What inspired me to write this little blog is the fact that a friend has experienced noticeable relief from chronic, dry cough for more than several hours after drinking warm, Lemon Balm herbal tea. This was the first cough relief she’s had since January this year. All remedies prior, from cough syrups, lozenges, anti-cough teas, increased water consumption, to acupuncture gave little more than temporary relief, if any.
Being stuck indoors in the winter, breathing stagnant, recycled, overly-dry air takes its toll on our lungs. Dried out tissues become more vulnerable and make the perfect breeding ground for pathogens. The body sensing the presence of pathogens then creates more mucus to entrap them, but since the body has become too dried out and weak the mucus adheres to the lungs obstructing deep breathing. The body will try to clear the thickened mucus with constant coughing but to no avail. The key is to keep the interior of the body warm and moist with proper blood and lymph circulation. To do this requires fresh air, movement, adequate sleep and proper nutrition which are sometimes hard to come by in our busy, stress-filled lives.
Lemon balm tea is easy enough to purchase, and the lemon balm plant is SUPER easy to grow. In fact, like all members of the mint family, it will literally take over your garden if you don’t contain it. Pictured above is lemon balm I brought over from my last house, and it’s taking off like a rocket in this five gallon container! It makes an ideal plant for gardeners who live in apartments and have access to a sunny window, balcony or rooftop container garden.
Herbal remedies have been successfully utilized for millennia because, having evolved alongside the human species, they resonate with the needs of the human body. Lemon Balm is one such example, for it has shown to:
- relieve hypertension / anxiety
- boost immunity
- break fevers
- reduce herpes virus
- soothe digestion
- reduce bloating / flatulence
- reduce nausea
- reduce headache
- relieve insect bites
I hope you found this information useful and will pass it on to others who may benefit. As with any herbal remedy, please check with your primary care physician if you are already taking medication, pregnant/breastfeeding, or preparing for surgery.
sources:
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/lemon-balm-tea.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711399800130?via%3Dihub
https://www.healthline.com/health/lemon-balm-uses#takeaway
*Health Disclaimer:
Herbal information provided here is not intended to replace licensed medical care. I cannot/will not prescribe, diagnose, or “treat” in medical terms. This blog is intended to heighten your awareness of the natural world of healing with plants. You are encouraged to do further research on your own behalf, consult with a qualified Naturopath or other experienced healthcare practitioner of your choice. Ultimately, you are responsible for the choices you make related to maintaining your health and well-being.
Regina Chante 