If you’re looking for a refreshing herbal drink that soothes your mind, boosts digestion, and tastes absolutely delightful, then lemon balm drink is a must-try! Whether you enjoy it as a hot tea, iced infusion, or even lemonade, this drink is packed with health benefits and a light citrusy-mint flavor that makes it a fantastic daily beverage.
But what exactly is lemon balm? How does it benefit your health? And most importantly, how can you make the perfect lemon balm drink at home? Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
What Is Lemon Balm?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family with bright green leaves and a light lemony scent. It has been used for centuries in herbal medicine and tea preparations to promote relaxation, aid digestion, and improve overall well-being.
It’s not just a trend; lemon balm has a long history of being used in traditional medicine, aromatherapy, and even skincare. But today, we’ll focus on its delicious drinkable benefits!
Why Is Lemon Balm Popular in Herbal Drinks?
Lemon balm is super versatile when it comes to herbal drinks. You can make a calming tea, a refreshing lemonade, or even infuse it into mocktails and kombucha. It blends well with mint, honey, lemon, chamomile, and ginger, making it a fantastic ingredient for a variety of recipes.
Plus, it’s naturally caffeine-free, meaning you can sip on it anytime of the day without worrying about jitters.
“A cup of lemon balm tea feels like a warm hug for your nervous system – calming, comforting, and full of goodness.”
Health Benefits of Lemon Balm Drink
Drinking lemon balm tea or infused water isn’t just about flavor—it’s about wellness too. Here are some of the top benefits of adding this soothing drink to your daily routine.
Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Feeling stressed out or overwhelmed? Lemon balm is known for its natural calming properties. Studies suggest that compounds in lemon balm interact with GABA receptors, which help regulate stress levels and promote a sense of relaxation.
So, if you’ve had a long day, sipping on some warm lemon balm tea can help you unwind and relax—naturally!
Improves Sleep Quality
Struggling with restless nights? Lemon balm tea has been used for centuries as a natural sleep aid. Its mild sedative effects help to ease an overactive mind and prepare your body for a deep, restful slumber.
Pair it with chamomile or lavender, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate bedtime tea.
“Drinking lemon balm tea before bed is like pressing the ‘reset’ button on your mind—calm, clear, and ready for deep sleep.”
Supports Digestion and Gut Health
Ever feel bloated or uneasy after a heavy meal? Lemon balm is a fantastic digestive aid, helping to soothe bloating, gas, and indigestion. It also supports gut-friendly bacteria, making it a great choice for overall digestive health.
If you tend to experience stomach discomfort, try drinking a cup of warm lemon balm tea after meals—your tummy will thank you!
For more ways to support digestion and well-being, you might also enjoy this Homemade Mounjaro Recipe, a nutritious drink that helps maintain energy and balance throughout the day.
Boosts Cognitive Function and Focus
Need a little brain boost? Lemon balm isn’t just for relaxation—it can actually help improve memory, focus, and cognitive performance. Studies have found that lemon balm extract can enhance concentration, making it a great drink for students, professionals, and anyone needing a little mental clarity.
Try it as an iced lemon balm drink in the afternoon instead of your usual caffeine fix!
Rich in Antioxidants and Supports Immunity
Lemon balm is loaded with antioxidants, which help to protect your cells from damage and boost your immune system. If you’re feeling under the weather, sipping on some lemon balm tea with honey and ginger can help speed up recovery and keep your body strong and healthy.
How to Make Lemon Balm Drink at Home
Now that you know the amazing benefits of lemon balm drink, let’s talk about how to make it!
Ingredients Needed for Lemon Balm Tea
To make a simple lemon balm tea, you’ll need:
- Fresh or dried lemon balm leaves (1-2 tablespoons)
- Hot water (1 cup)
- Optional: Honey, lemon, mint, or ginger for added flavor

Step-by-Step Recipe for Hot Lemon Balm Tea
- Boil Water – Heat 1 cup of water until it reaches a gentle simmer.
- Add Lemon Balm Leaves – Place the fresh or dried lemon balm leaves in a mug.
