Is peppermint tea beneficial for GERD. What are the effects of peppermint on the digestive system. How does peppermint tea impact the lower esophageal sphincter. What are the recommended alternatives for managing GERD symptoms. How can lifestyle changes help alleviate GERD.

Understanding GERD: Causes, Symptoms, and Common Misconceptions

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach contents, particularly acid, flow back into the esophagus, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Many individuals seek natural remedies to manage their GERD symptoms, and peppermint tea has gained popularity as a potential solution. However, it’s crucial to understand the facts behind this misconception and explore more effective alternatives.

What is GERD?

GERD is a digestive disorder characterized by the regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach, becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately. The most common symptoms of GERD include:

• Heartburn
• Acid regurgitation
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chronic cough
• Hoarseness
• Tooth erosion

In severe cases, GERD can lead to more serious complications, such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even esophageal cancer. Therefore, proper management of GERD symptoms is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

The Peppermint Tea Misconception

Peppermint tea has long been touted as a natural remedy for various digestive issues. Its popularity stems from the herb’s antispasmodic properties and ability to reduce gas buildup in the digestive system. For thousands of years, peppermint has been used to address conditions such as constipation, bloating, cramps, and diarrhea. However, when it comes to GERD, the use of peppermint tea can actually exacerbate symptoms rather than provide relief.

The Science Behind Peppermint Tea and GERD

To understand why peppermint tea is not recommended for GERD, it’s important to examine its effects on the digestive system, particularly the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

How Does Peppermint Affect the LES?

Peppermint contains menthol, a compound that relaxes smooth muscles throughout the body. While this relaxation effect can be beneficial for some digestive issues, it poses a problem for individuals with GERD. The LES is a ring of smooth muscle that acts as a barrier between the stomach and esophagus. When peppermint relaxes this sphincter, it allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus more easily, exacerbating GERD symptoms.

The Paradox of Peppermint’s Digestive Effects

Why does peppermint tea help with some digestive issues but worsen GERD symptoms? The answer lies in its dual action on the digestive system:

1. Relaxation of stomach muscles: This can aid digestion and reduce bloating.
2. Relaxation of the LES: This increases the likelihood of acid reflux.

For individuals without GERD, the benefits of peppermint tea may outweigh the potential for reflux. However, for those with GERD, the relaxation of the LES can significantly worsen symptoms and potentially lead to more frequent episodes of acid reflux.

Alternative Herbal Remedies for GERD

While peppermint tea is not recommended for GERD, there are other herbal remedies that may provide relief without the risk of worsening symptoms.

Chamomile and Meadowsweet: A Soothing Combination

One alternative to peppermint tea is a blend of chamomile and meadowsweet. This combination offers several potential benefits for individuals with GERD:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: May help reduce inflammation in the esophagus
• Antispasmodic effects: Can help relieve digestive discomfort
• Soothing properties: May help calm irritated tissues

It’s important to note that while chamomile is generally considered safe, some herbalists caution against excessive use during pregnancy. Meadowsweet should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with any herbal remedy, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist before regular consumption, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Other Herbal Options for GERD Relief

In addition to chamomile and meadowsweet, several other herbs have shown promise in managing GERD symptoms:

• Licorice root: May help increase mucus production, protecting the esophagus from acid
• Marshmallow root: Contains mucilage, which can coat and soothe the esophagus
• Slippery elm: Forms a protective layer in the digestive tract, potentially reducing irritation
• Ginger: May help improve digestion and reduce inflammation

As with any herbal remedy, it’s essential to use these options under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may interact with medications or have contraindications for certain health conditions.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage GERD Symptoms

While herbal remedies can be helpful, making certain lifestyle changes is often the most effective way to manage GERD symptoms in the long term.

Dietary Modifications

Certain foods and beverages can trigger or worsen GERD symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with GERD. Common dietary triggers include:

• Spicy foods
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Tomato-based products
• Chocolate
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Fatty or fried foods
• Carbonated beverages

Keeping a food diary can help identify personal triggers and guide dietary choices.

