Lemon balm belongs to the mint family and shares its enthusiasm for spreading. The leaves smell like fresh lemon with a hint of mint, and the flavor is mild and pleasant enough to enjoy on its own as a simple tea. It attracts bees and is a joy to have near a garden path. A handful of fresh leaves steeped in hot water makes one of the most approachable herbal teas going.
The full guide
Lemon balm wilts fast. If you cannot use it within a few hours, trim the stems and stand in a jar of water in a cool spot out of direct sun. It holds for 1-2 days. Refrigeration helps briefly but dulls the scent.
Sun
partial to full sun
Water
moderate - consistent moisture preferred, tolerates some dryness
Lifecycle
perennial
Days to maturity
70-90 days from seed
Container suitable
Yes - grows well in pots
Cut stems back by up to one-half before flowering for the most fragrant leaves. Harvest in the morning. Lemon balm tends to lose aroma quickly after picking, so use it fresh when you can.
What to harvest
- leaves
- stems
Best season
- spring
- summer
Drying
Lemon balm is trickier to dry than woodier herbs - the oils fade quickly. Dry at the lowest possible temperature (ideally under 90°F) on a screen or in a food dehydrator. Leaves should be papery and dry in 1-2 days in a dehydrator, or 5-7 days air-dried. The scent will be milder than fresh.
Storage
Store dried lemon balm in a sealed jar away from light. Use within 6 months for best flavor, as the citrus oils are volatile.
Lemon balm is a natural in teas and tinctures. See the herbal-tea-and-infusions guide and the tincture guide. It also works beautifully in shower steamers - see that guide too.
- How to Dry Fresh Herbs
A straightforward method for preserving your herb harvest so nothing goes to waste.
For Lemon Balm: Lemon balm loses aroma quickly. Dry at the lowest possible temperature and use within 6 months.
beginner1-2 weeks (mostly hands-off) - Making an Herbal Tincture
A folk method for making a shelf-stable liquid herbal extract using alcohol.
For Lemon Balm: Lemon balm tincture is typically made with fresh herb for the most vibrant result. Fill the jar fresh and cover with 80-proof vodka.
intermediate4-6 weeks (mostly hands-off) - Herbal Tea and Infusions
How to make a simple, satisfying cup from fresh or dried herbs - and when to steep longer.
For Lemon Balm: Lemon balm tea is lovely fresh or dried. Fresh leaf gives a brighter, more delicate cup; dried is more concentrated and practical year-round.
beginner10-15 minutes - Herbal Shower Steamers
How to make simple baking-soda shower bombs that fill your shower with herb and essential oil fragrance.
For Lemon Balm: Lemon balm essential oil or dried flowers add a citrus-fresh note to shower steamers. Pairs well with lavender.
beginner30 minutes active + 24-48 hours drying
Flavor profile
Mild, fresh lemon with a soft minty undertone
Uses
- herbal tea blends
- tinctures
- lemonade
- desserts
- fruit salads
- infused honey
- cocktail garnish
Pairs well with
- chamomile
- lavender
- peppermint
- honey
- lemon
- ginger
Traditional uses
- traditionally used to support a sense of calm and ease
- long valued in European folk traditions for its gentle, uplifting aromatic qualities
- often prepared as a bedtime tea in folk traditions across Europe
Always worth knowing before you cook with or use any herb regularly.
- If you are pregnant or nursing, talk with your provider before using herbs medicinally.