Lemon balm tea is an herbal tea made from the plant known by the botanical name Melissa officinalis. The plant is also frequently called common balm and balm mint. Lemon balm has a long history of culinary use dating back to the times of the Ancient Greeks. The lemon balm plant is native to Europe and Africa along the Mediterranean region. It is has been used for centuries in this region as a natural herbal remedy. Some purported health benefits of lemon balm tea include stress reduction, infection prevention, and improved sleep. Studies also show that lemon balm tea may help reduce anxiety and depression by targeting the nervous system. Additional research shows that drinking lemon balm tea may help reduce blood pressure and protect the heart from serious cardiovascular disease.