- Steep for 5-10 Minutes – Let the leaves infuse the water. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor.
- Strain and Serve – Remove the leaves and add honey or lemon if desired.
- Enjoy! – Sip and relax.
How to Make Refreshing Iced Lemon Balm Drink
Want something cool and refreshing? Try this simple iced lemon balm infusion:
- Brew a strong lemon balm tea using double the leaves.
- Let it cool, then pour it over a glass filled with ice.
- Add fresh lemon slices and a splash of honey.
- Garnish with mint leaves and enjoy!
This is perfect for hot summer days or when you need a hydrating herbal boost.
Delicious Variations & Common Problems with Lemon Balm Drink
Popular Variations of Lemon Balm Drinks
While a simple hot or iced lemon balm tea is already amazing, why not mix things up? Here are some delicious variations to keep things exciting!
Lemon Balm and Honey Tea
If you love a sweet touch in your tea, adding honey is the way to go. Not only does honey enhance the natural lemony-mint flavor of lemon balm, but it also brings its own set of benefits like soothing a sore throat, boosting immunity, and adding antibacterial properties.
How to Make It:
- Brew a cup of lemon balm tea as usual.
- Stir in a teaspoon of raw honey while it’s still warm.
- Enjoy the sweet, calming blend!
This is perfect before bedtime or when you need a comforting drink to unwind.
Lemon Balm and Mint Infusion
Want something even fresher? Combine lemon balm with mint for an extra cooling effect. This combo is great for digestion, making it a fantastic after-meal drink.
How to Make It:
- Add equal parts lemon balm and mint leaves to hot water.
- Let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain, add a splash of lemon juice, and serve hot or cold.
This drink is like a spa treatment for your stomach—refreshing and light!
Lemon Balm Lemonade for a Summer Refreshment
If you’re looking for a tasty and hydrating summer drink, lemon balm lemonade is a must-try. It’s zesty, slightly sweet, and packed with antioxidants.
How to Make It:
- Brew a strong batch of lemon balm tea and let it cool.
- In a pitcher, mix the tea with freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Fill with cold water and ice, then stir well.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint.
Refreshing, hydrating, and perfect for hot days!
“Lemon balm lemonade is like sunshine in a glass – bright, refreshing, and full of natural goodness.”

Fermented Lemon Balm Kombucha
Want to add gut-friendly probiotics to your lemon balm drink? Try fermenting it into kombucha! This gives it a tangy, fizzy twist while maintaining all the herbal benefits.
How to Make It:
- Brew a strong lemon balm tea and let it cool.
- Mix it with kombucha starter (scoby) and a little sugar.
- Let it ferment for 7-10 days.
- Strain and bottle it for a delicious, probiotic-rich drink.
This is a fantastic way to enjoy herbs and probiotics together for improved gut health.
Common Problems and Solutions When Making Lemon Balm Drinks
Even though lemon balm drinks are pretty simple to make, you might run into some small issues. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some easy fixes!
Why Does My Lemon Balm Drink Taste Bitter?
Uh-oh. Instead of a light, citrusy flavor, your tea turned out too strong and bitter? This happens when you:
- Steep the leaves for too long (over 10 minutes).
- Use too many leaves in one cup.
- Use old or stale lemon balm leaves.
How to Fix It:
- Stick to a 5-7 minute steep time for a mild, refreshing taste.
- Use 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon balm or 1 teaspoon of dried.
- Always store dried lemon balm in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
“Lemon balm tea should be light and soothing, not overpowering. Less is often more when it comes to steeping time!”
How to Store Fresh and Dried Lemon Balm Properly
If you’re using fresh lemon balm, you might wonder:
How do I keep it fresh for longer?
For Fresh Leaves:
- Wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in a sealed container in the fridge (lasts about 1 week).
- Or, freeze them in ice cube trays with water for easy use in iced drinks!
For Dried Leaves:
- Store in an airtight container, away from heat and light.
- Use within 6-12 months for the best flavor.
Can I Drink Lemon Balm Tea Every Day?
