Melissa, also called lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), is a plant from the Lamiaceae family, the same as mint. Originally from the Mediterranean region and southern Europe, it has been cultivated for centuries and appreciated for its medicinal properties and its use in cooking. In fact, in Brazil, it is listed in the Herbal Medicines Form of the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia (2nd edition) of the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa).

Next, check out 8 health benefits of lemon balm tea.

Melissa is known for being a calming plant, as it contains citral and linalool. These substances act directly on the central nervous system, modulating neurotransmitters such as GABA, responsible for reducing excessive brain activity, promoting a state of calm and mental relaxation.

According to Annex I of RDC Anvisa No. 10, of March 9, 2010, of the resolution that provides for the notification of plant drugs with the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) and provides other measures, its infusion can be used in mild cases of anxiety and insomnia, as a mild tranquilizer.

2. Relieves digestive problems

Melissa is traditionally used to improve digestion and combat problems such as gas, bloating and colic. Its antispasmodic properties help relax the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating digestion and relieving stomach discomfort. In fact, Annex I of RDC Anvisa No. 10, of March 9, 2010, highlights that the infusion of the plant can be used in cases of abdominal cramps

3. Strengthens the immune system

Melissa tea has antioxidants which help protect the body’s cells against damage caused by free radicals. These compounds stimulate immunity, making the body more resistant to infections and seasonal diseases. Incorporating tea into your routine is a natural way to take care of your health in the long term.

4. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic action

The anti-inflammatory properties of lemon balm help reduce pain and inflammation in the body, being useful in cases of headaches, menstrual cramps and muscle discomfort. According to the article “Medicinal Benefits of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) for Human Health“, published in the World Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the essential oil present in this plant has been shown to have anti-inflammatory activities in the treatment of several diseases associated with inflammation and pain.

5. Helps control cholesterol

Melissa tea helps reduce cholesterolespecially LDL (“bad” cholesterol). This is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect blood vessels and prevent the accumulation of fat on arterial walls.

In Brazil, around 4 in 10 adults have altered cholesterol levels, according to a warning from the Brazilian Society of Cardiology. The high level of LDL significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, diseases that together killed 20,184 Brazilians across the country in the first half of 2025 alone, according to data from DataSUS, from the Ministry of Health.

6. Take care of skin health

In addition to consuming the tea, you can apply it topically to improve health of the skin. Its soothing properties help reduce irritation, redness and acne. It can also be used in compresses to soothe inflamed areas and promote cell regeneration.

7. Relieves headaches

Melissa can help relieve headaches, especially those associated with stress, anxiety and muscle tension. This happens because the plant has calming and relaxing properties, which help to reduce muscle contraction and promote a feeling of well-being.

8. Improves sleep quality

Melissa is also widely associated with improving sleep, especially in cases of mild insomnia and difficulty relaxing at night. Your natural compoundssuch as citral and rosmarinic acid, act gently on the nervous system, helping to reduce mental agitation and promoting relaxation before bed. Therefore, tea is often used as a natural option to create a calmer nighttime routine, especially when combined with other calming plants, such as chamomile.