The potential of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) essential oil as an anti-anxiety agent – is the citronellal the activity carrier?

Thu, 06/29/2023 - 09:42

June 28, 2023

Anxiety is a growing issue in society, especially among young people. The terms anxious and being nervous are often used interchangeably, and it is pretty common to hear someone say that he is feeling anxious when faced with a situation that makes them uncomfortable. Normal anxiety levels represent our body alarm system, which improves people's attention and problem-solving, motivates work towards goal, and does not negatively interfere with daily functioning. Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric conditions; up to 33.7% of people suffer from an anxiety disorder during their lifetime. Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric conditions; up to 33.7% of people suffer from an anxiety disorder during their lifetime.  Among the fewest drugs discovered are those belonging to the class of anxiolytics. Although some drug targets for anxiety disorders are established, it is hard to modify and selectively choose the active principle for those targets. Thus, the ethno medical approach to treating anxiety disorders remains one of the most prevalent ways for (self)managing the symptoms. Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm) has been extensively used as an ethnomedicinal remedy for the treatment of different psyche-related symptoms, especially dose related to restlessness. According to studies, more than 40% of patients in Serbia suffering from different non-psychotic disorders use different herbal products for the treatment of their symptoms. One of the most frequently used plant species was reported to be Melissa officinalis. 

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Pop open a bottle of Thieves® essential oil blend and you’ll be transported by a powerful combination of Lemon, Clove, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Rosemary oils. Each drop contains the naturally occurring constituents limonene, cinnamaldehyde, and eucalyptol (among others) in a concentrated dose of “yes, please” perks for body and spirit. With a warm, sweet scent that’ll have you hooked at first drop, you’ll want to have it everywhere in your life—and you can!

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Essential Oils for Cleaning

When it comes to creating homemade bathroom cleaners the best way to avoid toxic chemicals in most commercial cleaners is to use essential oils known for their cleaning power. Here are some of my favorites to use in my homemade bathroom cleaners.

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