Melissa (Lemon Balm), Rectified

Product Details

Botanical name

Melissa officinalis

Extraction method / Source

Steam Distillation (Rectified) / Leaves and flowering tops

Aroma

Fresh, herbaceous, citrus, sweet

Note classification

Top, Middle

Odor Intensity

3

Key constituents

Geranial, neral, caryophyllene

Plant description

Botanical family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

Melissa is a sweetly fragrant perennial herb which grows to 3 feet in height and produces soft green serrated leaves and tiny pink or white flowers.

Regions of Production

France

Growing Practices

Cultivated without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

History / Fun Facts

Properties

Antibacterial, antidepressant, anti-fungal, antispasmodic, antiviral (herpes), carminative, cordial, diaphoretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, nervine, sedative, sudorific, tonic

Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.

Uses / Benefits

Helps to lower blood pressure and slow respirations, heart tonic. Helps stimulate gallbladder and liver, aids digestion, reduces flatulence. Helps relieve painful menses. Can be used for oily skin and acne, however there is a moderate risk of skin irritation or sensitivity, so use caution. Highly effective in treating herpes lesions. Used in natural perfume making.

Fragrant influences

Uplifting, helps alleviate nervousness and stress, reduces anger. Promotes intuition and sensitivity, supports wisdom of the heart. Comforting during bereavement.

Modes of Administration

Topical: Can be used undiluted on herpes blisters, using care to apply only to the lesions and not to the surrounding skin. Use with carrier of choice for treating acne or oily skin.

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer.

Blends well with

Roman Chamomile, Frankincense, Geranium, Neroli, Petitgrain, Rose

Safety

Use with caution if you have low blood pressure. Moderate risk of skin irritation. Melissa is one of the most commonly adulterated oils, so make sure you have a reliable source.

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.