BALM Melissa officinalis . Labiatae.
Paracelsus was a great medieval herbalist and this was his favourite herb.
All herbs should be used in moderation and not in large quantities. Please consult a Herbalist.
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  The Elixir of Life.
Sweet Balm and Lemon Balm.
Paracelsus was a great medieval herbalist and this was his favourite herb.The generic name, melissa is Greek for honey bee, so it is an asset in the garden.
 
Annual/biennial/Perennial Half hardy annual.
Appearance Dark, rough foliage with small white, pink, pale blue or yellow-white flowers which grow in the axils of the leaves. Very fragrant plant.
Height 3 ft/1m
Growing Position Sunny sheltered position. Frost will destroy it..
Disease Septoria melissoe. The need for plenty of air to be able to circulate around the plants otherwise this disease which attacks in damp weather wil be allowed to take hold.
Fertiliser  
Propagation & soil Propogate byseed, cuttings or dividing the older (2-3 years old) clumps and keeping inside through the winter. Rich, warm, moist soil.
General information Your plant will not produce enough leaves in its first year and you will only be able to take three or four stems in the second. The best time for cutting is on a dull, slightly cool day and first thing in the morning.
Spring Plant seeds in seed trays or directly in beds in Junel. Make sure there is plenty of space around them.
Summer Pick the leaves before flowers appear.
Autumn Take inside and protect from frost, divide.
Winter  
Use The leaves before flowering.
Aromatic, Medicinal or Culinary Aromatic, Medicinal and Culinary
Areas of help Fever, to promote sweating, painful menstruation, nightmares and bowel pains.
Specific Use
  • Chop the leaves freshly and add to anything that will be enhanced by the lemon flavour.
  • Add to China tea for a delicious flavour.
  • To make perfume and colognes.
  • Add to rice for a change
Recipe
Large doses can be harmful.
Basic recipes and how to make, CLICK.

Melissa Tea:
1 teaspoon of leaves per cup and 1 for the pot.
Place freshly cut or crushed leaves in a teapot andpour over boiling water allow to steep for 3 mins.

 
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