Yes, but like anything, moderation is key! Drinking 1-2 cups a day is perfectly fine and offers great health benefits.
However, if you drink too much, you might experience:
- Drowsiness (since it’s naturally calming).
- Mild stomach upset if consumed in large amounts.
Is Lemon Balm Safe for Everyone? Who Should Avoid It?
Lemon balm is generally safe for most people, but some should use caution or avoid it:
- If you’re on thyroid medication, lemon balm may interfere with thyroid function.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before drinking it regularly.
- If you’re taking sedatives or anxiety medication, lemon balm might enhance the effects.
Always check with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure!
Where to Buy, Storage Tips, and Final Thoughts on Lemon Balm Drinks
Where to Buy Lemon Balm and Best Storage Tips
If you’re excited to start making lemon balm drinks, the first step is getting your hands on high-quality lemon balm leaves. Here’s where to find them and how to store them properly.
Fresh vs. Dried Lemon Balm: Which One to Use?
Both fresh and dried lemon balm work great in drinks, but they offer slightly different flavors and benefits:
- Fresh Lemon Balm: Has a more delicate, citrusy aroma. Best for infusions, lemonade, and iced tea.
- Dried Lemon Balm: More potent and concentrated. Best for hot tea, herbal blends, and long-term storage.
Which one should you choose? If you grow your own lemon balm or have access to fresh leaves, go for it! But if you want convenience and longer shelf life, dried lemon balm is a great option.
Best Places to Buy Organic Lemon Balm
If you don’t have a lemon balm plant in your backyard, don’t worry! You can easily buy fresh or dried lemon balm from several sources:
- Local Farmer’s Markets – If you prefer fresh, this is the best place to find organic lemon balm.
- Health Food Stores – Many sell dried lemon balm in the herbal tea section.
- Online Herbal Shops – Websites like Mountain Rose Herbs, Starwest Botanicals, and Amazon have high-quality organic options.
- Garden Centers – If you want to grow your own, check plant nurseries for lemon balm seedlings.
Proper Storage to Keep Your Lemon Balm Fresh
Storing lemon balm correctly ensures it stays flavorful and potent for longer. Here’s how:
For Fresh Lemon Balm:
- Store fresh leaves in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel (lasts about 1 week).
- Freeze in an ice cube tray with water for use in cold drinks and smoothies.
For Dried Lemon Balm:
- Keep in an airtight glass jar or resealable bag.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Use within 6-12 months for the best flavor and health benefits.
“Storing lemon balm properly means you’ll always have a calming, refreshing drink ready to go whenever you need it!”

Lemon Balm Drink
Equipment
- Kettle or Saucepan
- Strainer or Cheesecloth
- Mug or Pitcher
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon balm leaves or 1 tbsp dried leaves
- 4 cups water
- 1 tbsp honey or to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 4 ice cubes optional, for iced version
Instructions
- Boil the water in a kettle or saucepan.
- Add fresh or dried lemon balm leaves to a mug or pitcher.
- Pour hot water over the leaves and let steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain out the leaves and stir in honey and lemon juice.
- For iced lemon balm drink, let the tea cool and pour over ice cubes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Lemon Balm Drink Today
So, why should you start sipping on lemon balm drinks? Simple—it’s a delicious, natural way to relax, boost your health, and stay hydrated!
Quick Recap of the Benefits
- Relieves stress and anxiety – Say goodbye to tension with every sip.
- Improves sleep quality – A perfect caffeine-free bedtime drink.
- Supports digestion – Great for bloating and gut health.
- Boosts brain function – Stay sharp and focused without caffeine.
- Loaded with antioxidants – Strengthen your immune system naturally.
And the best part? It’s super easy to make! Whether you enjoy it hot, iced, or mixed into lemonades and herbal blends, lemon balm drinks are a simple, affordable, and effective way to feel better every day.
“Nature gives us the best remedies, and lemon balm is proof that a simple herb can work wonders for the mind and body!”
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some lemon balm, brew a cup, and experience the benefits for yourself!
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