Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), also known as bee balm, has fresh, lemon-scented leaves, similar in appearance to mint. The soft, green, heart-shaped leaves may be added to salads, soups and stuffings and make an attractive garnish for both sweet and savoury dishes. However, they should be added in moderation as they can impart a slightly bitter taste. When dried, the leaves may be made into a relaxing herbal infusion. Lemon balm also gives its essence to Chartreuse, a green and potent liqueur made by French monks, flavoured with 130 herbal extracts.