Melissa
Melissa Officinalis
Melissa Oil, also known as Lemon Balm essential oil is a popular oil associated with sleep disorders, as it can help to regulate your sleeping pattern and enable you to fall asleep quicker. It can also work as a mood enhancer to help relieve the feelings associated with being sick.
History of Melissa Oil
Melissa Oil - also known as Lemon Balm - is one of the rarest essential oils there is because it takes a huge amount of the plant to produce a tiny little bottle of oil! Although it is rare, the Melissa plant grows all over the world but is thought to have originated in the Mediterranean and Asia. The word Melissa means “bee” in Greece, and the plant gained this name because it is often used to attract bees.
Some of the first recorded uses of Melissa Oil were in the ancient Middle East, where it was thought to lift moods and act as a sedative. It was also popular around the 14th century, where it was labelled “The Elixir of Life” by the “father of toxicology”, Paracelsus. In France, Melissa Oil was used in Carmelite Water, which was created by nuns to treat digestive problems, headaches and body odour. The alcoholic tonic was medicinal and luxurious, and is often cited as the first perfume!
So, how has the use of Melissa Oil changed since then?
Nowadays, Melissa Oil is still known for its mood-lifting abilities. Its scent is similar to May Chang or Citronella, but Melissa Oil is the rarest and most expensive of these. Despite its high price tag, Melissa Oil is a favourite in aromatherapy, as its uplifting but soothing effects are still its defining feature.
As well as its scent, Melissa Oil is loved in alternative medicine, most popularly as its anti-viral properties have been found to be effective against the symptoms of HSV (cold sores). Research has found that rubbing Melissa Oil onto cold sores can stop them from swelling and also from coming back! It is also used to fight stress, sleep problems, digestive issues and anxiety.
Melissa Oil has recently become popular in skincare due to its ability to fight bacteria whilst also soothing the skin. Particularly, it is used to fight acne, eczema and scars, but is thought to brighten and promote health in any skin type. Unlike some essential oils, Melissa Oil can be applied directly to most skin, because it is so gentle.
Even more recently, research has found support for Melissa Oil’s use to fight specific cancers. Whilst there is not enough research to support this use completely, it serves as a great reminder of the strength of Melissa Oil as a natural alternative to popular medicines.
Extracting Melissa Oil
Using a process called steam distillation. This is a very popular method of extracting an essential oil because it does not add any chemicals or alter the composition of the plant in any way. The oil is produced from the leaves and tops of the Melissa Officinalis plant, which are placed in steel drums. Steam is then passed over the plant, causing the droplets containing the oil to evaporate into water vapour. Lastly, the vapour is passed into a cooling chamber, where the oil rises to the top and can be easily collected.
The reason Melissa Oil is so rare is that the yield (how much oil can be produced from the plant) is very low. This means that you need much more of the plant than with other essential oils. Another reason that the oil is so rare is that the best quality is made from the leaves and tops that are harvested only in May or June, just before the flowering occurs. Once the flowers bloom, the quality of the oil is said to be reduced, which is why much of the plant is harvested for oil at this time.
Can I make Melissa Oil at home?
You could buy a small version of the steam distillation kit to produce your own Melissa OIl and, as the oil is more expensive than others, it might be a good option. If you did so, you would need to harvest a substantial amount of the Melissa plant’s leaves, at the correct time of year. Unlike other essential oils that are extracted with steam, we do not think that you could make Melissa Oil in a saucepan, because of the low yield. That means that, unless you live somewhere where it grows, it might not be possible for you to extract your own oil. We recommend buying your oil online, but make sure that you read the reviews carefully because Melissa Oil is one of the most commonly faked essential oils!
Have you ever experienced Melissa Oil? Is it a staple in your collection? As always, the Essentially Yours team loves hearing all about your essential oils journey. So, feel free to reach out to us with your stories today!
Can I make Melissa Oil at home?
You could buy a small version of the steam distillation kit to produce your own Melissa Oil and, as the oil is more expensive than others, it might be a good option. If you did so, you would need to harvest a substantial amount of the Melissa plant’s leaves, at the correct time of year. Unlike other essential oils that are extracted with steam, we do not think that you could make Melissa Oil in a saucepan, because of the low yield. That means that, unless you live somewhere where it grows, it might not be possible for you to extract your own oil. We recommend buying your oil online, but make sure that you read the reviews carefully because Melissa Oil is one of the most commonly faked essential oils!
