How to Make a Cup of Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm tea is a soothing drink.

As a member of the mint family, the herb lemon balm -- Melissa officinalis -- is named for its natural lemon scent and flavor. Prepared as an herbal tea, it can offer a calm, soothing aroma. Lemon balm tea is a mild sedative and can relieve stress and relax you before bedtime. Dried lemon balm can be purchased in health food stores and used to make a relaxing, enjoyable tea.

Things You'll Need

• Dried lemon balm
• Tea ball
• Teapot

Instructions

1. Bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan on the stove. Turn the heat down to the lowest level to keep the water hot.

2. Place 1 tsp. of lemon balm into a tea ball and put in a teapot. Pour hot water into the teapot and place a lid on to prevent the medicinal components from being steamed away into the air. Leave the tea in the hot water to steep for 10 minutes.

3. Remove the tea ball. Add honey or sugar as desired and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use a tea strainer instead of a tea ball if you prefer.

• If the tea is left to steep longer than 10 minutes, it could become bitter.

References

• My Little Garden in Japan; How to Make Lemon Balm Tea; May 2011