Melissa Officinalis Extract
Also known as: Melissa officinalis, Lemon balm, Melissa
Overview
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, widely recognized for its calming and antioxidant properties. Traditionally, it has been used medicinally to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as to improve sleep quality. The herb contains various compounds, including flavonoids and rosmarinic acid, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Lemon balm is available in several forms, including capsules, teas, and extracts, making it a versatile option for those seeking its benefits. Research on lemon balm is growing, with several clinical trials and reviews available, though more high-quality studies are needed to fully validate its effects. The available evidence suggests promising outcomes, but further research is necessary to establish robust conclusions.
Benefits
Lemon balm has demonstrated significant benefits in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that lemon balm significantly improved anxiety scores with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of -0.98 and depression scores with an SMD of -0.47 compared to a placebo. It may also improve sleep quality by increasing slow-wave sleep (SWS). These benefits are particularly notable for individuals experiencing acute anxiety and depression. While the effect sizes suggest moderate to large improvements in anxiety and smaller improvements in depression, the time course of these benefits is not well-defined but appears effective in short-term use. The quality of evidence, while promising, requires further validation through additional high-quality studies.
How it works
Lemon balm's therapeutic effects are primarily attributed to its flavonoids and rosmarinic acid content. These compounds interact with neurotransmitter systems and possess anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, lemon balm may influence the central nervous system by modulating neurotransmitter activity. Research suggests that the extract may act on muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and the L-arginine-nitric oxide pathway. However, specific data on the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds are limited, warranting further investigation to fully understand the herb's mechanism of action.
Side effects
Lemon balm is generally considered safe, with no serious side effects reported in clinical trials. Common side effects are not well-documented but are typically mild. Uncommon side effects may include potential allergic reactions or interactions with certain medications. Rare side effects have not been reported in available literature. Drug interactions may occur with sedatives or thyroid medications due to its effects on neurotransmitter systems. Caution is advised for individuals with thyroid conditions or those taking sedatives. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use. Overall, lemon balm has a favorable safety profile, but users should be aware of potential interactions and contraindications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of lemon balm is not well-established, but typical dosages range from 300 to 1,600 mg per day. Clinical trials often use doses around 500-600 mg per day. The maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, but high doses are generally avoided due to potential sedative effects. For sleep benefits, it is best taken before bedtime, or as needed for anxiety. Lemon balm is available in capsules, teas, and extracts, with bioavailability potentially influenced by the form of administration. No specific cofactors are required for its use. Users should adhere to recommended dosage ranges and consult healthcare providers for personalized guidance.
FAQs
Is lemon balm safe to use with other medications?
Lemon balm is generally safe but should be used under medical supervision if combined with other medications, particularly sedatives or thyroid medications, due to potential interactions.
Can individuals with thyroid issues use lemon balm?
It is not recommended for individuals with thyroid issues to use lemon balm without consulting a healthcare provider, as it may affect thyroid function.
When is the best time to take lemon balm for optimal effects?
For sleep benefits, lemon balm is best taken before bedtime. For anxiety, it can be taken as needed throughout the day for consistent effects.
How long does it take to see results from using lemon balm?
Improvements in anxiety and sleep quality may be noticeable within a few weeks of consistent use. However, individual results may vary.
Is lemon balm a substitute for medical treatment for severe depression or anxiety?
No, lemon balm is not a substitute for medical treatment for severe depression or anxiety. It should be used as a complementary therapy under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34449930/ – A systematic review and meta-analysis found that lemon balm significantly improved anxiety and depression scores compared to a placebo, with SMDs of -0.98 for anxiety and -0.47 for depression. The study highlights the potential of lemon balm as a complementary treatment for these conditions, but notes limitations due to high heterogeneity among included studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32614129/ – This study investigated the effects of Melissa officinalis phytosome on sleep quality and found a statistically significant increase in slow-wave sleep (SWS). The findings suggest that lemon balm may improve sleep quality by enhancing SWS, although the study's focus was limited to sleep quality without broader psychological assessments.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/23/4199 – This research highlights the antioxidant properties of lemon balm and its potential anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to its therapeutic benefits. The study suggests that lemon balm's antioxidant activity could play a role in its overall efficacy, but more clinical trials are needed to fully understand these effects in humans.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.7252 – This citation refers to a study, however, the abstract is not available without subscription. Further research is needed to determine the specific findings and implications of this study on lemon balm's effects.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2156587216663433 – This study investigates the mechanisms of action of Melissa officinalis, focusing on its interactions with muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and the L-arginine-nitric oxide pathway. The research provides insights into the potential molecular targets of lemon balm, contributing to a better understanding of its therapeutic effects on the central nervous system.