Introducing the Versatility of Lemon Balm: A Herb with Multiple Benefits + A Refreshing Recipe
Discover the incredible properties of lemon balm, a herb that offers a wide range of benefits for your well-being. Let's explore its remarkable qualities and make a refreshing Lemon Balm Lemonade together!
1. Nervine Sedative: Lemon balm works wonders in soothing and calming the nervous system without causing drowsiness. It's like taking the "edge" off and promoting a sense of calm throughout the day. It's also known to support the restoration and strengthening of depleted and burned out nerves.
2. Carminative: If you're experiencing spasm, cramping, or excessive gas, lemon balm can be your ally. It helps relax spasms, ease cramps, improve circulation, and dispel unwanted gas and wind.
3. Anti-Viral: Lemon balm possesses anti-viral properties, making it a valuable addition to your herbal arsenal for immune support.
4. Nootropic: It aids in grounding a scattered mind and bringing about a state of calm centeredness. Drink before a yoga session!
5. Energetically, lemon balm has a cooling effect on the body, making it particularly useful for alleviating excessive heat and irritation in the tissues. It's a perfect herb to enjoy as an ice tea or lemonade on those hot summer days!
Here's a simple and refreshing lemon balm lemonade recipe sweetened with maple syrup:
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
4 cups water
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Lemon slices and fresh lemon balm sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the fresh lemon balm leaves. Let it steep for about 20 minutes, covered.
Add the fresh lemon juice and maple syrup to a flip top lid bottle, seal, and shake to combine.
Strain the completely cooled lemon balm-infused water into the bottle next, composting the leaves.
Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired.
Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Serve the lemon balm lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices and fresh lemon balm or mint sprigs, if desired.
Enjoy your refreshing and naturally sweetened lemon balm lemonade!
Note: You can also add some sparkling water for a fizzy twist or muddle some fresh berries for added flavor. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
