Lemon balm, scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, has been used for centuries for its various medicinal and aromatic properties. Its extract is a powerhouse of natural goodness, which has found its way into numerous amazing products. In this article, we will explore five incredible things made from Lemon Balm Extract.
1. Natural Insect Repellents
Why it works
Lemon Balm Extract has proven to be an effective natural insect repellent. Insects, in general, dislike the pleasant yet strong scent of lemon balm. The compounds present in the extract act as a deterrent, keeping bugs at bay without the use of harsh chemicals. This makes it a great alternative for those who are sensitive to synthetic repellents or for those who prefer natural solutions.
How to make a simple lemon balm insect repellent
Harvest fresh lemon balm leaves. Make sure they are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
Crush the leaves gently to release their oils. You can use a mortar and pestle for this.
Place the crushed leaves in a glass jar and cover them with a carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. The ratio can be about 1 part lemon balm leaves to 2 parts carrier oil.
Let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for about two weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days.
After two weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine - mesh sieve. The resulting liquid is your lemon balm insect repellent.
Benefits over commercial repellents
Commercial insect repellents often contain chemicals like DEET, which can have potential side effects such as skin irritation. Lemon balm - based repellents are natural and generally safe for all skin types. They also have a pleasant, fresh smell compared to the often - strong and chemical - like odors of commercial products.
2. Bath Products
Bath Bombs
Lemon Balm Extract is a wonderful addition to bath bombs. When added to the mixture of baking soda, citric acid, and other ingredients, it provides a refreshing and relaxing experience. The aroma of lemon balm fills the bathroom, creating a spa - like atmosphere.
The extract's natural properties can also help soothe irritated skin. If you have a sunburn or mild skin irritation, a bath bomb with lemon balm extract can provide some relief.
It can enhance the overall mood during a bath. The pleasant scent has a calming effect, which is perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Bath Salts
Bath salts combined with lemon balm extract offer a luxurious bathing experience. The salts, such as Epsom salt, help relax muscles, while the lemon balm extract adds its aromatic and skin - friendly benefits.
The combination can improve blood circulation. As you soak in the bath with lemon balm - infused bath salts, your body can experience better blood flow, which is beneficial for overall health.
It can also help with stress relief. The scent of lemon balm in the bath salts helps to relax the mind, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
3. Natural Lip Balms
Moisturizing and Protecting Lips
Lemon balm extract is a great ingredient for natural lip balms. It helps to keep lips moisturized by preventing water loss from the skin on the lips. The natural oils in the extract form a protective barrier, shielding the lips from environmental factors such as wind and cold.
It has antibacterial properties. This means that it can help prevent infections on the lips, especially if there are any small cuts or cracks.
The pleasant taste and smell of lemon balm make the lip balm more enjoyable to use compared to some commercial products with artificial flavors.
How to make a simple lemon balm lip balm
Melt beeswax pellets in a double boiler. Use a small amount, such as half a teaspoon, depending on the desired consistency.
Add a teaspoon of coconut oil and a few drops of lemon balm extract to the melted beeswax.
Stir the mixture well until it is fully combined.
Pour the mixture into a small lip balm container and let it cool and harden.
4. Herbal Tinctures for Better Sleep
The Sedative Properties
Lemon balm extract has sedative properties, which make it an excellent ingredient for herbal tinctures aimed at promoting better sleep. It helps to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and restlessness that can often interfere with a good night's sleep.
It can also help with insomnia. For those who struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, a lemon balm tincture taken before bed can be beneficial.
The extract works in harmony with the body's natural sleep - wake cycle, helping to regulate it and promote more restful sleep.
How to make a lemon balm tincture for sleep
Fill a glass jar about half - full with dried lemon balm leaves.
Pour high - proof alcohol, such as vodka, over the leaves until the jar is full. The alcohol helps to extract the active compounds from the leaves.
Seal the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark place for about four to six weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days.
After the allotted time, strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a fine - mesh sieve. Store the tincture in a dark - colored dropper bottle.
5. Homemade Candles
Adding a Lovely Aroma
When lemon balm extract is added to homemade candles, it imparts a lovely, fresh aroma. The scent fills the room when the candle is lit, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.
It can also have a calming effect on the environment. The gentle smell of lemon balm can help to reduce stress and create a more relaxing space, whether it's in the living room, bedroom, or bathroom.
Making candles with lemon balm extract is a creative and fun DIY project. You can customize the color and shape of the candle, along with the strength of the lemon balm scent, depending on your preferences.
How to make a lemon balm scented candle
Melt wax, such as soy wax or beeswax, in a double boiler.
Add a few drops of lemon balm extract and a small amount of essential oil for added scent, if desired.
Insert a wick into a candle mold and pour the melted wax into the mold.
Let the candle cool and harden completely before removing it from the mold.
Conclusion
Lemon balm extract is truly a versatile and amazing natural ingredient. From insect repellents to bath products, lip balms, herbal tinctures for sleep, and candles, it offers a wide range of benefits. Incorporating products made with lemon balm extract into your daily life can not only provide practical solutions but also enhance your overall well - being with its natural and pleasant properties.
FAQ:
Q1: How does lemon balm extract work as an insect repellent?
The pleasant scent of lemon balm extract is what makes it effective as an insect repellent. Insects tend to dislike this particular scent, which helps keep them away.
Q2: What makes lemon balm extract suitable for bath products?
Lemon balm extract offers a refreshing and relaxing experience. Its properties make it a great addition to bath bombs and salts, enhancing the overall bathing experience.
Q3: How does lemon balm extract protect and moisturize lips in lip balms?
Lemon balm extract contains certain elements that can form a protective layer on the lips. At the same time, it has moisturizing properties that help keep the lips hydrated.
Q4: Why can lemon balm extract promote better sleep when made into herbal tinctures?
It has sedative properties. When made into herbal tinctures, these properties can help relax the body and mind, thus promoting better sleep.
Q5: How does lemon balm extract in homemade candles create a calming effect?
When added to homemade candles, lemon balm extract gives off a lovely aroma. This aroma can potentially have a calming effect on the environment.
Q6: Are there any side effects of using products made with lemon balm extract?
In general, lemon balm extract is considered safe for most people when used in normal amounts. However, some individuals may be allergic. It is always advisable to do a patch test before using any new product containing it.
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