Have you ever experienced Melissa Oil? Is it a staple in your collection? As always, the Essentially Yours team loves hearing all about your essential oils journey. So, feel free to reach out to us with your stories today!
Melissa Oil Varieties
Melissa Oil Varieties
Whilst there is only one species of Melissa Officinalis the quality of Melissa Oil can vary greatly based on what month the leaves and tops are harvested. The plants harvested in May and early June are of the best quality because that is when the smell is best. There are three types of oil produced, which can be high in either citral, citronella or sesquiterpene. It is the oils high in Citral that are the best quality, so look for retailers that provide results of the analysis of the steam distillation stage.
Like other essential oils, there are many fake imitations on the market, so it is important to do your research before buying. Many fake essential oils are either just vegetable oils with a tiny concentration of the real thing (if any!) or combinations of other, lower cost oils. Combinations of Citronella, May Chang Oil and artificial citrus flavours are just some of the essential oils used to pose as Melissa Oil in adulterated versions. Although the fakes are often much cheaper, they are much lower quality and can offer none of the benefits of true Melissa Oil.
It is highly unlikely that you will be able to find true Melissa Oil for a very low price, so try to resist cheap “deals”. Look for 100% Melissa Oil that is yellow in colour and of relatively thin consistency. It should also smell like natural, sweet, citrus flavour. As with buying all essential oils, reading reviews and doing your research can help you to avoid buying an imitation. Thoroughly research the seller and ask to see the results of an analysis. This should be conducted after the steam distillation, and if the results are not available then that is usually a bad sign.
How do you feel about Melissa Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? As always, the Essentially Yours team are eager to hear how you are getting on with your collection. So, reach out to us with your essential oil stories today!
Like other essential oils, there are many fake imitations on the market, so it is important to do your research before buying. Many fake essential oils are either just vegetable oils with a tiny concentration of the real thing (if any!) or combinations of other, lower cost oils. Combinations of Citronella, May Chang Oil and artificial citrus flavours are just some of the essential oils used to pose as Melissa Oil in adulterated versions. Although the fakes are often much cheaper, they are much lower quality and can offer none of the benefits of true Melissa Oil.
It is highly unlikely that you will be able to find true Melissa Oil for a very low price, so try to resist cheap “deals”. Look for 100% Melissa Oil that is yellow in colour and of relatively thin consistency. It should also smell like natural, sweet, citrus flavour. As with buying all essential oils, reading reviews and doing your research can help you to avoid buying an imitation. Thoroughly research the seller and ask to see the results of an analysis. This should be conducted after the steam distillation, and if the results are not available then that is usually a bad sign.
How do you feel about Melissa Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? As always, the Essentially Yours team are eager to hear how you are getting on with your collection. So, reach out to us with your essential oil stories today!
Benefits of Melissa Oil
Melissa Oil has been well-loved for centuries and is most popular these days in aromatherapy and alternative medicine. It is often used to treat digestive issues and sleeping problems, as well as to ease pain in symptoms such as migraines. Although there is only one variety of the plant, the way that it is produced can affect the quality of the oil. Additionally, Melissa OIl is one of the most frequently adulterated essential oils, meaning a large proportion of the oils available on the market might be fake.
So, what are the benefits of Melissa Oil?
Anti-anxiety
One reason that Melissa Oil is popular is its mood-enhancing abilities. Traditionally used to treat depression, it is still a popular aid in treating anxiety and stress. When used in aromatherapy, the oil rejuvenates, soothes and promotes balance all at once. Recent studies have also suggested the effective use of Melissa Oil to treat Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Anti-bacterial
Melissa Oil has effective anti-bacterial properties, but is also a gentle soother. This makes it perfect for any skincare regime, but it is especially great for those with acne or eczema. It is also used to treat infections such as bronchitis and flu.
Anti-viral
Numerous studies have supported the use of Melissa Oil to fight viral infections such as HSV. Research has shown that, if applied directly to the skin, Melissa Oil can prevent cold sores from returning, as well as reducing redness and swelling.
Pain relief
Of digestive complaints, menstrual cramps and headaches, Melissa Oil is a great reliever. Rubbing a few drops onto pressure points or affected area may reduce pain even in disorders such as migraines.
Sedative
Used for centuries to help people sleep, Melissa Oil is soothing and relaxing, and is used in modern medicine to treat insomnia and restlessness. Its use as a sedative also makes Melissa Oil great for treating shock, stress and spasms.
