Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a member of the mint family, is considered a “calming” herb.

It was used as far back as the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety, to promote sleep, to improve appetite and to ease pain and discomfort from indigestion (including gas and bloating as well as colic).

Even before the Middle Ages, lemon balm was steeped in wine to lift the spirits, to help heal wounds and treat venomous insect bites and stings.

Today, lemon balm is combined with other calming, soothing herbs, such as Valerian, chamomile, and hops, to promote relaxation and sleep. It is also used in creams to treat cold sores (oral herpes).