It’s name, Melissa officinalis, is derived from the Greek word Melissa, meaning honeybee, and it was planted and used by the beekeepers of the Temple of Artemis to help keep the sacred honeybees content. In folklore, Lemon Balm was used to ward off evil, and to promote good health, love, and good cheer. Early herbalists, such as Avicenna, coined the term “it makes the heart merry” which it continues to do throughout history. To this day, it is used for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Lemon Balm’s presence is quiet and strong. Running through the soil like her minty cousins, she spreads just under the surface with steady, clear intention. In this way, she reminds us good cheer and sunny confidence will proliferate even when we’re not aware of their presence on the surface of our lives. Lemon Balm magic is the magic of quiet, steady trust. In this way, Lemon Balm asks us to seek joy and peace in the mundane tasks of life as a way of self-nurturing. Have you identified an aspect of your life that feels unbearable, burdensome, like a whole lotta work? Lemon Balm can help you identify the trouble and find ways to adapt and thrive amidst it, or maybe in spite of it.
The balm has been used in pursuit of romance and in baths to attract love. Charms can be made and worn to bring a lover into one’s life. Balm is a powerful love, success and healing herb. Lemon Balm sachets placed under your pillow or near the bed are reputed to provide a refreshing, relaxing sleep.
In short: Magick: HappIness, Love, Healing, Confidence, Adapting, Warding, Friendship, Success
Element: Water
Planet: Venus/ Moon
Gender: Feminine
Deities: Venus, Selene, DIana, Artemis & other Moon Goddesses
Comes in a little baggie weighing around 14g (1/2oz)