Herbs

Lemon balm

Also called: melissa

A mint-family herb.

Why people take it
Stress, sleep, cold sores (cream).
What the evidence says
Small studies only.
How it is usually taken
Usually 300 to 600 mg of extract a day, or as tea.
Be careful
Generally safe short term. May affect thyroid medicine.
Medicines it can interact with
May add to sedatives and affect thyroid medicines.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomilePassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicoriceBoswellia

Common questions

What is Lemon balm?

A mint-family herb.

Why do people take Lemon balm?

Stress, sleep, cold sores (cream).

Does Lemon balm work?

Small studies only.

How much Lemon balm do people take?

Usually 300 to 600 mg of extract a day, or as tea.

Is Lemon balm safe?

Generally safe short term. May affect thyroid medicine.

Does Lemon balm interact with medicines?

May add to sedatives and affect thyroid medicines.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

🔎 Search all supplements

For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.