Lemon Balm and herpes

Lemoln Balm, a herb? a weed? it can take over a garden and grows into quite a bushy plant.  The lemon balm plant originated in southern Europe and is now found throughout the world.  The lemony smell and pretty white flowers of the plant have led to its widespread cultivation. Fresh leaves can be added to salad or used in egg dishes and can be used to make sauces for fish, poultry and pork. Dried or fresh the whole plant is used to make cool refreshing drinks or warm relaxing teas. However it really has some healing properties…

Mild sedative, Antibacterial, Antiviral, Spasmolytic, Carminative. Antispasmodic.

Extracts of the plant were found to have antiviral properties. (Cohen, R.A., et al. 1964; Kucera, L.S. et al. 1965; Hermann, E.C. et al. 1967).

Also It may help conditions where the memory is fragile (Dr Andrew Scholey, Northumbria University)

Laboratory tests found lemon balm increased the activity of acetylcholene, a chemical messenger linked to memory that is reduced in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

“Controlling Herpes Naturally: A Practical Guide to Treatment & Prevention” (Michele Picozzi)

Lemon Balm contains a volatile oil citral and citronella which is strongly antispasmodic and aids in calming nerves, relieving menstrual cramps, insomnia, depression, hyperthyroidism, upset stomach, and colic in babies. Leaf tea is good for fevers, colds, and headache. Fresh crushed leaves are applied to wounds and insect bites. The essential oils in the fresh plant, particularly citronella make it a most effective insect repellent when crushed and rubbed on skin or clothes. Research has shown that the plant contains polyphenols, it can help significantly in the treatment of cold sores and combat the herpes simplex virus. Added to bath it relieves muscle tension and soothes irritated skin.

But it is becoming well known as a an antiviral that can both help with and prevent attacks of herpes…Some studies suggest that topical ointments containing lemon balm may help heal lip sores associated with herpes simplex virus (HSV). In one study of 116 people with HSV, those who applied lemon balm cream to their lip sores experienced significant improvement in redness and swelling after only two days. Although other symptoms, (such as pain and scabbing) did not improve, both the patients and their physicians reported that the lemon balm ointment was highly effective. Several animal studies also support the value of topical lemon balm for herpes lesions.  More recent studies have suggested an immprovement in herpes lesions, reduced length of episodes and frequency of attacks when ingested as a tisane or infusion.

A fascinating plant with many uses, plants used wisely are our natural medecine.

Technorati Tags: healing, Herbs

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