External Applications in Anthroposophic Nursing

Melissa Oil

Synonyms
  • Balm, Lemon balm
  • Melissa officinalis
Composition
Carvi aetheroleum, Foeniculi amari fructus aetheroleum, Melissa officinalis ex herba 5%, Origanum majorana ex herba 5%
Manufacturer(s)
WALA
Warning: not to be confused with “Melissa ex herba W5% Oleum” by WALA!

Guiding principle

Lemon balm is a labiate. It unfolds its power in the leaf area with its lemon-like, volatile scent. The branched shrub, up to 90 cm high, carries densely packed light green leaves in rhythmic sequence on the square stem. The vegetative power of these leaves is expressed in exaggerated spreading between the leaf veins. This is a good way of distinguishing them from plants that look similar, such as peppermint.
In folk medicine, lemon balm is known for its nerve-soothing and antispasmodic effect and for strengthening circulation.
Lemon balm together with the other oil ingredients (caraway, fennel, marjoram) has a strengthening and stimulating effect on the gastrointestinal tract. In this way, the digestive forces are supported and form a counterweight to a head that is “too awake”.

Indications and application

Abdominal cramps

Dying process

Restlessness in cases of dementia