Lemon Balm 🍋

🍋 ### **Lemon Balm: The Herb of Serenity and Vital Energy**

Lemon Balm (*Melissa officinalis*), ruled by the **Moon**, carries the **elements of Water and Air**, making it a **cooling, soothing, and uplifting** herb. It nurtures the **heart, mind, digestive system, and nervous system**, easing tension and restoring inner peace.

### **Temperament & Elements**
- **Temperament:** Cool & Moist (Phlegmatic-Sanguine) – Calms heat, soothes irritability, and gently stimulates circulation without overstimulation.
- **Elements:** **Water** cools inflammation, softens tension, and nourishes the nerves; **Air** lifts the spirits, clears the mind, and promotes lightness in the body.
- **Planet:** **Moon** – Governs emotions, intuition, and cycles, aligning with Lemon Balm’s ability to **calm the heart, soothe digestion, and restore emotional balance**.

### **Organs & Functions**
- **Heart & Circulatory System** – Eases palpitations, reduces blood pressure, and improves circulation.
- **Mind & Nervous System** – Relieves stress, anxiety, and nervous tension while enhancing mental clarity.
- **Digestive System** – Soothes indigestion, bloating, and nausea while supporting a healthy gut.
- **Immune System** – Fights viruses, supports the body's defenses, and reduces fever.
- **Liver & Detoxification** – Encourages gentle detoxification and helps process emotional and physical stagnation.

### **Growth & Harvesting**
- **Growth Habit:** A **hardy perennial**, Lemon Balm thrives in **full sun to partial shade** and prefers **rich, well-drained soil**. It spreads easily and can become invasive if not managed.
- **Frost Resistance:** **Frost-resistant** – Lemon Balm withstands cold temperatures and will return each spring, though it may die back in winter.
- **When to Harvest:** Harvest **leaves and flowering tops** before the plant blooms for the strongest medicinal properties, typically in **late spring through summer**. For **continuous growth**, cut back regularly to prevent flowering and encourage fresh, tender leaves.

A true **herb of peace and clarity**, Lemon Balm **calms the mind, strengthens the heart, and soothes the body**, making it a powerful ally for both emotional and physical well-being.

**Disclaimer:** The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbs for medicinal purposes, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have existing health conditions.