Weight Management

Excess weight, particularly around the abdominal area, can increase pressure on the stomach and LES, leading to more frequent episodes of acid reflux. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce GERD symptoms.

Eating Habits

How and when you eat can also impact GERD symptoms. Consider the following tips:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
• Avoid lying down within 3 hours of eating
• Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce pressure on the abdomen

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and altering digestive processes. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into daily life can help manage symptoms:

• Meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep

The Role of Sleep Positioning in GERD Management

The position in which you sleep can significantly impact the frequency and severity of nighttime GERD symptoms. Gravity plays a crucial role in preventing stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus, and adjusting your sleep position can help harness this natural force.

Elevating the Head of the Bed

Raising the head of your bed by 6-8 inches can help reduce nighttime reflux. This can be achieved by:

• Using bed risers under the legs at the head of the bed
• Placing a wedge pillow under the mattress
• Using an adjustable bed frame

It’s important to note that simply using extra pillows to prop up your head is not as effective, as this can create an unnatural bend in the body that may increase pressure on the stomach.

Sleeping on the Left Side

Research has shown that sleeping on the left side can help reduce GERD symptoms. This position may help keep the junction between the stomach and esophagus above the level of stomach acid, reducing the likelihood of reflux.

When to Seek Medical Attention for GERD

While lifestyle changes and natural remedies can be effective for managing mild to moderate GERD symptoms, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. Persistent or severe symptoms may require medical intervention to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

Warning Signs

Consider consulting a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

• Frequent heartburn (more than twice a week)
• Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent hoarseness or chronic cough
• Chest pain (always seek immediate medical attention to rule out heart-related issues)
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools

Diagnostic Procedures

If your healthcare provider suspects GERD, they may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic procedures:

• Upper endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted down the throat to examine the esophagus and stomach
• Esophageal pH monitoring: Measures acid levels in the esophagus over 24-48 hours
• Esophageal manometry: Assesses the function of the LES and esophageal muscles
• Barium swallow: X-rays are taken after swallowing a chalky liquid to visualize the esophagus and stomach

Advanced Treatment Options for Chronic GERD

For individuals with severe or persistent GERD that doesn’t respond to lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments, more advanced options may be necessary.

Medications

Several types of medications can help manage GERD symptoms and promote healing of the esophagus:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid production
• H2 receptor blockers: Decrease stomach acid production
• Antacids: Neutralize stomach acid
• Prokinetics: Improve stomach emptying and strengthen the LES

It’s important to use these medications under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as long-term use of certain drugs may have side effects or interactions with other medications.

Surgical Interventions

In cases where medications and lifestyle changes are ineffective, surgical options may be considered:

• Fundoplication: A surgical procedure that reinforces the LES
• LINX device: A ring of magnetic beads is placed around the junction of the stomach and esophagus to strengthen the LES
• Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF): A less invasive procedure that tightens the LES without external incisions

These surgical interventions can provide long-term relief for many individuals with chronic GERD, but they also carry risks and potential complications. A thorough discussion with a gastroenterologist or surgeon is essential to determine the best course of action for each individual case.

The Future of GERD Treatment: Emerging Therapies and Research

As our understanding of GERD continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new treatments and approaches to managing this common condition. Several promising areas of research may lead to improved therapies in the future.

Personalized Medicine

Advances in genetic testing and biomarker analysis may allow for more personalized treatment approaches. By identifying specific genetic factors or physiological characteristics that contribute to GERD, healthcare providers may be able to tailor treatments more effectively to individual patients.

Microbiome Modulation

Growing evidence suggests that the gut microbiome plays a role in various digestive disorders, including GERD. Research into probiotics, prebiotics, and other microbiome-modulating therapies may lead to new treatment options that address the root causes of GERD rather than just managing symptoms.

