Lemon balm extracts may reduce anxiety and benign palpitations

Research suggests that extracts of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) may help reduce anxiety and the frequency of benign heart palpitations. While the plant has a long history in traditional medicine for treating stress and sleep issues, recent clinical studies have explored its potential for more specific physiological benefits.

However, experts warn against viral social media claims suggesting that placing a single fresh leaf under the tongue can stop palpitations within minutes. Clinical evidence supports the use of standardized extracts administered orally over a period of time, rather than the immediate effect promised by online trends.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recognizes lemon balm as a traditional herbal medicinal product for alleviating mild symptoms of stress and aiding sleep, though it notes this recognition is largely based on long-standing traditional use rather than definitive clinical proof for all claimed effects. A 2021 systematic analysis indicated promising results regarding anxiety improvement compared to placebos, but researchers noted significant variation between different studies.