Lemon Balm - Growing Like a Weed on the West Coast

It is that time of year again where everything in the garden is sprouting like mad. One plant I want to write about here is lemon balm - it is growing everywhere in our back garden. I don't like to yank it out because it is such a special plant, it smells so fresh and makes a healthy tea. I read about this plant, its medicinal and soothing qualities and I am absolutely thrilled to have this growing in abundance. Both Richard and I love teas, we are 'tea toddlers' during the week and usually drink organic herbal teas. I am anxious to make our own from what grows in our own back yard - mints and lemon balm are a good start. There are oodles of websites on herbs and teas - if anyone has recommendations on this subject, I welcome your input. I welcome knowledge and advice from other gardeners, herbalists and organic growers - I am always learning and there is so much more to learn! I will also share with you my 'tea toddling' stories!

Here is one site I found (there are SO many websites on lemon balm) ...click here to view.
Tomorrow I will venture out to our back garden to add a few photos here. I am off to bed now....feel very sleepy after herbal tea......night! Thank you for visiting Mich's West Coast Journal. Michelle

Lemon Balm

The deer were kind and left us with one tulip!



Lemon Balm Tea

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 Cups lemon balm leaves, fresh
• Honey or other sweetener
• Water

Preparation:

Bring 8 cups water to a boil, and add the leaves. Reduce heat and allow to steep for about 15 minutes. Strain leaves out, and then add honey or other sweetener to taste. If the tea is too strong, add a bit of water to thin it out. Pour into an ice-filled pitcher and serve. You may want to add a sprig of mint for garnish.