The way my family and garden grows: Lemon Balm

Genesis 1:29
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.

What does Lemon Balm do

Many people grow Lemon Balm in their garden for it's looks. It's flowers help to attract bees to the garden. It is also grown for it's wonderful medicinal properties. Being a mild, nutritive herb it’s great to use every day. Medical authorities of ancient Greece and Rome mentioned topical lemon balm as a treatment for wounds. The herb was later used orally as a treatment for influenza, insomnia, anxiety, depression, also acts to restore depleted energy and revitalize us, and for a nervous stomach. Lemon Balm can also act as a decongestant and antihistamine, helping with even chronic problems like asthma or allergies. Lemon Balm is also an anti-viral herb. There is also some evidence that it may be helpful in colic and irritable bowel syndrome. You can also make it into a tea, a tooth polish that whitens teeth, an insect repellent, a syrup and for first aid treatments.
If you had to buy the oil, creams, ointments or salves they run from $11.00 to $115.00. Products including the real lemon balm run on the high end of that price range.
In a later blog I will explain how to make each.

How to Harvest Lemon Balm

Cut the whole branch as close as you can to the ground. The area will grow back at least one more time this season. You want to make sure to do this before it flowers.

Gather the branches together that you are going to dry. Tie end with rubber band to allow shrinkage. Rinse well allow to dry somewhat. Place in a bag leaving room for ventilation and hang in a dry, dark place. When dry take leaves and place in glass jars with lids.