Page 100 - Lost Book Remedies

The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies

control blood sugar levels and protects the body drying on screens, in a dehydrator, or hand them in
against the oxidative stress caused by diabetes. bunches to dry. I like to harvest just before the plant
flowers (early to late summer).
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant: Lemon
balm oil acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
It reduces inflammation in the body, protecting
against disease and reducing pain.
Fights Cancer: Lemon balm has been shown to kill
some cancer cell lines, including breast cancer, colo-
rectal cancer, and aggressive brain cancers. Lemon
balm supports the body in fighting the cancer cells.

Regulates the Thyroid: Hyperthyroidism, or an
over-active thyroid benefits from the regular consump-
tion of lemon balm. People with Grave’s disease or
other over-active thyroid problems find that the oil,
tincture or extract helps regulate thyroid-binding
problems.
Warning: Lemon balm is considered safe for most
Aids in Digestion: Lemon balm extract has a pro- people, but should not be used by people on thyroid
tective effect on the gastrointestinal system and pre- medication or with underactive thyroids (Hypothy-
vents gastric ulcers. It aids digestion and is useful in roidism).
treating constipation as well as colic.
Consult a medical profession before using lemon balm
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Lemon regularly if you are pregnant or nursing. Possible side
balm extract is believed to reduce damage from plaque effects include headache, nausea, bloating, gas, indi-
forming proteins in Alzheimer’s disease. Regular ad- gestion, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Consult a
ministration of lemon balm extract increases cognitive doctor if you are taking other medications or planning
function over time and reduces agitation in Alz- surgical treatments.
heimer’s patients.
Recipes. Lemon Balm Tea: You will need: 1 ta-
The therapy is not a cure, but is observed to slow pro- blespoon fresh lemon balm leaves or 1t dried and 1 cup
gression and help promote mild improvements. As an boiling water. Tear the leaves into small pieces and put
anti-oxidant it may help protect the brain from neuro- into a tea ball, or filter the leaves after brewing.
degeneration and oxidative damage.
Pour boiling water over the tea leaves or ball and allow
Lemon Balm also improves memory and problem solv- to infuse for 5 minutes. Keep the pot or cup covered
ing in people of all ages and health levels including Alz- while brewing and drinking to retain the beneficial ar-
heimer’s patients. omatics.
Heals Skin and Reduces Signs of Aging: Peo- Lemon Balm Extract/Tincture: Ingredients: 1-
ple who use lemon balm on their skin report that it re- pint (500ml) jar with a tight-fitting lid, 80 proof or
duces wrinkles and fine lines giving the skin a more higher vodka or another alcoholic beverage. Wash and
youthful appearance. It is particularly beneficial in dry the leaves and crush them lightly.
supporting the skin against minor blemishes and infec- Fill the jar 3/4 full with leaves and pour the vodka, fill-
tions.
ing the jar completely. Cap and store in a cool, dark
Harvesting: Left alone, lemon balm may take over place, shaking periodically. After 4 to 6 weeks, strain
the garden. Several bouts of pruning keep the plant in and label.
check. Clip off stems or remove individual leaves for

99