Lemon Balm: What Is It?

Lemon balm is an herb belonging to the mint family. It has a mild lemon scent and is widely used for its calming and healing properties. “It is known for its soothing properties and versatility, being used in teas, skincare products, and as an essential oil,” says Dr. Karuna Malhotra, a cosmetic doctor and skincare expert.

Benefits for the Skin

"It can help soothe skin irritation, redness, and minor wounds. Lemon balm is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, as it calms irritation while promoting faster healing," explains the expert. This herb is commonly found in creams, balms, and homemade skincare treatments.

Lemon Balm as a Remedy for Mosquito Bites

Lemon balm can serve as a home remedy for mosquito bites. A 2023 study published in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights found that lemon balm extracts and essential oils have antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antiviral properties.

This plant contains active compounds such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, which provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Dr. Malhotra explains, "Due to these properties, lemon balm is highly effective in soothing mosquito bites. Applying it topically helps reduce redness, swelling, and itching." The herb's natural compounds, including tannins and rosmarinic acid, work to calm the skin while promoting healing.

Lemon balm is also widely used as a natural insect repellent. A 2002 study published in the Iranian Journal of Public Health found that lemon balm essential oil provided 60% protection against mosquitoes.

Additionally, in a 2018 study published in PeerJ, participants confirmed the effectiveness of using lemon balm as a natural repellent spray to protect themselves from mosquitoes.

Lemon balm serves both as a treatment and a preventive measure against mosquito bites, making it an excellent herb for natural first aid.

How to Use Lemon Balm for Mosquito Bites

Lemon Balm Essential Oil

To relieve itching and swelling caused by mosquito bites, lemon balm leaves can be used in the following ways:

• Direct Application: Crush fresh lemon balm leaves and rub them directly on the bite for immediate relief.
• Tea Compress: Brew lemon balm tea, let it cool, and use a cotton pad to apply it to the affected area.
• Essential Oil: Mix a few drops of lemon balm essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil and dab it onto the bite. Dr. Malhotra advises, "Always dilute essential oils to avoid irritation, especially on sensitive skin."

Regular use of lemon balm for mosquito bites helps speed up healing and reduces the urge to scratch, minimizing the risk of infection.

How to Use Lemon Balm to Repel Mosquitoes

"Lemon balm can be used as a natural mosquito repellent by utilizing the citronellal content in its leaves, which repels flying insects," says the expert.

• Rub fresh leaves on exposed skin to create a protective layer.
• Spray: Make a mosquito-repellent spray by soaking lemon balm leaves in witch hazel or vinegar.
• Essential Oil Blend: Combine lemon balm essential oil with other mosquito-repelling oils like eucalyptus or citronella, dilute with water, and use as a homemade spray. Shake well before use for optimal protection.

"Natural repellents like lemon balm are safer alternatives to synthetic sprays, especially for children and those with allergies. They also provide an eco-friendly and effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay," the expert concludes.