Evidence supporting the use of: Lemon balm
For the health condition: Grief and Sadness
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has a long history of traditional use for supporting mood, easing nervous tension, and promoting relaxation. Historically, lemon balm was recommended by herbalists and physicians such as Paracelsus in the 16th century for "lifting the spirits" and addressing melancholy—terms often associated with what we now describe as grief and sadness. In the Middle Ages, it was commonly used in herbal preparations intended to comfort the heart and mind. While there is some modern research suggesting that lemon balm may have anxiolytic and mild antidepressant effects—primarily through its modulation of GABA receptors and cholinergic activity—these studies are small and focus on symptoms such as anxiety, mild depression, and stress rather than the specific emotional states of grief or sadness. Thus, while there is some preliminary scientific interest, the use of lemon balm for grief and sadness is primarily rooted in traditional herbal practice, with limited direct scientific validation. Most evidence for its effects on mood comes from its use in traditional European herbalism and anecdotal reports rather than rigorous clinical trials.
Other ingredients used for Grief and Sadness
ashwagandhalavender
passionflower
pear
rhodiola
valerian root
vitamin D
peony
St. John's Wort
Ambergris
Albizia