These are just some of the benefits of Melissa Oil, and it is important to remember that what works for one person might not work for another. So, do not be disheartened if a particular benefit does not appear to work for you. There are loads of other things that Melissa Oil can do and, like any essential oil, finding out what those are is all part of the fun!
Uses of Melissa Oil
Here at Essentially Yours, we love sharing our knowledge so that you can love your essential oils as much as we do! Whether you are not sure how to start, or you are looking for a way to mix it up, our website has all the tips and tricks you’ll need! In this blog, we will talk about some of the uses for Melissa Oil. Remember that these are just some of our favourites, and the list is by no means exhaustive!
Aromatherapy
Perhaps its most popular use in modern times, the soothing scent of Melissa Oil makes it a must-have for any aromatherapist. The ability to soothe and energise simultaneously is something that only a few essential oils can do, and is one of our favourite things about it! Add a few drops to your electric diffuser for a mood enhancement!
Confidence boost
Rub a few drops onto your hands, rub together and inhale the fumes for a quick dose of confidence! You could also put a few drops in your diffuser for steady positive energy.
De-stress
Rubbing a few drops over your hands and inhaling the fumes is the most commonly suggested way to use Melissa Oil to reduce stress, anxiety and nervousness. You could also put a couple of drops in the bath (perhaps along with some May Chang oil!) and wait for the calm to wash over you.
Digestive-aid
One way that Melissa Oil was used for centuries was to treat indigestion and other stomach problems. Mix a few drops with your favourite carrier oil and rub the blend onto your stomach for help settle your stomach and keep things inside working well.
Fighting viruses
Melissa Oil can reduce the redness and swelling associated with cold sores or warts, and is also thought to prevent them from returning. The anti-viral properties are effective, and the oil also soothes and cleanses the area at the same time.
Skincare
As you can probably tell, we love how soothing Melissa Oil is! It is this that makes it amazing in skincare, as it can fight bacteria without drying out or irritating your skin. A few drops in your moisturiser is one way to harness Melissa Oil’s unique skincare effects. This is particularly effective for skin problems where redness is an issue, such as acne or eczema, but is also a great addition to any skin routine because of its firming properties.
Sleep-aid
One of the earliest uses for Melissa Oil in modern medicine was to help treat insomnia. Create your own pillow spray by mixing a few drops of Melissa Oil and a few drops of Lavender Oil with some water in a spray bottle. Spray onto your pillow before you sleep for a dreamy night.
Blends well with
Melissa Oil has been used for hundreds of years and is thought to have originated in Europe. It is most famous for its unique ability to energise and soothe simultaneously, which makes it great for reducing stress and providing a confidence boost. Melissa Oil has a sweet, earthy citrus aroma, so it blends well with other citrus tones, as well as earthy or herby scents. Here are some of our favourite blends, but remember that these are just a few of many amazing combinations.
Almond Oil
A carrier oil that not only smells great but also feels amazing on the skin. Sweet and nutty Almond Oil would be a great choice if you wanted to make your own serum, moisturiser or other skincare product.
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Frankincense Oil
The earthy tones of frankincense compliment Melissa Oil’s delicate citrus aroma to create a musky, spiritual blend that is calm and fulfilling. Both oils have skin-tightening properties, so this is also a great blend to add to a moisturiser, massage oil or facial mist.
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Geranium Oil
If there was one other oil that represents confidence and energy, it’s Geranium Oil! The sweet, floral scent not only compliments lemony Melissa Oil perfectly but is also used to promote balance, rejuvenate and uplift too, making the two a fabulous pair. We highly recommend combining both oils in an electric diffuser or, if you don’t have one, your bath!
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Oregano Oil
An essential oil better known for the plant from which it is extracted, the fresh, herby scent of Oregano blends with Melissa Oil to make an uplifting, earthy aroma. Both oils are used to treat acne, and adding Oregano Oil to a skincare blend will also help to reduce scarring.
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Tangerine Oil
Another skincare favourite, Tangerine Oil’s sweet scent make a great citrus blend when mixed with Melissa. Tangerine Oil would be a great third addition to that facial mist with Frankincense! Both oils are used to aid sleep, so together they also make the perfect aromatherapy blend for relaxation.
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Ylang Ylang Oil
The spicy aroma of Ylang Ylang Oil mixes with the sweet citrus of Melissa Oil beautifully. Being a well-known aphrodisiac makes Ylang Ylang the perfect aroma to blend with Melissa, as the combination increases energy and sensitivity to create a confident, sensual atmosphere.
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