Botanical Name: Melissa officinalis.

Plant Part: Leaves

Origin: Serbia

Processing Method: Steam Distilled

Description / Color / Consistency: A thin, clear, colorless to yellow liquid.

Aromatic Summary / Note / Strength of Aroma: A middle note with a medium aroma, Melissa Leaf Essential Oil has a warm and radiant scent reminiscent of lemons.

Blends With: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Neroli, Rose, and Ylang-ylang.

Uses: in traditional and alternative medicine In the traditional Austrian medicine, M. officinalis leaves have been prescribed for internal (as tea) or external (essential oil) application for the treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, liver, and bile.] It is also a common addition to peppermint tea, mostly because of its complementing flavor.Lemon balm is the main ingredient of Carmelite Water, which is still for sale in German pharmacies. Lemon balm essential oil is very popular in aromatherapy. The white flowers attract bees, hence the genus name Melissa (Greek for 'honey bee'). Its flavor comes from citronellal (24%), geranial (16%), linalyl acetate (12%) and caryophyllene (12%)]oil is commonly co-distilled with lemon oil, citronella oil, or other oils.

Culinary use: Lemon balm is often used as a flavoring in ice cream and herbal teas, both hot and iced, often in combination with other herbs such as spearmint. It is also frequently paired with fruit dishes or candies. It can be used in fish dishes and is the key ingredient in lemon balm pesto.

Product Abstract: Related to mint and native to the Mediterranean basin and Central Asia, the herb's name Melissa comes from the Greek for ?honey bee?, as its white flowers are a favorite of bees. It was thought to give comfort and drive away sadness, and has always been grown as a common garden herb. It is a main ingredient in Carmelite Water, which has been popular for centuries.

Cautions: Dilute before use; for external use only. May cause skin irritation in some individuals; a skin test is recommended prior to use. Contact with eyes should be avoided.