What Is the Scientific Evidence for Lemon Balm?
Numerous test tube studies have found that extracts of lemon balm possess antiviral properties. 1-3 We don’t really know how it works, but the predominant theory is that the herb blocks viruses from attaching to cells. 4 One double-blind, placebo-controlled study followed 66 individuals who were just starting to develop a cold sore (oral herpes). 5 Treatment with melissa cream produced significant benefits on day 2, reducing intensity of discomfort, number of blisters, and the size of the lesion. (The researchers specifically looked at day 2 because, according to them, that is when symptoms are most pronounced.) Another double-blind study followed 116 individuals with oral or genital herpes. 4 Participants used either melissa cream or placebo cream for up to 10 days. The results showed that use of the herb resulted in a significantly better rate of recovery than those given placebo. Relatively informal observations suggest that regular use of lemon balm cream may help reduce the freque
