Lemon Balm extract (Melissa officinalis), use and supplementation

Melissa officinalis (from the Labiatae family) is a herb commonly called Lemon Balm with traditional uses in nervous system ailments, memory enhancement and sedation. It appears to have traditional usage in Eastern Europe area (particularly Croatia) and has a documented medicinal history extending back to the 'Materia Medica' in approximately 50–80 BC. Lemon Balm' is also sometimes referred to as either Bee Balm or Garden Balm, sometimes simply as 'Melissa'. Melissa officinalis also appears to have a medicinal presence in Brazil where it is referred to as 'erva-cidreira'.

The traditional use for the purposes of sedation, cognitive boosting and calming the body vary from oral herb intake, tea drinking, and aromatherapy. In regards to its subjective cognitive effects, it appears to be effective in inducing calmness, and calmness inducing agents help in inducing sleep.

A study showed that in persons with mild to moderate stress and anxiety coupled with sleep disturbances, supplementation of Melissa officinalis resulted in reductions in anxiety-related insomnia by 42%. Melissa officinalis can also be combined and consumed alongside Valeriana (HIB Fur Deine Schlaf) for the purpose of sedation and sleep quality. At least one multicenter study using both in a combination noted that the supplemented group after 30 days reported enhanced sleep quality (33% of respondents reported better sleep) which was greater than placebo (9% of the placebo group reported better sleep). Treatment was very well tolerated with no significant side effects. One trial has noted that this combination was effective in reducing restlessness and dyssomnia in children.

Another acute study noted that a lozenge containing Melissa officinalis was able to induce brain wave alterations similar to that of standard anxiolytic and it appears to reduce anxiety when taken over a period of time.

B!TONIC Blue Sleep is a unique mixture of two B vitamins (niacin, B3 and biotin, B7) with extracts of hops and lemon balm. The lemon balm extract exhibit calming and relaxing properties. Recent scientific studies show that lemon balm significantly extends the length of sleep and can help combat insomnia. This unique combination of sleep-promoting substances is also compatible with vegan lifestyle.