I am a mint lover. I actually am a lover of all plants that are in the Mint Family This family includes some of the most popular and aromatic herbs, such as peppermint, spearmint, and basil, as well as lesser-known varieties like lemon balm and oregano. With its vast diversity, the Mint Family is found in almost every continent
When you think about it — there are many culinary herbs in this family It includes the most widely used culinary herbs, such as, Origanum (Oregano), Hyssopus (Hyssop), Lavandula (Lavender), Mentha (Mint) and Thymus (Thyme).
If you think you are looking at Mint or Spearmint— rub the leaves and smell your fingers. If it smells like Lemon - you are looking at Lemon Balm ( Melissa officinalis) Have a cup of Lemon Balm tea tonight . It it used to calm yourself and even help you sleep, It even has a cardiovascular benefit. This sweet-lemon scented herb is actively scrubbing cholesterol from your bloodstream.
A 2024 analysis of clinical trials revealed that people taking lemon balm experienced significant drops in triglycerides, total cholesterol, and dangerous LDL cholesterol.
Don’t over use Lemon Balm if you have thyroid disease or take a thyroid medication or supplement. I use Lemon Balm to slow down a hyperactive thyroid ( Hyperthyroidism) For some reason some think Lily of Valley is a Mint Family Herb Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is not in the mint family (Lamiaceae).
Until tomorrow…