Lemon Balm Powder

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family, native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. It is cultivated for its lemon-scented leaves, which are typically dried and ground into a powder for use in food and beverages.

Lemon balm powder is primarily used as a flavoring agent, imparting a mild, citrusy, mint-like taste. It is often found in beverages like flavored waters, teas, and powdered drink mixes, and can also be used in supplements.

In the U.S., lemon balm is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. Traditional uses suggest it may have calming effects, but scientific evidence for significant health benefits at typical dietary intake levels is limited and mixed. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have not set specific limits for its use as a food ingredient.