm herbal tea: dried leaves in a 20 g resealable kraft bag. Certified organic agriculture.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), also known as balm mint or bee balm, is a perennial plant in the Lamiaceae family widely cultivated throughout Europe. Its leaves, with their characteristic lemony scent, make it one of the most popular herbal teas in traditional home herbalism.

Botanical overview

Melissa officinalis is an herbaceous perennial plant that can reach 40 to 80 cm in height. Its oval, slightly toothed, wrinkled, bright green leaves immediately release a very characteristic lemony aroma when crushed. Its small, whitish flowers appear from June to August and attract bees, hence the Greek name melissa (bee). The plant is very easy to grow and can be invasive in gardens.

The leaves contain an essential oil rich in citral (geranial and neral), citronellal, and linalool, as well as phenolic acids (significant amounts of rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid), flavonoids, and triterpenes.

Aromatic and flavor profile

Lemon balm infusion creates a liquid that is slightly golden to greenish, depending on the concentration. Its aroma is lively, lemony, fresh, and pleasant. On the palate, the flavor is mild, lemony, and slightly herbaceous, with very little bitterness. It is one of the most accessible herbal teas, even for those not accustomed to herbal infusions. It pairs perfectly with verbena, lavender, or chamomile.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves (approx. 1.5 to 2 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, approximately 90°C (be sure not to boil to preserve the volatile aromas)
• Infusion time: 5 to 8 minutes, covered
• Strain and enjoy warm
• Frequency: 2 to 3 cups per day

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for people with thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's disease) without medical advice, as lemon balm may interfere with thyroid hormones
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice
• Not recommended for children under 6 years old
• In case of sedative or thyroid treatment, consult a doctor before consumption
• Do not exceed recommended usage amounts
• Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Is Herberry's organic lemon balm certified?

Yes, these lemon balm leaves are certified organic, with no pesticides or synthetic chemical inputs.

What is the difference between lemon balm and lemon verbena?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, Lamiaceae family) and lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora, Verbenaceae family) are two distinct plants with a similar lemony scent. Verbena is often more intense and refined; lemon balm is more herbaceous and slightly minty. Their phytochemical compositions differ.

Can fresh lemon balm be used instead of dried lemon balm?

Yes, fresh garden lemon balm can be used for infusions (double the amount compared to dried). Dried lemon balm is, however, more practical and stores better. Note that the drying process may slightly alter the aromatic profile.

How should I store my bag of lemon balm?

Away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Seal the bag tightly after use to preserve the volatile lemony aromas. Best consumed within 12 months.

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