As the warmest days of summer peak in July, many of us seek relief from the heat and stress that accompany the season. This is where lemon balm, an herb with soothing and cooling properties, steps in as the perfect herbal remedy for summer wellness. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been celebrated for centuries as a mood enhancer, digestive soother, and natural remedy for stress relief, making it a perfect “refresh” herb to enjoy during summer.
In this blog, we’ll explore the cooling benefits of lemon balm, its uses, and simple ways to incorporate it into your daily routine for an instant refresh.
What is Lemon Balm?
Lemon balm is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, known for its mild lemony scent and a subtle minty flavor. Native to Europe and the Mediterranean, lemon balm has been used for over 2,000 years in traditional medicine, especially for its calming and uplifting properties. Today, this versatile herb is often used to promote relaxation, support digestion, and boost the immune system.
Cooling Benefits of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm stands out in summer because of its gentle, cooling effects on both body and mind. Here are a few ways it works its refreshing magic:
1. Calming Effects for Stress Relief
Lemon balm has been shown to promote a sense of calm, which is particularly valuable during the intense heat and activity of summer. Research supports its use as an anti-anxiety herb, and it’s commonly used to manage mild to moderate stressming properties of lemon balm make it ideal for unwinding on hot summer evenings or easing tension when the heat feels overwhelming.
How to Use: Brew a cup of lemon balm tea when you’re feeling anxious or irritable. It’s a gentle way to find calm and lower your internal “temperature” in more ways than one.
2. A Natural Mood Enhancer
Summer is a time to feel vibrant and energized, and lemon balm can give your mood a gentle lift. Studies have shown that lemon balm helps increase levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which can positively affect mood. Its mildly uplifting effects make it an excellent herbal ally for summer, especially during stressful days or heavy heat.
Tip: Try a lemon balm tincture or capsule for a quick mood boost. These supplements can easily be taken on the go when you’re out and about during the summer months.
3. Soothes Digestive Discomfort
July’s heat can sometimes cause digestive issues, especially when we indulge in heavier meals or outdoor picnics. Lemon balm, known for its antispasmodic properties, can be an effective natural remedy for calming the digestive system. It’s frequently used to relieve indigestion, bloating, and mild stomach cramps, making it perfect for those summertime BBQs or gatherings.
Recipe Idea: Create a lemon balm-infused water with a handful of fresh lemon balm leaves, a few slices of cucumber, and lemon for a refreshing, digestive-supporting drink.
4. Supports Restful Sleep
Warm nights and long days can disrupt our sleep schedules, leading to restlessness. Lemon balm is naturally calming, with a mild sedative effect that helps with relaxation and improves sleep quality. For those struggling to fall asleep in the summer heat, lemon balm may be a helpful herb to add to your nighttime routine.
How to Use: Try a lemon balm tea with a spoonful of honey about an hour before bed to help ease you into a restful sleep.
Simple Lemon Balm Recipes to Enjoy in July
Incorporating lemon balm into your daily life can be simple and enjoyable. Here are a few refreshing ways to use this herb:
Lemon Balm Iced Tea
For an invigorating summer drink, lemon balm iced tea offers both flavor and cool relief.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves (or 2 tbsp dried)
- 4 cups of water
- Fresh lemon slices
- Honey or agave (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions:
- Boil water, add lemon balm leaves, and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain the leaves and let the tea cool.
- Serve over ice with a slice of fresh lemon and a touch of honey if desired. Enjoy the refreshing taste and cooling effects.
Lemon Balm and Mint Popsicles
Beat the heat with herbal popsicles that are both cooling and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lemon balm tea (brewed and cooled)
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice
- Juice from half a lemon
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients together until smooth.
- Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Once frozen, enjoy your naturally cooling, herbal treat on a hot day.
Lemon Balm Face Mist
For a quick skin refresher, lemon balm can be used in a cooling face mist that hydrates and calms skin.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled water
- A handful of fresh lemon balm leaves (or 2 tbsp dried)
- 2–3 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Steep lemon balm leaves in hot water for 10 minutes, then cool.
- Strain the leaves and pour the liquid into a small spray bottle.
- Add lavender essential oil if desired. Keep in the fridge for a cooling mist you can spritz on hot days.
Precautions and Considerations
While lemon balm is generally safe for most people, here are a few considerations:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare professional before using lemon balm if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Medications: Lemon balm may interact with certain medications, especially those for thyroid or sedative purposes. It’s always best to check with your doctor if you are taking medication.
- Allergies: Those with a known allergy to mint-family plants (such as sage or basil) should approach lemon balm with caution.
Final Thoughts
Lemon balm truly shines as an herb that refreshes both mind and body, making it a valuable addition to your herbal toolkit, especially during the peak of summer. Its gentle, cooling nature helps calm anxiety, enhance mood, support digestion, and improve sleep quality—just what we need for July’s warm and active days.
By embracing lemon balm, you can discover a world of natural relief from the season’s heat, stress, and occasional digestive woes. So, take a moment to enjoy a refreshing lemon balm tea or mist, and let this herb bring a bit of summer calm into your life.
