Description
Crete Balm or Lime Balm is a different strain than Lemon Balm with a distinct Lime flavor whose sweet fragrance is seemingly irresistible to children, gardeners and bees. Easy to grow and drought tolerant, this mint relative is best grown in containers if spreading is not wanted. Commonly grown herbal household remedy with a long tradition as a tonic that raises the spirits and lifts the heart. is an effective nervine, nourishing and calming to the nervous system, thus helping conditions of anxiety, sleeplessness and even infections of the nervous system, like shingles, due to its antiviral compounds. Lime Balm works directly with the thyroid, bringing balance to hyperthyroidism.
The Greeks listed it in their Materia Medica as a healing agent against scorpion stings, insect and dog bites. The Greeks used an infusion of Lemon Balm and wine on insect bites or to cuts or scrapes to speed healing and treat and prevent infection. Pliny and several other ancient physicians believed strongly in its healing powers for wounds and inflammation prevention. Shakespeare mentioned it in The Merry Wives of Windsor as beneficial in making the house smell more festive and inviting to one’s guests. In the Middle Ages it was used to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, and ease pain and discomfort associated with digestion. It is often combined with other calming, soothing herbs, such as Valerian, chamomile, and hops, to enhance the overall relaxing effect.
Herbaceous perennial to 2 feet, native to the Mediterranean and hardy to 20 degrees F. Light-green lime-flavored foliage is softly fuzzy, with outsize flowers of light lavender. Good for tea or nibbling fresh. A rare and unusual subspecies of lemon balm. Prefers full sun or shade; normal garden soil and moderate water. Plant 1.5 feet apart.