Novel Pharmaceutical Approaches

Researchers are investigating new classes of drugs that may offer improved efficacy and fewer side effects compared to current medications. Some areas of focus include:

• Potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs): A new class of acid suppressants that may work faster and more effectively than PPIs
• GABA(B) receptor agonists: Drugs that may help strengthen the LES and reduce transient LES relaxations
• Mast cell stabilizers: Medications that may help reduce inflammation and hypersensitivity in the esophagus

As research in these areas progresses, individuals with GERD may have access to more effective and targeted treatment options in the coming years.

In conclusion, while peppermint tea is not recommended for managing GERD symptoms, there are numerous alternative approaches to alleviating discomfort and improving quality of life for those affected by this condition. From herbal remedies and lifestyle modifications to advanced medical treatments and emerging therapies, the field of GERD management continues to evolve. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals with GERD can develop personalized strategies to effectively manage their symptoms and maintain optimal digestive health.

peppermint tea for GERD

Peppermint tea for GERD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) is a commonly-tried method of symptom management. However, it is in fact strongly contra-indicated for this condition.

GERD, as it most commonly known, is a condition where contents from the stomach, notably acid, protrude up into the oesophagus. The mots noticeable symptoms are heartburn and acid regurgitation. There may also be damage to teeth through acid exposure, bad breath, chest pain, and even vomiting and breathing difficulties.

We all know that healthcare starts with ourselves, and the choices we make can have powerful impact upon some chronic and acute health conditions. However, there is a popular misconception about the supposed benefits of peppermint tea for GERD.

Peppermint has traditionally been used to aid digestion due to its antispasmodic properties and its ability to reduce build up of gas in the digestive system. This means that is has been used for thousands of years to address constipation, bloating, cramps, and diarrhoea.

Peppermint tea for GERD? Not such a good idea for this gastro-intestinal problem

However when it comes to drinking peppermint tea for GERD, as opposed to some other digestive issues, there is a problem. GERD occurs when the sphincter that separates the oesophagus from the stomach allows regurgitation of acid. Normally, substances flow in one direction only from the oesophagus into the stomach, but with GERD acid flows back up into the oesophagus. Peppermint tea is effective at relaxing the stomach muscles and thus aiding digestion, but it also relaxes the oesophageal sphincter, enabling further acid back up into the oesophagus. So it is, in fact, one of the worst things you can drink if you do suffer from GERD.

An alternative would be to try drinking chamomile mixed with meadowsweet. This is another traditional tea that has used been used for digestive issues. This combination has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties and can help to relieve a wide variety of digestive issues. (While not strictly contra-indicated, some herbalists do caution against excessive use of chamomile in pregnancy. Meadowsweet certainly must be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding. As with all medicinal herbs, there may be other contra-indications that might apply to you, so it important to do a little research or to speak to a fully-trained herbalist before regular consumption. However, in the vast majority of cases, there should be no complication and hopefully great benefits.)

There are known risk factors associated with GERD, such as obesity, pregnancy, stress, smoking, and excessive consumption of alcohol or fat. So if you cannot look to peppermint tea for GERD symptom relief, as you might have hoped, you can try to address lifestyle matters, such as reducing stress levels, stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol and fatty foods, and reducing weight if you are overweight.

Another very important tip is to avoid lying down within three hours of eating. This should help to reduce symptoms.

To find out more about GERD, please go to:

https://www.webmd.boots.com/heartburn-gord/guide/gastro-oesophageal-reflux-gord

If you think you suffer from digestive symptoms that may have a strong emotional component, you can find out more about acupuncture treatment and stress/anxiety at:

Stress & Anxiety

Is Peppermint Tea Good For Acid Reflux?

Peppermint tea has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat digestive problems such as indigestion and acid reflux. So, is peppermint tea good for acid reflux?

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common digestive disorder. It occurs when stomach acid or other stomach contents flow back into the esophagus and cause pain or discomfort. 

Also read up on the benefits of Cinnamon Tea or Lemongrass Tea!

What Is Peppermint Tea?

Peppermint tea is made from dried peppermint leaves infused in hot water to make a herbal infusion. It has been used for centuries to relieve digestive issues like indigestion, nausea, headaches, and muscle pain.

