You are here: Q&A->
Page 40->Lemon Balm to enhance mood
Lemon Balm to enhance mood
Can you tell me anything about the use of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) for mood enhancement. Also, where can I get it from and what dosage should I take?
Traditionally, herbalists have used lemon balm as a remedy for melancholia and scientists have subsequently shown that it really does have both a calming and mood-boosting effect on the brain.
Even used as an aromatherapy oil, lemon balm can have a dramatic impact on the brain. In one double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, where 71 patients suffering from severe dementia were given four weeks of treatment, all were deemed to be less agitated, less withdrawn and more constructively active compared with the placebo control group.
In a recent study reported in the journal Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behaviour, UK researchers investigating the use of lemon balm for both mood elevation and cognitive performance in healthy, young student volunteers aged between 18 and 22 found it was much more effective at a lower dose of 300mg a day than at either 600mg or 900mg. They also suggested that splitting the dose throughout the day would be even more beneficial. Again, this confirms the traditional herbal adage that sometimes, less is more.
In light of these findings, I suggest you use a brand which provides 100mg of standardised extract of lemon balm per tablet and take three a day. If you cannot find one locally, mail order from Revital (0800-252 875) where 60 veggie caps cost £14.95.