Several years ago I decided I wanted to grow lemon balm. Great idea, right? Well, now I am constantly looking for new uses for lemon balm because the stuff is growing like a weed and taking over the back of my house. Well, from lemon balm syrup to natural mosquito repellent, here are a few things to do with lemon balm this month.
Lemon Balm for a Better Sleep
Lemon Balm Syrup Recipe:
To make a sleepy time syrup, simmer 1 cup of lemon balm leaves in just enough water to cover them. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until you have reduced the liquid by about half. Let cool and strain. Add honey (about 1/4 cup) and stir until dissolved.
How to use this DIY lemon balm syrup: A tablespoon or so at night of this lemon balm syrup may be helpful for better sleep. DO NOT give to babies and toddlers or anyone else that shouldn’t have honey. Store this in the refrigerator or a week or two before tossing.
Does lemon balm plant repel mosquitoes? YES!
Mosquitoes hate the smell of lemon balm so take advantage of this! Grow lemon balm right by the back door and every time you go out, rub a few crushed leaves onto your skin. Just grab a handful, rub in your hands for a second, and then rub all over your arms and legs to protect from bugs.
Don’t Let Fresh Lemon Balm Go To Waste!
There are a ton of creative uses for lemon balm that I really want to try in the coming months. I am getting tired of just pulling it all out and tossing it in the compost bin! Do you have other ways to use lemon balm? If you can’t think of ways to use it NOW, invest in a dehydrator and dry lemon balm for use throughout the year. It goes great in lemon balm tea, even when dried.