Lemon Balm is a perennial herb and is edible. It is used in many culinary dishes and makes a wonderful tea.

Tea Recipe:

Add 2 tsp. of chopped leaves to 1 cup of boiling water, steep for 10 min. then

strain. I like to add honey and lemon for some extra flavor.

It has a number of home remedy applications. The crushed leaves can be applied to wounds and insect bites. It works well as a repellent for mosquitoes by rubbing on your skin and clothes. The leaves and young flowering shots are antibacterial, antispasmodic, antiviral and aids in calming nerves, reliving menstrual cramps, fevers, colds and headache. It can be added to a bath to relieve muscle tensions and soothes irritated skin.

Lemon Balm has also been used in the treatment of cold sores and in combating the herpes simplex virus.