Melissa officinalis leaf dry
Also known as: Melissa officinalis, Lemon balm, balm mint, Melissa officinalis L.
Overview
Melissa officinalis leaf dry is a herbal supplement derived from the dried leaves of the lemon balm plant, a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is widely recognized for its calming properties and its potential to positively influence mood and cognitive functions. Traditionally, it has been used to address symptoms of anxiety and depression. Modern research, including several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, supports its application for anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, as well as for improving certain cardio-metabolic parameters. The supplement is typically consumed in dried leaf form or as standardized extracts, with its efficacy attributed to various bioactive compounds.
Benefits
Melissa officinalis leaf dry offers several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated that lemon balm significantly reduces anxiety symptoms (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.98; 95% CI: -1.63 to -0.33; p = 0.003) and depressive symptoms (SMD: -0.47; 95% CI: -0.73 to -0.21; p = 0.0005) compared to placebo, particularly in acute settings, with no serious side effects reported. This provides moderate to high-quality evidence for its use in adults experiencing anxiety and depression. Furthermore, another systematic review and meta-analysis indicated beneficial effects on total cholesterol (TC) and systolic blood pressure (SBP), suggesting its potential to improve certain cardio-metabolic risk factors safely. These cardio-metabolic benefits are particularly noted in populations with elevated cardiovascular risk factors, supported by moderate quality evidence from RCTs.
How it works
Melissa officinalis exerts its effects through various bioactive compounds, including rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and essential oils. These compounds are believed to modulate neurotransmitter systems, particularly GABAergic pathways, which contributes to its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Additionally, the plant's constituents may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could contribute to its observed cardiovascular benefits. While the exact molecular targets are still under investigation, the mechanism likely involves the modulation of central nervous system neurotransmitters and improvements in vascular function. Rosmarinic acid is considered a key bioactive constituent, although the oral bioavailability of active compounds can vary.
Side effects
Melissa officinalis leaf dry is generally considered safe, with clinical trials and meta-analyses reporting no serious adverse events. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving possible gastrointestinal discomfort. There are no firmly established significant drug interactions or contraindications. However, caution is advised when combining Melissa officinalis with sedatives or thyroid medications due to the potential for additive effects. Individuals taking such medications should consult a healthcare provider. Data regarding the safety of Melissa officinalis in special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, are insufficient, and therefore, its use in these groups is not definitively recommended without medical supervision. Overall, its safety profile is favorable for most healthy adults when used within recommended dosages.
Dosage
Effective doses of Melissa officinalis leaf dry vary based on the intended use and formulation. For anxiety and depression symptoms, typical daily dosages range from 300 mg to 600 mg of a standardized extract. For cardio-metabolic effects, doses and specific formulations may differ, and standardized extracts with quantified rosmarinic acid content are generally preferred to ensure consistent efficacy. While the timing of administration is flexible, consistent daily dosing is recommended to achieve optimal benefits. Absorption of the active compounds may be enhanced when taken with food, though no specific cofactors are required. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially when addressing specific health conditions.
FAQs
Is Melissa officinalis leaf dry effective for anxiety?
Yes, meta-analytic evidence from clinical trials supports a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to placebo, indicating its effectiveness.
Are there any serious side effects?
No serious side effects have been reported in clinical trials, with any observed adverse effects being rare and mild, such as gastrointestinal discomfort.
How long before effects appear?
Benefits on anxiety and depression may be observed relatively quickly, with effects potentially appearing within days to a few weeks of consistent use.
Can it be combined with other medications?
Caution is advised, particularly with sedatives or thyroid medications, due to potential additive effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements with other drugs.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34449930/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Sadigh-Eteghad et al. (2021) synthesized data from randomized controlled trials up to October 2020, focusing on the effects of lemon balm on anxiety and depression. The pooled results demonstrated significant improvements in both anxiety (SMD: -0.98) and depression (SMD: -0.47) compared to placebo, with no serious side effects reported. The study highlights the anxiolytic and antidepressant potential of Melissa officinalis, despite some heterogeneity and a limited number of trials.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.7252 – This citation refers to the same systematic review and meta-analysis by Sadigh-Eteghad et al. (2021), which investigated the efficacy of Melissa officinalis in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The research concluded that lemon balm significantly alleviates these symptoms, providing moderate to high-quality evidence for its use. The study also noted the absence of serious adverse effects, supporting its safety profile.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32614129/ – Heshmati et al. (2020) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the cardio-metabolic outcomes of Melissa officinalis supplementation. The study, which included RCTs with at least 30 participants per group, found significant reductions in total cholesterol and systolic blood pressure. It also reported a favorable safety profile. While acknowledging variability in doses and study durations, the research suggests Melissa officinalis may safely improve certain cardiovascular risk factors.
