Melissa officinalis

Balm or lemon balm

Family Labiatae (or Lamiaceae)

Melissa officinalis, balm or lemon balm (M. officinalis 1), is a perennial herb, about 50 cm high, with stalked, dentate simple leaves and white or pink flowers in axillary whorls. Flowers with a bell-shaped corolla and 4 curved stamens.

Distribution and use
Balm is a native of the Mediterranean region and is grown for its leaves (M. officinalis 2), which are used as a condiment because of their lemon-like flavour when crushed. Formerly balm was used as a medicinal herb to reduce fever and increase perspiration. The volatile oil is used in liqueur, e.g. Benedictine, sweets, pastries and perfumes.