Item Tag: Melissa Officinalis

1/4 Pound Mylar Bag – Lemon Balm SeedsGold Vault Mylar Zip Packet Strongly lemon scented, Lemon Balm is a popular ingredient of herbal teas and potpourris! Fresh leaves give a nice lemon flavor to salads, soups, sauces and meats. Lemon Balm is also valued for its medicinal properties! Used to treat colds, flu, indigestion, etc. It is a perennial that grows up to 30 inches tall and produces insignificant pale yellow flowers in summer. Should be mulched to protect plant in harsh climates. Attractive to bees, butterflies, and/or birds. May be invasive. Deadhead to prevent self sowing. Lemon balm was most likely introduced to Spain by the Moors in the 7th century; by the Middle Ages, it was common throughout Europe. Its Latin name, Melissa, means “bee” in Greek and refers to the plant’s tendency to attract bees; first century Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder recommended that lemon balm be cultivated near bee hives to prevent the bees from straying. A member of the mint family, lemon balm dates back over 2,000 years for use as a medicinal herb primarily to treat stress and anxiety, insomnia, and indigestion. Eleventh century Persian physician and philosopher Avicenna wrote of the benefits of lemon balm in treating low spirits or melancholy. According to an old Arabian proverb, “Balm makes the heart merry and joyful.” According to historical record, both King Charles V of France and Emperor Charles V drank lemon balm beverages to improve their health; lemon balm was also one of the plants grown in Thomas Jefferson’s famous experimental garden. Today, herbal treatments containing lemon balm often include other calming herbs such as valerian, chamomile, and hops to encourage relaxation. These seeds are non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms), and are also free from all Neonicotinoids. They are packaged in our superb Gold Mylar Mylar Zip Packaging, which gives the seeds the best storage possible, and allows you to reseal the bag for later use. The artwork and labels on the packet are loaded with information – many people comment that it is the most beautiful packet that they have ever seen. If you have never tried out our seeds before, this is your chance to experience something special!