Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has traditionally been used in herbal medicine to support symptoms associated with menopause, such as sleep disturbances, mood swings, and anxiety. Its use stems primarily from its historical application as a calming herb, believed to relieve nervousness and promote better sleep. Various traditional systems, including European and Middle Eastern herbal practices, have recommended lemon balm for women experiencing menopause-related discomforts.

Scientific evidence for lemon balm’s specific benefits in menopause is limited. Most research focuses on its general anxiolytic, sedative, and mild antidepressant effects, rather than direct studies on menopausal populations. Some small, preliminary studies suggest that lemon balm extracts may improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety or irritability, which are common menopausal symptoms. However, robust clinical trials targeting menopausal women are lacking. Lemon balm is sometimes included in multi-herb preparations for menopause, making it difficult to isolate its effects.

In summary, the use of lemon balm for menopause is primarily justified by tradition rather than strong scientific evidence. While its calming properties may indirectly support some menopausal symptoms, the overall quality and quantity of direct evidence are low.

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