Herbal Tea Series: Lemon Balm Tea Benefits: Energy & Focus
- Astrid van Essen
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Some herbs feel like a hug; others are more like sunshine. Lemon balm, to me, is both. It’s one of my go-to herbs when I want to feel grounded but not sleepy, calm but clear-headed.
Lemon balm tea is light, lemony (as the name suggests), and part of the mint family. It’s uplifting without overstimulating, making it a brilliant everyday tea for focus, nervous energy, or simply slowing down without switching off.
What Is Lemon Balm Tea?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a leafy herb with a subtle citrus scent and gentle flavour. It’s easy to grow and thrives in pots or borders. Its leaves can be brewed fresh or dried to make a delicate herbal infusion.
Traditionally used in folk medicine to calm the nerves and lift the mood, lemon balm is a popular herb in modern herbalism, especially for managing stress and promoting gentle mental clarity.
Lemon Balm Tea Benefits
Here’s an overview of all the lemon balm tea benefits and why I keep a jar of dried lemon balm in my kitchen (and a plant on my patio):
Reduces Anxiety and Restlessness
Lemon balm has natural calming properties and may help ease mild anxiety, nervous tension, or a racing mind.
Supports Focus and Clarity
It’s unique in that it calms without making you drowsy—perfect for daytime stress or when you want a tea that doesn’t dull your energy.
Aids Digestion
Like many mints, lemon balm supports digestion and may help relieve bloating or mild cramps.
Mood Support
Some studies suggest lemon balm may have a gentle mood-lifting effect and could help with symptoms of mild depression or emotional overwhelm.
Naturally Caffeine-Free
It’s a soothing option for the afternoon or evening without affecting your sleep.
How to Make Lemon Balm Tea
Ingredients:
1 tbsp dried lemon balm (or a small handful of fresh leaves)
250 ml hot water (just off the boil)
Optional: add lemon peel, honey, or blend with peppermint.
Method:
Add lemon balm to a mug or teapot.
Pour over hot water and cover.
Steep for 7–10 minutes.
Strain, sip, and enjoy.
Tip: Add a small strip of lemon peel during steeping for a brighter citrus flavour.
Safety Notes
Lemon balm is very safe for most people.
Avoid in large amounts during pregnancy without guidance.
If you're on thyroid medication, consult a practitioner—lemon balm may affect thyroid activity in high doses.
As with any herb, start small and see how your body responds.
A Calming Ritual I Love
When feeling overbooked or frazzled, I’ll brew a cup of lemon balm tea and sit with it outside. I don’t do anything fancy. Take a few deep breaths while the tea steeps, listen to the birds, and pause.
Sometimes I blend it with a bit of rosemary for focus, or chamomile if I’m edging toward evening and want to unwind.
Bonus Tips: Creative Ways to Use Lemon Balm Tea
Chill & Sip Cold: Brew a pot, cool it, and store it in the fridge. It’s lovely as a midday calming iced tea, especially with a slice of cucumber or mint.
Facial Rinse: Lemon balm’s anti-inflammatory properties make it great as a skin toner—just let the tea cool and pat onto clean skin.
Add to Bath Water: Pour a cup into your bath for a relaxing, herbal soak.
Use in Simmer Pots: Add the brewed tea (or fresh leaves) to a stovetop simmer pot with citrus slices and rosemary for a cheerful home fragrance.
Lemon Balm Tea Benefits: Try It Yourself
You can grow lemon balm easily at home—it spreads beautifully in pots or garden beds.
Curious about other teas in the series? Catch up below:
Next in the series: Sage Tea—earthy, grounding, and full of ancient wisdom.
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