10/16/2021
(2/2)Now that you understand why sleep may elude you in the early hours, what can you do about it? Even the most dedicated Planners still face stressors on occasion. Stress increases cortisol and all of a sudden it may seem all your hard work Planning is in a holding pattern. Since our weight and mood are both effected by sleep it can be a vicious cycle you might have a hard time breaking. In this regard, I consider lemon balm to be the SUPER herb.
Prescribed as a medicinal herb since ancient Greek times, lemon balm has long been known to relieve anxiety, promote sleep, and sooth agitation. Since this botanical extract cannot be patented, its beneficial effects have been completely ignored by pharmaceutical interests.
“Lemon balm contains a compound known as rosmarinic acid that appears to have powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Antioxidants help prevent cell damage, while antimicrobials kill infection-causing organisms like bacteria and viruses.”
“Studies have suggested that rosmarinic acid increases the levels and activity of a neurotransmitter in the brain known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Low levels of GABA in the brain are believed to be associated with anxiety and other mood disorders.4”
“In the same way it relieves anxiety, rosmarinic acid is believed to improve sleep in people with insomnia.”
“According to a 2013 study in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, lemon balm combined with valerian root significantly improved sleep quality in 100 women with menopause when compared to a placebo.”
Lemon balm, a herb long used to treat stress, anxiety, and insomnia, is believed by some to fight cold sores and ease the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
