lemon balm

noun

: a bushy perennial European mint (Melissa officinalis) often cultivated for its lemon-scented leaves
also : its leaves

Examples of lemon balm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Viar recommends avocado, nuts, and seeds; eating protein such as eggs, chicken, tofu, or fish at every meal; including slow-absorption carbohydrates such as potato, sweet potato, rice, and oatmeal; and drinking calming infusions such as chamomile or lemon balm. Mónica Heras, Vogue, 30 Dec. 2025 This collection features dill, parsley, chives, lemon balm, hyssop, fennel, chamomile, and nasturtium. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Dec. 2025 Pair them with a calming herbal tea, like chamomile or lemon balm, for the ultimate wind-down routine. Lauren Manaker, SELF, 26 Nov. 2025 Lemon Balm Tea Melissa officinalis, also called lemon balm, is a member of the mint family. Zia Sherrell, Health, 20 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lemon balm

Word History

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lemon balm was in 1864

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Cite this Entry

“Lemon balm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lemon%20balm. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.

Medical Definition

lemon balm

noun
: a bushy perennial Old World mint of the genus Melissa (M. officinalis) often cultivated for its fragrant lemon-flavored leaves and tops that have been used to make a diaphoretic tea

More from Merriam-Webster on lemon balm

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