Peppermint tea contains several beneficial compounds, including menthol and rosmarinic acid, which are believed to be the source of its medicinal properties.

Is Peppermint Tea Good For Acid Reflux?

The active ingredients in peppermint may help to relax the muscle sphincter that separates the stomach from the esophagus, thus helping to reduce symptoms of reflux.

The menthol in peppermint is thought to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mucous membranes.

Research also suggests that drinking peppermint tea can help decrease gastric acid levels in the stomach, helping to reduce acid reflux episodes.

Peppermint tea may help speed digestion and relieve other digestive issues like bloating and cramping.

Does Peppermint Tea Cure Acid Reflux?

Peppermint tea can be a safe and effective remedy to reduce your symptoms. However, it is important to note that peppermint tea should not be used as a substitute for other treatments your doctor recommends.

Furthermore, individuals with certain conditions, such as ulcers or heartburn, may find that peppermint tea aggravates their symptoms and should avoid drinking it altogether.

If you are unsure if peppermint tea is right for you, talk to your health provider before using it as a treatment for acid reflux.

Drinking peppermint tea in moderation helps minimize the symptoms of acid reflux so that you can enjoy a healthy, balanced diet.

Benefits of Drinking Peppermint Tea for Acid Reflux:

• Can help to relax the sphincter muscle between the stomach and esophagus, thus reducing acid reflux episodes.
• Contains menthol, which may reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mucous membranes.
• May decrease levels of gastric acid in the stomach, helping to reduce acid reflux symptoms.
• Peppermint tea can help speed digestion and relieve other digestive issues like bloating and cramping.
• Can be a safe and effective remedy to reduce acid reflux symptoms when consumed in moderation.

Peppermint tea can benefit individuals suffering from mild-to-moderate levels of acid reflux if consumed in moderation.

However, if you experience more severe symptoms, it is recommended to consult your doctor for other treatment options.

People with certain conditions, such as ulcers or heartburn, should avoid drinking peppermint tea.

However, if you are healthy and do not have any pre-existing medical conditions, drinking peppermint tea can help relieve your symptoms.

Potential Side Effects of Peppermint Tea:

• Consuming peppermint tea in large quantities may aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux.
• Some people may be allergic to peppermint tea, leading to skin irritation, itching, and difficulty breathing.
• Peppermint tea may interact with certain medications and should not be consumed without consulting your doctor first.
• May cause heartburn or indigestion for some individuals.

It is important to note that these potential side effects are rare and only occur when peppermint tea is consumed excessively.

To avoid any adverse reactions, speaking with a healthcare professional before using peppermint tea as an alternative remedy is recommended.

How To Make Peppermint Tea?

• Use fresh, organic peppermint leaves instead of packaged teabags.
• Make sure to steep your tea for its recommended duration to get the most out of the medicinal compounds present in the plant.
• Don’t add extra sugar, as it aggravates acid reflux symptoms.
• Add a teaspoon of honey or lemon juice to sweeten your cup of tea without causing heartburn.
• Drink your cup of tea slowly and savor its flavor while you enjoy its benefits.

Finally, ensure you don’t drink too much peppermint tea, which can cause stomach pains and indigestion. It is best to start with a small amount (1-2 cups) and increase your intake as you feel comfortable.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the soothing benefits of peppermint tea without aggravating your acid reflux symptoms.

But most importantly, if you experience any signs or symptoms of acid reflux, contact your doctor immediately. With their help, you can find the treatment plan that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

FAQs:

Q: Is peppermint tea good for acid reflux?

A: Peppermint tea can benefit individuals suffering from mild-to-moderate levels of acid reflux if consumed in moderation. However, people with ulcers or heartburn should avoid drinking peppermint tea altogether.

It is also important to speak with a healthcare professional before using peppermint tea as an alternative remedy, as certain conditions may make it unsuitable.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using peppermint tea to treat acid reflux?

A: Potential side effects of drinking peppermint tea can include skin irritation, itching, difficulty breathing, and even heartburn or indigestion for some individuals.

