As an herbalist and spiritualist devoted to both the mundane and magical sides of botanicals, lemon balm is one of my absolute favorite plants to grow and use. With its intoxicating lemony scent and diverse benefits, it's easy to see why lemon balm has become so popular.
Medicinal properties of Lemon Balm (It’s scienceeee!)
Medicinally speaking*, lemon balm is highly regarded for its ability to gently uplift mood, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and ease tummy troubles. The compounds in it interact with neurotransmitters in the brain to promote calmness without drowsiness.
Here are some studies on the health benefits of lemon balm:
• A 2011 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found lemon balm extract significantly reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality.
• A 2014 review article referenced studies showing lemon balm essential oil demonstrated antimicrobial effects against bacteria strains like Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans yeast.
• A 2003 study, 2014 review, and 1999 study indicated improved cognitive function and memory in human subjects taking lemon balm extracts, likely due to acetylcholinesterase inhibition.
• A 2020 study showed that topical application of lemon balm tea improved skin elasticity and hydration in human subjects.
• A 2016 randomized controlled trial demonstrated that lemon balm extract reduced cramping, nausea, and pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
• A 2015 study suggested lemon balm extracts may help lower lipid levels in rats.
I drink lemon balm tea when my nerves are on the fritz and make lemon balm ice cubes and lemon balm lemonade in the summer.
Lemon Balm used in magickal and spiritual rituals
Energetically, lemon balm brings a brightness that dispels negativity. It's like a beam of sunlight and joy in plant form! I use it in purification rituals to clear away worries or stale energy and invite in positivity. It aligns perfectly with the intention of renewal.
Here are some common ways lemon balm is used in witchcraft spells and rituals:
• Cleansing and Protection - Lemon balm is said to clear negative energy. It may be burned as incense or included in sachets or baths for magical cleansing.
• Promoting Love - Infusing lemon balm into drinks, foods, or incense is thought to attract new love. It can also be added to charm bags.
• Soothing Anxiety - Lemon balm is believed to ease stress and calm the mind. It is often drank as tea before rituals.
• Strengthening Intuition - Some believe inhaling lemon balm essential oil or brewing it in teas helps open the third eye and enhance psychic awareness.
• Prophetic Dreaming - Placing lemon balm under one's pillow is thought to promote prophetic dreams and visions.
• Uplifting Mood - Lemon balm's bright, refreshing energy is said to conjure optimism. It may be used in spells to cultivate joy.
• Healing Spells - pairing lemon balm with affirmations in charm bags is thought to aid healing and wellbeing.
Of course, individuals' intended uses can vary. But these are some of the common purposes associated with incorporating lemon balm into magical practices.
My favorite lemon balm uses: Add lemon balm in charm bags to attract love and harmony. Its cheerful vibration is like a magnet for meaningful relationships and laughter. You can also blend it with lavender and chamomile in dream pillows to encourage prophetic dreams.
Lemon Balm throughout history
Here's a brief overview of the history of lemon balm used ritually:
• Lemon balm has been associated with magical and ritual uses going back over 2,000 years to Greek and Roman times.
• Ancient Greek herbalist Pedanius Dioscorides recorded using lemon balm for love potions and to attract good health.
• Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder recommended planting lemon balm to attract bees and sweeten one's relationships and life.
• In Medieval times, lemon balm was used in religious rituals, such as sprinkling holy water, to ward off evil spirits and demons.
• Monks in the Middle Ages planted lemon balm to treat nervous anxiety and melancholy. They used it to uplift mood before prayer.
• In folk magic traditions spanning Europe through the 19th century, lemon balm was commonly used in divination, rituals, and charm bags for love, success, and psychic awareness.
• Modern occult practices still incorporate lemon balm for its cleansing, protective, and emotionally uplifting properties, as well as enhancing intuition and prophetic dreams.
So from ancient temples to medieval monasteries to modern magic, lemon balm's association with purification, harmony, and psychic insight has spanned millennia across many cultures and faiths.
One of the easiest witchy plants to grow, lemon balm readily spreads (some say invades!) flower beds with a little nurturing. With so many uplifting magical and medicinal uses, I make sure lemon balm is never lacking from my herbal apothecary. It's a beloved ally of mine, and I recommend you try growing some yourself!
Resources
- Dioscorides recorded lemon balm's use in love potions in De Materia Medica, an ancient herbal text.
- Pliny the Elder's natural history writings like Naturalis Historia document Roman era herb lore.
- The Vienna Dioscurides ancient medicinal manuscript depicts lemon balm and magical herb use.
- Medieval monastery garden records, such as the Plan of St. Gall in Switzerland, show lemon balm cultivation.
- Richard Alan Miller's "The Magical and Ritual Use of Herbs" describes later European folk magic practices involving lemon balm.
- Scott Cunningham's "Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" details lemon balm associated with psychic awareness in modern witchcraft.
*Legal Disclaimer: All content on this website is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Any claims about medicinal benefits or magical properties are based on ancient folklore, spiritual beliefs, or personal experience. No factual medical advice is provided, and you should always consult your doctor regarding any health or symptom issues. The writer does not advocate neglecting traditional medical treatment or replacing professional care with homemade remedies. The content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Any intent to self-diagnose or self-treat can have potentially serious consequences. This website makes no guarantees regarding any suggested uses or perceived properties described herein, nor assumes any liability for how the reader chooses to interpret or apply any information they gain from this site. Please use wisdom and caution when considering herbal treatments, essential oils, crystals, spiritual cleansing methods, and other DIY remedies explored here. Your safety is important - have fun but stay mindful!
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