Melissa officinalis is more commonly known as Lemon Balm. It supports a healthy immune system function. It is strengthening and revitalising, yet soothing and calming making it good to ease stress. Because Lemon Balm is very popular in the perfume industry and the plant has a very low oil yield, the distillation cost is extremely high for this oil especially for therapeutic purposes.
Here is an idea of the cost and volume of plant material required to product Melissa essential oil:
So, pure therapeutic grade Melissa oil ranges in price from $150 to $225 for a 5 ml bottle! You might easily find it on the internet for $10 for the same size bottle but it will be seriously compromised in terms of quality. This is an oil that is very frequently adulterated with Lemongrass and Citronella essential oils because the combination of the two smell very similar to Lemon Balm (Melissa).
Emotionally, Melissa is said to support a person through spiritual awakening. It awakens the soul to truth and light. Like citrus oils, its citrus-like aroma is calming and uplifting to the mind but especially to the soul. It supports a person in remembering “who they are and why they are here”. Melissa welcomes the release of everything and anything that holds us back from reaching our full potential. Melissa reconnects us with our inner voice and helps prepare us to up-level our game.
This oil is so good for those moments of darkness when we are feeling burdened by life, in the depths of hopelessness or self-doubt, feeling desperate and unable to move forward. Melissa can open us up to the potential of joy, teaching us how to allow it to flow through us and our life again (especially when that seems like an impossible feat). It lifts us up out of dark places and back into life and hope. Melissa helps those who are very sensitive and feel pressure easily and are emotionally shut down. Lemon balm helps restore clarity and brings support and balance back into the soul so once again a we may have a positive outlook on our life and well-being.
Melissa reminds us that we all have a spiritual, divine spark within us and with the right attention and care, that spark can grow. This spark of energy can reignite your True Self. Melissa helps shed everything that is not in alignment with that inner spark and light. Melissa’s enthusiasm is so contagious. Don’t be surprised if you take a drop of Melissa oil at the roof of your mouth and start laughing hysterically! Through its intense light and vibration, Melissa invites the individual to let go of depression and other lower vibrations and propels you into the joy of being alive.
Melissa blends well with other citrus oils, Cypress, Geranium, Lavender, Thyme.
Depending on your uses for this oil, substitutes may include: Bergamot, Melaleuca, Oregano, Thyme, Wild Orange.
Always test for skin sensitivity prior to widespread use and use on the feet when possible. Excessive use of any oil can lead to skin sensitisation. Keep out of eyes, ears, or nose. Not all oils are created equal, so test brands carefully, and never use an oil in a way not recommended by its maker.