What is the country of origin for lemon balm?
The Herb Section – Lemon Balm Lemon balm is a member of the mint family, as can be seen by the leaves, and is often called lemon mint. It is indigenous to the mountainous regions of southern Europe. The Swiss physician Paracelsus called it the “elexir of life”. It has always been associated with the relieving of melancholy, and is used today in aromatherapy to combat depression. Lemon balm likes moist, rich soils and filtered shade. It dies down in winter and benefits from being cut back hard to encourage spring growth. Small plants can be grown in pots indoors, but they do need a little light and sun. Lemon grass attracts bees and is generally beneficial to surrounding plants. It loves being picked. DOMESTIC USES Lemon grass makes a lovely ingredient for potpourris, and hung in bunches in a cupboard, will deter moths. In beekeeping, rub a handful of the green leaves over the wooden surface of the hive, and a new swarm of bees will be there for keeps. Rub a handful of the green leaves
