Health Benefits of Lemon Balm

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Lemon balm offers a range of health benefits, particularly in improving mood, reducing stress, enhancing sleep quality, and potentially aiding in cholesterol management. Its antioxidant properties also contribute to immune health. However, the effects can vary based on dosage and form of administration, and further research is needed to fully understand its potential in metabolic health.

Mood and Cognitive Function

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been traditionally used to enhance mood and cognitive function. Studies have shown that it can improve mood and cognitive performance when administered in various forms such as capsules, beverages, and yoghurts. These effects are attributed to its anxiolytic properties, which help in reducing stress and enhancing calmness1 2. In particular, a study demonstrated that a 1600 mg dose of lemon balm significantly improved memory performance and increased calmness in participants2. However, the effects can vary depending on the dosage and form of administration, with some doses leading to decrements in task performance3.

Stress Reduction

Lemon balm is also effective in reducing stress. A study involving a standardized extract of lemon balm showed that a 600 mg dose could significantly ameliorate the negative mood effects induced by stress simulations, increasing calmness and reducing alertness4. This suggests that lemon balm could be a valuable natural remedy for managing stress.

Sleep Quality

Lemon balm has been found to improve sleep quality, particularly in postmenopausal women who often experience sleep disorders. A clinical trial showed that lemon balm extract significantly improved sleep quality scores compared to a placebo, indicating its potential as a treatment for sleep disorders5. Additionally, a combination of valerian and lemon balm was effective in reducing sleep disturbances during menopause10.

Metabolic Health

While lemon balm has been explored for its effects on metabolic parameters such as blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides, the results are mixed. One study found a significant reduction in cholesterol levels with lemon balm supplementation, although no significant effects were observed on fasting blood sugar and triglycerides6. This suggests that lemon balm may have some benefits for cholesterol management, but further research is needed to confirm these effects.

Antioxidant and Immune Benefits

Lemon balm also exhibits antioxidant properties, which can enhance immune responses. In a study on rainbow trout, lemon balm extract improved growth performance and stimulated antioxidant enzyme activities, suggesting its potential to boost immune function8. Additionally, its antioxidant properties have been shown to mitigate liver damage in animal models, further supporting its health benefits9.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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