Lemon Balm Resin Extract

Lemon Balm Resin Extract is a bright, potent, dual-action resin prized for its lemony character. The concentrated form carries an exceptionally high level of rosmarinic acid, the constituent this plant is best known for, in a dense extract that works for daytime or evening enjoyment and dissolves straight into a cup. Offered in 1g, 3g and 5g.

At a glance

• Concentrated resin of Melissa officinalis with an exceptionally high level of rosmarinic acid
• Dual-action, for daytime or evening, dissolves straight into a cup
• Concentrates rosmarinic acid, citral, citronellal, geraniol and luteolin
• Serving: a rice-grain portion in warm water, tea or under the tongue, onset within half an hour
• Bright, calm, gently lifted feel without sedation
• Offered in 1g, 3g and 5g

The herb. Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis, is a bushy perennial of the mint family, Lamiaceae, native to southern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean. Its name comes from the Greek for honeybee, because beekeepers rubbed the leaves on hives to keep their colonies close. Dioscorides wrote about it in the first century, medieval monks distilled it into Carmelite water, and it has been a cheerful garden herb in Europe ever since.

Active content. Lemon Balm resin is sold as a whole-plant concentrate rather than a standardized percentage, which is why no alkaloid figure appears on the label. That pairing is why users describe it as bright and settled at once.

• Rosmarinic acid: the polyphenol that defines lemon balm, giving the calm, even side of the plant
• Volatile oils citral, citronellal and geraniol: carry the lemon scent and give the lift
• Flavonoids such as luteolin

Dosage, first time. Dissolve a rice-grain portion in warm water or tea, or let it soften under the tongue. Onset is gentle, usually within half an hour. Try a small portion by day first, then a slightly larger one in the evening on another day.

Regular use. People who know their response use a small portion in the afternoon and another in the evening, keeping each fixed. It is mild enough for daily use and pairs well with chamomile or lavender at night.

What to expect. Users describe a clear, calm, gently lifted feel that keeps the mind present without any sedation, suited to a long workday or a quiet evening. It is not a stimulant and not a heavy evening herb. For the dried leaf, see our Lemon Balm Leaf.

Side effects. Lemon balm is well tolerated, documented effects are mild drowsiness at larger amounts, occasional digestive upset and, rarely, headache. Reduce the portion, and stop if discomfort continues.

Interactions and cautions. Consult a professional before use if you take thyroid medication, since lemon balm is documented to interact with it, or sedative medications. Consult a professional if pregnant, nursing or taking any medication.

Ingredients and storage. Lemon balm extract resin (Melissa officinalis, leaf), nothing added. Store sealed in a cool, dark place, the citrus volatiles fade with air and heat, so keep the lid tight.

Common questions

• Is Lemon Balm Resin Extract for daytime or evening? Both, a smaller portion by day reads bright and focused, a larger one in the evening reads calm.
• Does lemon balm resin taste like lemon? It is lemony and slightly green, and it takes honey well.
• How is lemon balm resin different from lemon balm tea? The resin concentrates the rosmarinic acid and volatiles, so a rice-grain portion replaces a cup of brewed leaf.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Lemon balm is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.