Herb Directory

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has a storied history dating back over 2000 years. The Greek polymath Theophrastus mentioned it in his work Historia Plantarum around 300 BCE, calling it “bee-leaf” (μελισσόφυλλον).

Formally introduced to Europe in the 7th century, it spread widely for culinary and medicinal use. Native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia, lemon balm is cultivated for its lemon-scented leaves. These fragrant leaves flavor salads, soups, sauces, and herbal teas. The essential oil finds applications in aromatherapy, perfumery, and cosmetics.

Easy to grow, and a rampant spreader, it serves as an attractive garden ornamental and a nectar source for honeybees.