When lemon balm grows abundantly, it’s the perfect opportunity to trim it back and make the most of those fragrant, citrusy leaves. This versatile herb can be used in cooking, natural remedies, household freshening, and even garden care. Here are 20 creative ways to put that surplus of lemon balm to good use:
1. Lemon Balm Tea
- Simply dry the leaves, then steep in hot water for a calming tea that can relieve stress and promote digestion.
2. Flavored Vinegar
- Steep lemon balm leaves in white or apple cider vinegar to create a herb-infused vinegar that’s perfect for salads or marinades.
3. Lemon Balm-Infused Oil
- Use olive oil to infuse the lemon balm and create a fragrant oil that can be added to recipes or used as a soothing massage oil.
4. Natural Bug Repellent
- Crush fresh lemon balm leaves and rub on your skin as a mild bug repellent, or make a spray by boiling the leaves in water.
5. Aromatherapy Sachets
- Dry lemon balm leaves and put them in small cloth bags. Place these sachets in drawers or closets for a refreshing, citrusy scent.
6. Lemon Balm Pesto
- Substitute lemon balm for basil in pesto. Blend with garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan for a unique, lemony pesto.
7. Herbal Ice Cubes
- Freeze whole or chopped lemon balm leaves in ice cube trays with water. Add these to drinks for a herbal twist.
8. Bath Soak
- Add lemon balm leaves to your bath for a refreshing, skin-soothing soak with a hint of natural fragrance.
9. Homemade Lemon Balm Syrup
- Make a syrup by boiling lemon balm leaves with sugar and water, which can be used in drinks, desserts, or over pancakes.
10. DIY Facial Toner
- Brew a strong lemon balm tea, let it cool, and use it as a facial toner to help reduce redness and calm irritated skin.
11. Natural Cleaner
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