Rooted in Wisdom: When Lemon Balm Needs Caution
Image by Kathy McCabe & Copilot
Even gentle herbs like lemon balm aren’t one-size-fits-all. This is why we always ask: Who’s the herb serving, and how?
| Who Should Pause or Proceed Mindfully | Why |
| People with Thyroid Conditions | Lemon balm may subtly interfere with TSH signaling. Avoid extracts or daily medicinal doses. A cozy tea here and there is usually fine if managed. |
| Expecting or Nursing Mothers | Potential hormonal effects suggest caution—best to consult a care provider. |
| Those on Sedatives or CNS medications | May amplify drowsiness or slow breathing. |
| People with Hormone-Sensitive Conditions | Its mild estrogenic effects call for careful use. |
| Children | Use in diluted preparations with guidance. |
| Those with Mint Allergies | As a mint family plant, it may trigger reactions. |
| Pre-Surgery Patients | Discontinue at least 2 weeks prior due to sedative properties. |
Thyroid Talk: Sipping Safely
The thyroid deserves attention in any wellness plan. Lemon balm, while supportive in many ways, may dampen thyroid hormone activity, especially in cases of hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
But this doesn’t mean it’s off-limits:
An occasional, mild cup of lemon balm tea is generally considered safe for most people with thyroid conditions, especially when well-managed or medication-free.
At Hilltop Herbals, we suggest using leaf infusions rather than tinctures if you’re navigating thyroid concerns. Always listen to your body, and when in doubt, bring your herbal questions to a trusted practitioner.
As one who has hypothyroidism myself, I confess my favorite use of lemon balm is aroma therapy. Nothing helps boost my spirits like the crisp lemony scent of lemon balm, and it’s one I often prepare a hydrosol from to scent my home. Lemon balm is a loving helper—gentle, fragrant, and full of heart. She teaches us that healing is a slow unfurl, best approached with curiosity and care. Whether nestled into a twilight tea or stirred into a salve, lemon balm invites balance.
Topical Benefits of Lemon Balm
As a reminder, lemon balm is also beneficial via other methods! Lemon balm contains rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and essential oils that offer powerful skin-soothing properties. Here’s how it works when applied to the skin:
- Antiviral Action
Especially effective against HSV-1, lemon balm is a go-to for cold sore salves. It helps reduce healing time and discomfort. - Anti-inflammatory & Antibacterial
Great for calming acne, eczema, and dermatitis, lemon balm reduces redness, swelling, and bacterial activity. - Skin Rejuvenation
Its antioxidant properties help fight free radicals, making it a gentle ally in anti-aging skincare. - Astringent Qualities
Helps tighten pores and reduce excess oil, making it ideal for toners and facial mists. - Minor Wound Healing
Traditionally used for cuts, scrapes, and insect bites, lemon balm promotes healing and reduces irritation.
Aromatherapy Benefits of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm’s essential oil—though rare and expensive—is deeply therapeutic. Even its hydrosol or infused oils can offer aromatic benefits:
- Calms the Nervous System
The citrus-mint aroma is known to reduce anxiety, stress, and nervous tension. It’s often used in diffusers or calming sprays. - Supports Sleep & Mood
Inhaling lemon balm can help ease insomnia and uplift the spirit—perfect for bedtime rituals or emotional balance blends. - Heart-Soothing Effects
Aromatherapists sometimes use lemon balm to ease palpitations and promote emotional grounding. - Digestive Comfort via Scent
The aroma may help settle nausea or nervous stomachs, especially when blended with peppermint or ginger.
So consider all the other benefits of lemon balm, even when you shouldn’t ingest it.
Kathy McCabe
Kathy is an herbalist/naturopathy practitioner who is constantly researching to expand her knowledge. She came to herbalism after her migraine medicine was suddenly removed from the market and she had to find something new. After discovering the magic of herbs she’s never looked back. She is accredited by the International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM) and is an Associate Member of the American Herbalist Guild.