Melissa

MELISSA (Melissa officinalis L., var. citrata), lemon balm, bee herb, perennial herbaceous plant of the mint family (Labiatae), up to 50 cm in height; grows wild in Southern Europe, in Crimea and in the Caucasus. Leaves are light green, oval, with large teeth; when rubbed between fingers they emit a pleasant smell of lemon peel. M. is cultivated in gardens and vegetable gardens for medical purposes, for obtaining essential oil and mainly as a honey plant. M. contains bitter and tannin substances, resin, mucus and about 0.1% essential oil, consisting of citral (C₁₀H₁₆O) and citronellal (C₁₀H₁₈O). The leaves of M. are used as a mild stimulant, carminative and diaphoretic. The essential oil of M. is included in the composition of aromatic alcohol, in cosmetic preparations and has great importance in perfumery. Previously, Aq. Melissae and Aq. M. composita, s. Aq. carmolitana were used. M., very beloved by bees, is rubbed on hives to attract bee swarms, and therefore the herb is also called "swarm attractor". The plant has export importance.