Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) for Nervousness: Scientific Synopsis

Lemon balm has a longstanding traditional use for calming nerves and alleviating symptoms of nervousness and mild anxiety. In recent years, scientific research has begun to substantiate these traditional uses with clinical and preclinical studies.

Several randomized, placebo-controlled trials have investigated lemon balm's effects on mood and anxiety. For example, a 2004 study published in Phytotherapy Research found that a standardized extract of lemon balm improved mood and increased calmness in healthy volunteers. Another 2011 study in Nutritional Neuroscience reported that lemon balm, taken as a supplement or in food, reduced laboratory-induced stress and improved cognitive performance in young adults.

The proposed mechanisms involve modulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity in the brain, which is associated with calming effects. Lemon balm contains rosmarinic acid and other compounds that may inhibit GABA transaminase, leading to increased GABA levels.

Overall, while more large-scale and long-term studies are needed, the current body of evidence, including both human and laboratory studies, supports the use of lemon balm for mild nervousness with a moderate level of scientific validation.