Lemon balm tea has a light, lemony flavor and seems to have health-promoting properties.
In a small study in 28 people who drank either barley tea or lemon balm tea for six weeks, the lemon balm tea group had improved elasticity of the arteries. Arterial stiffness is considered a risk factor for heart disease, stroke and mental decline.
In the same study, those who drank lemon balm tea also had increased skin elasticity, which typically tends to decline with age. However, the study was of poor quality.
Another small study in radiology workers found that drinking lemon balm tea twice a day for one month increased the body’s natural antioxidant enzymes, which help protect the body from oxidative damage to cells and DNA.
As a result, participants also showed improved markers of lipid and DNA damage.
Preliminary evidence has also suggested that lemon balm may improve high blood lipid levels.
Furthermore, a number of studies have shown that lemon balm improved mood and mental performance.
Two studies including 20 participants evaluated the effects of different dosages of lemon balm extract. They found improvements in both calmness and memory.
Another small study found that lemon balm extract helped reduce stress and improve math processing skills.
Finally, another small study found that lemon balm tea reduced the frequency of heart palpitations and anxiety.
Lemon balm tea may offer a number of potential health benefits and would make a good addition to any herbal tea collection.
Summary: Preliminary studies have found that lemon balm tea may improve antioxidant levels, heart
and skin health and even aid in relieving anxiety.