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Dear Pharmacist: I often feel worried and anxious, and I don't sleep well. I know I'm a wreck, but I refuse tranquilizers because they are addictive. I also have a weak stomach. Is there anything natural? - D.E. Idaho Falls, Idaho

There are lots of choices for these ailments, and my favorite is lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). For centuries, it's helped relieve the digestive woes of many folks feeling stressed-out. The coolest thing about lemon balm is that one of its primary ingredients is citronella, an essential oil frequently used in mosquito-repellent candles. Lemon balm also contains anti-microbial tannins and eugenol, which helps reduce muscle spasms. The scientific literature I've read shows that lemon balm herb can relax you, help you sleep, relieve pain and soothe stomach discomfort (gas, bloating and nausea).

Another lovely thing about lemon balm is its ability to mildly dilate your blood vessels and lower blood pressure. This is a very subtle benefit, so don't toss out your BP meds!

Lemon balm can also be used to treat cold sores. Steep 3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes. Cool and apply the tea-water to your cold sores with gauze. Prepared "lemon balm cream" is also sold commercially.

If you want to try lemon balm, you have lots of choices. You can buy an essential oil for external use only. Sniff before bedtime to prevent nightmares in children, or take a whiff to instantly relieve your anxiety.

You can also buy it in commercially prepared formulas, either by itself, or in combination with other calming herbs such as valerian, hops and chamomile; these are intended for sleep. You can buy capsules or prepared teas or in bulk. I steep 3 tablespoons of it in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes and then add spearmint leaves and honey. It has a light and fresh citrus-mint flavor. You can chill the tea and sip all day to improve mood.

info@dearpharmacist.com  (c) 2010 Tulsa World. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.

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