How to Use Citronella Lemon Balm
Despite its name, lemon balm is actually a member of the mint family. Lemon balm is naturally found in parts of Europe, Asia and Africa. It is also grown commercially and in gardens around the world. Also known as Melissa officinalis, lemon balm has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It is also used as an ingredient in cosmetics, cleaning supplies, food and liquor. Citronella lemon balm is the most fragrant variety of lemon balm.
Things You'll Need
- Paper towel
- Sachet
- Bowl
- Hot water
- Teacup
- Glycerin soap
- Ceramic bowl
- Lemon balm essential oil
- Microwave
- Soap molds
Instructions
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Dry lemon balm leaves and make an aromatic potpourri. Wash the leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel. Set them aside to dry. The leaves should be dry in a matter of days. Place the dried leaves in a sachet or a bowl for a fragrant scent.
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Brew lemon balm for medicinal tea. Heat water in a teapot until ready to serve. Place five to 10 lemon balm leaves in a teacup. Pour the hot water over the leaves in the teacup and allow the herbal tea to steep for two to three minutes. Lemon balm is used for digestion, headaches and fevers.
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Add chopped lemon balm as an ingredient to salads, vegetable medleys, marinades and stuffing. Lemon balm has a delicate lemony taste.
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Make lemon balm soap. Cut glycerin soap into half-inch cubes and melt in the microwave in a ceramic bowl. Microwave the soap at medium heat at 30-second intervals. When the soap is completely melted, add three to five drops of lemon balm essential oil. You can also add chopped lemon balm to the melted soap. Pour the mixture into molds to set.
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References
- Photo Credit lemon balm image by hazel proudlove from Fotolia.com
