As July rolls into the Fox Cities, we are greeted by the peak of summer. It is a season of neighborhood block parties, evening walks, and the familiar hum of cicadas in the warm, humid air. But with the busy pace of summer activities—and the sweltering Wisconsin heat—it is easy to feel a little overwhelmed.
For July, the Grand Chute Gazette is highlighting an herb that perfectly mirrors our mission of uplifting the community and fostering a positive spirit: Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis).
Known to herbalists for centuries as the “gladdening herb,” Lemon Balm is a vibrant, bright green member of the mint family that thrives in our local summer gardens, bringing a burst of citrusy joy wherever it grows.
The Herb of Sunshine and Serenity
If you brush your hand against a patch of Lemon Balm, the air is instantly filled with a sweet, crisp lemon scent. That aroma isn’t just pleasant; it is packed with volatile oils that have a profound effect on the human nervous system.
- Uplifting the Spirit: In traditional herbalism, Lemon Balm is famous for its ability to lift a heavy heart and ease feelings of stress and mild anxiety. It is the perfect gentle remedy to help you unwind after a long, hot day.
- Cooling and Calming: Lemon Balm is considered a “cooling” herb. When enjoyed as an iced tea, it helps gently lower the body’s internal temperature, making it an ideal companion for a humid July afternoon in Grand Chute.
- Soothing Summer Tummies: From backyard barbecues to county fair food, summer eating can sometimes upset our digestion. Lemon Balm is a mild antispasmodic, helping to relax a nervous or overworked stomach.
- A Natural Bug Deterrent: The plant contains citronellal—the same compound found in citronella candles. If you are sitting on the porch at dusk, you can crush a few fresh Lemon Balm leaves in your hands and rub them on your arms and legs to help deter mosquitoes.
Growing Lemon Balm in Grand Chute
Lemon Balm is incredibly easy to grow in our Zone 4/5 climate. In fact, because it is in the mint family, it is an enthusiastic grower!
If you are planting it this summer, it is wise to keep it in a pot or a contained raised bed so it doesn’t take over your entire garden. It loves the morning sun and a little afternoon shade. The more you trim it, the bushier and happier it gets. Harvesting the top third of the plant just before it produces its tiny white flowers will yield the most potent, flavorful leaves.
Recipe: Midsummer “Porch Swing” Sun Tea
There is nothing quite like harnessing the power of the July sun to brew a gentle, uplifting tea that the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 large handful of fresh Lemon Balm leaves (washed)
- 1 small sprig of fresh Peppermint or Spearmint (optional)
- 1 quart of cold, filtered water
- Honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
- Bruise the Leaves: Gently roll and crush the fresh leaves in your hands just until you smell the strong lemon scent. This breaks the cell walls and releases the essential oils.
- Steep in the Sun: Place the leaves in a large glass jar (like a mason jar) and cover them with the cold water. Seal the jar tightly.
- Brew: Set the jar outside in a sunny spot for 3 to 4 hours. The slow, gentle heat of the sun will extract the delicate flavors without making the tea bitter.
- Chill and Serve: Bring the jar inside, strain out the leaves, and stir in a little honey if desired. Serve over a glass full of ice.
A Critical Safety Reminder
Lemon Balm is generally considered one of the safest and gentlest herbs for all ages. However, because it can have a mild inhibitory effect on the thyroid, individuals with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or those taking prescription thyroid medications should consult their doctor before consuming Lemon Balm regularly.
The Grand Chute Gazette does not offer medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before adding new herbs or supplements to your routine, especially if you have an underlying health condition.
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