However, these potential side effects are rare and only occur when peppermint tea is consumed excessively. It is best to start with a small amount (1-2 cups) and increase your intake as you feel comfortable.

Q: How should I prepare my cup of peppermint tea?

A: To get the most out of the medicinal compounds present in the plant, steep your tea for its recommended duration.

Don’t add any extra sugar, as it can aggravate reflux symptoms – instead, try adding a teaspoon of honey or lemon juice to sweeten your cup of tea.

Conclusion:

Peppermint tea can be a great way to ease the symptoms of acid reflux if drunk in moderation. It can help to relax the sphincter muscle between the stomach and esophagus, reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mucous membranes, among other benefits.

However, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using peppermint tea as an alternative remedy, as certain conditions may make it unsuitable.

Additionally, drinking too much peppermint tea can aggravate existing reflux symptoms, so always drink it in moderation.

With these tips in mind, you should be able to enjoy the soothing benefits of peppermint tea without any adverse effects!

More Healthy Herbal Teas:

1. Mint Tea
2. Ginger Tea
3. Rooibos Tea
4. Mullein Tea
5. Cerasee Tea
6. Rosehip Tea
7. Chaga Tea
8. Moringa Tea
9. Saffron Tea
10. Immunity Booster Tea
11. Pineapple Peel Tea
12. Fennel Tea

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HERPES (shingles)

peripheral nervous system, eyes, placenta. Herpes penetrates through the mucous membranes of the mouth, upper respiratory tract and genital organs. Having overcome tissue barriers, the virus enters the blood and lymph, and then enters various internal organs. The virus penetrates into sensitive nerve endings and is integrated into the genetic apparatus of nerve cells. After that, it is impossible to remove the virus from the body, it will remain with the person for life. The immune system reacts to the penetration of herpes by producing specific antibodies that block viral particles circulating in the blood. The awakening of the infection in the cold season, with colds, with hypovitaminosis is characteristic. The reproduction of herpes in the cells of the epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes leads to the development of dystrophy and cell death. Correction of herpes is aimed at strengthening the immune system and preventing exacerbation of the disease.

Recommended Products:

Grapefruit Seed Extract, Tea Tree Essential Oil, Immune Guard, Acerola, Nigenol, Vital Plus, Peppermint Green Tea, Tea Tree Cream.

The product of choice is Grapefruit Seed Extract, which contains flavonoids naringin, hesperidin, quercetin, which have an antiherpetic effect. The terpenes of tea tree essential oil have an antiherpetic effect. Helps to resist exacerbations of herpes “Immun Fit” (echinacoside, vitamin C). It has an immunomodulatory effect and stimulates non-specific human defense factors. “Acerola” stimulates the immune system, activates the function of the adrenal glands, increasing the mechanisms of adaptation. The anti-inflammatory effect is achieved by prescribing “Nigenol”, “Vital Plus”, which contain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which are precursors of eicosanoic fatty acids – eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA), from which families of biologically active compounds are formed that have a multilateral effect on various aspects of metabolism – eicosanoids. These include prostaglandins (PG), prostacyclins (PGI), thromboxanes (TO) – prostanoids and leukotrienes (LT).

At the same time, PUFAs reduce the secretion of biogenic amines (adrenaline, norepinephrine, histamine and serotonin) – inflammatory mediators and stimulate the formation of the histamine enzyme and the production of antihistamine antibodies. The cyclooxygenase enzyme supplied by Nigenol provides a high coefficient of antiserotonin reaction, as a result of which the therapeutic effect of PUFA is achieved. “Green tea with mint” – an antioxidant that has an immunostimulating effect. Tea tree cream and tea tree essential oil, when applied topically, have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Internal use:
Grapefruit seed extract (if not allergic): 3-5 drops in a glass of boiled water, taken 1-2 times a day 30 minutes before meals. Kups 4 weeks, 1 pack or
Tea tree oil (if not allergic!): 1 drop 2 times a day in milk or bread capsule. Take after meals. Reception courses can be repeated as needed with a week break between them. Course 3 Renel, 1 pack,
Immun Fit: 1 tbsp. spoon 2-4 times a day with meals. Course 2-4 weeks, 3-6 packs;
Acerola (Tropical Cherry Tablets): 1 tablet 2-3 times daily with meals. Course 1 month, 1-2 packs.
Nigenol: 1 capsule daily with meals. Course 1 month, 1 pack.
Omega 3 Forte (Fish Oil + Krill Oil) capsules or Vital plus: 1-2 capsules 3 times a day with meals. Course 1-1.5 months, 2-5 packs.
Green tea with mint: 1 tablet 2-3 times a day to dissolve after meals. Course 1-2 weeks, 1 pack.

