Although lemon balm has been recognized by the European Medicines Agency as a traditional herbal medicinal for digestion,[1] there isn’t much human research into this use.[2] Most studies have focused on lemon balm in combination with several other herbs. A 2019 in vitro study of lemon balm extract on mouse digestive system tissue (outside the mouse) found that lemon balm extract had a spasmolytic (muscle-relaxing) effect,[2] which is in line with lemon balm’s traditional use as a digestive aid; however, much more research is needed into lemon balm’s effect on the human digestive system.
Does lemon balm help digestion?
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•Last Updated: April 23, 2025
Lemon balm is recognized by the European Medicines Agency as a traditional herbal remedy for digestion, but there is limited human research on its effectiveness. A 2019 study indicated that lemon balm extract has a muscle-relaxing effect on digestive tissue, which supports its traditional use, though further research is necessary.