MELISSA OFFICINALIS

FAMILY: LAMIACEAE
LEMON BALM: Having been cultivated for over 2000 years, this refreshingly lemon-scented and -tasting herb was so popular in Europe that it was called Thé de France. The Arabs introduced it medicinally, specifically for treating anxiety and depression. It’s carminative, antispasmodic and diaphoretic. Used in the liqueurs Benedictine and Chartreuse. Must be used fresh.