External use:
Tea tree oil (in the absence of allergies!): Lubricate bubble rashes with pure oil 2-3 times a day until the crusts completely fall off.
Cream with tea tree oil: lubricate the area of ​​blisters 2-3 times a day.
Tea tree oil: (in the absence of allergies!) 15 drops of essential oil + 10 ml 70 deg. Ethyl alcohol + 90 ml of distilled water. Lubricate the affected areas of the body with this solution 3-4 times a day. Relieves itching, pain, stimulates the immune system. Indicated in genital herpes.

Recommended Vivasan products are listed in descending order of their effect or importance.
The products in bold type are the products that need to be used first, are the main ones.

Melissa: Benefits, Contraindications, Usage

Melissa: Unsplash / Victor Serban

Melissa is one of the best known sedative herbs. However, the beneficial properties of the herb are much more extensive. How lemon balm affects the body, can it harm and how to use it correctly, said Dan Brennan and PubMed.

Description, composition and benefits of lemon balm

Melissa is a genus of perennial herbaceous plants of the Lamiaceae family. They are widely distributed in Central Asia, USA, Europe, Africa. Melissa prefers well-lit places, she can be found on the edges of forests. It can also grow in shady areas, but in this case it gives a small yield.

Melissa is called “melissophyllon” in Greek, which translates as ‘bee leaf’. The plant received such a name for its excellent honey qualities and for the love of bees for it. Because of this, the people call grass honey, queen bee, bee, swarm. Due to the strong refreshing aroma of lemon and the resemblance to ordinary mint, the plant is often referred to as lemon mint. However, lemon balm is an independent plant, although it has a family (laminaceae) in common with mint.

What is the difference between lemon balm and mint? Mint is an upright plant that has a pronounced stem. Melissa, on the other hand, consists of several stems that form a bush. Mint leaves are oblong, with sharp ends and a smooth surface, rich green. Melissa leaves are rounded, velvety to the touch, light green. Plants also differ in height: mint does not grow more than 50 cm, and lemon balm can reach a height of 80 cm.

The flowers of the two herbs are similar, the difference lies in the color. Melissa buds are painted in a pale blue hue, collected in rings, and mint inflorescences are distinguished by a purple hue, collected in a spikelet. Mint practically does not bear fruit, and in lemon balm this process occurs annually. The round fruits are egg-like, and the seeds are oblong in shape.

It is unlikely that you will be able to confuse the smell of these plants. In mint, it is pronounced, menthol. Melissa, on the other hand, is more restrained, sweetish, reeking of lemon, as stated in an article by a WebMD medical source.

Melissa differs from mint in appearance and aroma: Unsplash / Alice Butenko

Composition

Melissa is an essential oil crop. It contains up to 0.3% essential oils, in selective species their concentration can reach 0.8%. The plant got its alluring smell thanks to neral and geranial – isomers of citral. These elements help to cope with infections and inflammatory processes.

Lemon balm contains substances that help with circulatory disorders, capillary fragility, lower blood cholesterol levels, and prevent diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Melissa contains vitamins B₁, B₂, B₅, B₆, C. There are many macroelements in the herb: calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron. Are in the composition and trace elements: copper, manganese, zinc, selenium, chromium, vanadium.

Why is lemon balm useful?

Melissa’s most well-known and pronounced effect is calming. The essential oil plant is also distinguished by such properties as:

• antidepressant;
• antihypertensive;
• antispasmodic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antioxidant;
• antiviral;
• expectorant;
• laxative;
• antiemetic;
• choleretic.

