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Spring glides in with all the simple grace and subtle humor of a country two-step: one step forward and two steps back. Enticed by bouts of sunshine, we prepare our garden or plan a hike, only to wake the next day to cold, driving rain. My life can feel like that too when the plans I make surge, then stall, and my moods ride along with them. Herbalist Sally King offers me lemon balm, a sweet-tasting herb to lift my spirits above bouts of everyday blues: "When I think of lemon balm, I think of joy," she says, handing me a steaming cup of the tea. Along with its ability to support our journey through life's ups and downs, this fragrant plant also soothes the digestive system and strengthens the heart and the immune system. With its antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic qualities, lemon balm provides multiple ways to enhance our health.

Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis (derived from the Greek word for bee), is of the family Labiatae (mint), and sometimes is simply called Balm. This perennial is easy to grow, thrives in full sun or partial shade and reseeds vigorously. Lemon balm grows in clumps and can be trained as a thick, fragrant hedge. Its tiny flowers range from white to yellowish and blossom in bunches among oval, toothed, light-green leaves. Its fresh lemon scent and distinct lemon taste make it an excellent addition to any garden. Bees love lemon balm; plant it near beehives, orchards and other pollinating plants. Harvest its leaves several times in the growing season: Cut the plant back to the ground and it will soon regenerate. Add a tablespoon of chopped leaves to your salads or brew them for a tea.

Ready to relax: Sally reminds me that though we often aren't in charge of what happens in our lives, we choose how we respond: "It's really all in what I tell myself — what lens I decide to look through in the morning." She suggests starting the day with a cup of lemon balm tea or toast spread with lemon-balm-infused honey. An effective anti-depressant and mild sedative, lemon balm's effect is calming and restorative — an excellent alternative to a breakfast of caffeine and sugar. Lemon balm nourishes the nervous system, easing stress and tension. Even a stroll through a garden graced by its fragrance lifts one's spirit. If by day's end anxiety induces a case of insomnia, pour a cup of lemon balm infusion into your bathwater. The soothing qualities of oatstraw (see "Opening to Oatstraw," issue # 3) pair superbly with lemon balm; for deep rest, make an infusion of both together and drink a cup before bedtime.

Digesting life: Lemon balm's soothing properties also aid digestive health. It's effective in easing indigestion: gas, bloating and gastrointestinal pain. Lemon balm relaxes muscle tissue, soothing intestinal cramping or that of painful menstruation. It also strengthens the heart and the immune system. Throughout the Middle Ages, lemon balm was reputed to be an elixir of life.

Antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic: Lemon balm provides natural relief for feverish colds and flu by inducing a mild perspiration. Its antiviral properties are particularly useful for clearing a herpes outbreak. Apply a cream, oil or salve containing lemon balm when that tingling twinge signals the onset of a cold sore or herpes blister. Lemon balm is also effective in clearing some bacterial infections. For cases of strep throat, herbalist Gail Faith Edwards infuses lemon balm in honey or makes a syrup and then takes a tablespoon every two hours until the infection is resolved. This plant has strong antiseptic properties; for a lemon balm bandage, place the fresh leaves directly onto insect bites and sores or apply in a poultice. As an alternative to lavender, scatter the dried leaves amongst stored linens and sweaters to deter moths.

Friend in need: When health or energy issues arise in my life, meeting them head on can feel like an impossible task. My first inclination is to escape — into a favorite activity or with a food that comforts me. Sally reminds me of the multitude of plants that are able to assist, whenever and however I am ready to begin. Results may come swiftly, smoothly or gradually, for each plant has its own unique, personal effect. Sounds like a beautiful partnership to me...

Sally King, CCH., is the former founder and publisher of SpindleWeed magazine. She is currently on sabbatical as the Director of RavenCroft Garden in Monroe, Washington. Sally has 15 years experience as an herbal educator, and is dedicated to connecting people, plants and the earth: 360-794-2938 or www.ravencroftgarden.com.

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