Kidney School™—a program of Medical Education Institute, Inc.

Module 15—Alternative Treatments

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a sweet-smelling herb with a mild lemon flavor.

Uses:

  • A strong anti-viral, lemon balm is used on the skin for Herpes viruses.
  • Studies have shown that lemon balm is better than a placebo at inducing calm and enhancing memory. Lemon balm has been shown to be better than a placebo at improving brain function and reducing agitation in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
  • Lemon balm has very high levels of antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage. In fact, six different flavinoids (compounds with antioxidant effects) have been found in lemon balm.

Forms: Capsule; liquid extract; lemon balm also grows easily in any garden and makes a pleasant, sweet tea.

CAUTION! Please check with your doctor before trying any alternative therapies; not all therapies are safe and/or recommended for people with kidney disease. The information presented here is for informational purposes only.
Page 34 of 60 | Further reading