Since ancient times, the herb has been used as a sedative. It helps to cope with stress, neurosis, calm the nerves, improve sleep.

What does melissa herb treat?

According to Dan Brennan, MD, the fragrant plant has a positive effect on various organs and systems of the body:

• Fights herpes. Melissa accelerates the healing of herpes and relieves symptoms in the early stages.
• Helps to manage Alzheimer’s disease. Improves concentration, increases efficiency, cognitive functions, strengthens memory. Therefore, the plant is able to reverse the negative effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Minimizes menstrual cramps.
• Has a positive effect on digestion, relieves nausea.
• Reduces blood pressure readings.
• Combats coronary heart disease and tachyarrhythmias.
• Treats gastritis and colitis, dysbacteriosis.
• Relieves headache, joint and toothache, relaxes muscles.
• Stops the symptoms of skin diseases (dermatitis, eczema, trophic ulcers).
• Improves flu, cough.

Even pregnant women can use Melissa if they have no contraindications. For women who are expecting a baby, lemon balm will help to cope with toxicosis and improve sleep. The herb is used to treat colic, diarrhea in newborns, as stated in a PubMed article.

Melissa is used to treat diarrhea and colic in newborns: Unsplash / Jonathan Borba

Uses of lemon balm, possible harm and contraindications

Melissa is actively used in cooking. A plant with a refreshing lemon flavor is added to salads, soups, both fresh and dried. Often the herb becomes an additional ingredient when pickling tomatoes and cucumbers. Drinks with lemon balm have no less pleasant taste. Fragrant teas, liqueurs and cocktails are prepared from it.

The plant has gained popularity in cosmetology. The essential oils included in its composition soften the skin, improve its color, promote the healing of wounds and rashes, rejuvenate the epidermis, get rid of dandruff and brittle hair.

Use in folk medicine

Melissa is a reliable helper for many health problems. Folk healers prepare effective remedies based on the plant:

• Tea. Pour boiling water over fresh or dry lemon balm leaves, strain after 15 minutes and enjoy a pleasant taste. You can add lemon balm leaves to regular black or green tea. What is useful tea from lemon balm? It improves mood, helps to get out of depression, calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety.
• Decoction. The tool helps with diseases of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, neuroses. Fill the herb with hot water, send to a water bath for 10 minutes, strain and drink three times a day.
• Infusion. It is used as a compress for the treatment of arthritis, bruises, rashes and ulcers. Add lemon balm to a thermos and pour boiling water, leave to infuse for an hour, strain.

Mint tea soothes, improves mood: Unsplash / Louis Hansel

To improve the condition of aging skin, make lemon balm ice. To give the skin a radiance and a healthy look, combine a decoction of the herb and a small amount of grape seed oil. Pour the composition into ice molds, freeze and wipe your face for 12 days. Remember that it is forbidden to use ice for rosacea.

Melissa will also help those with dry skin, making it supple and soft to the touch. To prepare the lotion, make cucumber water. Cut the cucumber, fill it with sparkling water, leave for a day, and then strain. Extract juice from lemon balm, add it to cucumber water and wipe your face after washing.

Make a mask with lemon balm to improve the condition of your hair. Mix a decoction of the plant with sour cream and chicken yolk, then apply to curls and rinse after 30 minutes.

Possible harm and contraindications

Why is lemon balm harmful? Melissa reduces blood pressure, it is forbidden to use it for hypotension. Contraindications to taking the plant are individual intolerance and hypothyroidism. An overdose leads to the appearance of such undesirable symptoms:

• dizziness;
• lethargy, fatigue, drowsiness;
• deterioration in concentration;
• nausea and vomiting;
• heartburn, diarrhoea, constipation;
• convulsions and muscle weakness.

Lemon balm products should be used with caution when driving and operating dangerous machinery. In order not to provoke the occurrence of these symptoms, carefully observe the dosage of the plant and follow the recommendations for use.