Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm)

Melissa is one of the most known savory and medicinal herbs, which has been used by people for many centuries. About two thousand years ago, the Ancient Romans were first to discover the properties of this herb. It was found on the territories from Eastern Mediterranean and Balkans to south-eastern Siberia. Today, Melissa is cultivated throughout Europe, Middle Asia and Northern America. In natural environment, Melissa can be easily found due to its smell. The whole plant and especially its leaves give off a smell of lemon, that is why this herb received the second name: Lemon balm. Read the rest of this entry »