For a soothing herbal drink, Lemon Balm tea combines fresh leaves and honey in a warm infusion that’s simple to simmer. This calming beverage, brightened with lemon zest, offers a fragrant escape for quiet afternoons or winding down evenings. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect caffeine-free sip to relax and refresh your senses.
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Ingredients for Lemon Balm
For the infusion
- Fresh Lemon Balm Leaves – Rinse them well and pat dry for the best flavor.
- Honey – Adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Use freshly squeezed for the brightest tang.
- Lemon Zest – A little goes a long way to amp up the citrusy notes.
- Water – The base of the infusion, so make sure it’s clean and fresh.
Cook Time for Lemon Balm Tea
I love how quickly this lemon balm infusion comes together. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a soothing hot drink with zest but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
If you’re looking for other quick beverage ideas, you might enjoy my lemon ginger tonic that’s equally simple to prepare.
How to Make Lemon Balm Infusion
Step 1: Prepare the Leaves
Rinse 1 cup of fresh lemon balm leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat the leaves dry using a clean kitchen towel, ensuring they remain intact.
Step 2: Create the Base
In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a spoon, until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture appears smooth.
Step 3: Infuse the Lemon Balm
Add the rinsed lemon balm leaves to the saucepan and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, ensuring it does not come to a boil, to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 4: Add Citrus Notes
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Let the mixture steep for an additional 5 minutes to deepen the flavor profile.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or jar. Use the back of a spoon to gently press on the lemon balm leaves to extract all the liquid. Discard the used leaves.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Creation
Allow the infused liquid to cool to room temperature. Serve immediately over ice or refrigerate until chilled for a refreshing drink.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this lemon balm tea even more special. Here are my favorite ways to customize this sweet and tangy herbal infusion to suit any mood or occasion.
- Flavor Swap: Try using fresh mint or lavender along with your lemon balm for a more complex herbal profile that still lets the lemon notes shine through.
- Diet Tweak: For a sugar-free version, swap honey with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. This makes it perfect for those watching their sugar intake while still enjoying a refreshing summer beverage.
- Texture Fix: If you prefer a clearer tea, avoid pressing the leaves too hard when straining. For a stronger flavor, gently muddle the leaves before steeping.
- Storage Tip: This lemon balm infusion keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often make a double batch to have a refreshing cold brew with citrus ready to enjoy. For more infused drink ideas, check out my infused water recipes and hibiscus tea guide.
Lemon Balm
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cups water
Equipment
- saucepan
- fine mesh sieve
Method
- Rinse the lemon balm leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and honey. Heat over medium heat until the honey is fully dissolved, stirring occasionally.
- Add the lemon balm leaves to the saucepan and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t come to a boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Let the mixture steep for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or jar, pressing gently on the leaves to extract all the liquid. Discard the used lemon balm leaves.
- Allow the infused liquid to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled or serve immediately over ice.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
Beyond its delightful flavor, I’ve always appreciated how this lemon balm infusion offers gentle wellness benefits that have been cherished for generations. While I’m no doctor, I can share what I’ve learned from both tradition and modern research about this wonderful herb.
Fresh lemon balm leaves contain beneficial compounds like rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, which contribute to its calming properties. When steeped as a tea, it becomes a soothing hot drink with zest that feels like a warm hug for your senses.
Many people enjoy lemon balm tea for its potential to support relaxation and digestive comfort. The lemon balm safety profile is generally favorable for most adults when consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.
What I love most is how this herbal tea recipe fits perfectly into a health-conscious lifestyle. The natural sweetness from honey and bright citrus notes make it feel like a treat while still being light and refreshing.
For other nutritious drink options, you might enjoy my green lemonade smoothie or explore the benefits of cucumber mint water for hydration.
A Lighter Version of Lemon Balm Tea
I understand that sometimes we need to watch our sugar intake without sacrificing flavor. Over the years, I’ve perfected a lighter version of this lemon balm infusion that’s just as satisfying.
For a completely sugar-free option, replace honey with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Start with just a small amount and adjust to taste, as these alternatives can be much sweeter than traditional sweeteners.
You can also enhance the natural citrus flavors by adding an extra teaspoon of lemon zest and a splash of orange extract. This creates a zesty infused beverage with lemon that doesn’t rely on sweeteners for its appeal.
If you’re making a refreshing cold brew with citrus, try infusing it with additional herbs like mint or basil. These add complexity without calories, creating a more interesting flavor profile that stands on its own.
For more light beverage inspiration, check out my lemon chia fresca or this refreshing green tea lemonade that’s perfect for warm days.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I’ve shared this lemon balm tea with friends and family who have different dietary needs, and I’ve learned that small adjustments can make it welcoming for everyone. It’s all about keeping that comforting essence while making it work for various preferences.
For my sugar-conscious friends, I often suggest using stevia or monk fruit as natural sweetener alternatives. These options provide sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels, making the infusion more glucose-friendly.
If you’re watching your glycemic intake, consider using less sweetener overall and letting the natural flavors of the lemon balm and citrus shine through. Sometimes just a hint of sweetness is all you need to balance the bright, herbal notes.
For those avoiding sweeteners entirely, try adding a cinnamon stick during the steeping process. It adds warmth and subtle sweetness without any sugar, creating a diabetic-friendly version that still feels special.
How to Serve Lemon Balm Tea
I remember the first time I served this lemon balm infusion to my grandmother on her porch one summer evening. The way her face lit up at the fragrant steam rising from the cup told me I’d created something special.
She shared stories of her mother growing lemon balm in their backyard garden, and how they’d make a similar infusion when someone needed comfort or couldn’t sleep. That connection across generations is what makes this sweet and tangy herbal infusion so meaningful to me.
For afternoon gatherings, I love serving this steeped herbal tea with honey alongside light cookies or lemon shortbread. The combination makes for a lovely teatime experience that feels both elegant and comforting.
In the evening, I often pair it with a good book and some soft music. The calming properties of lemon balm make it perfect for unwinding after a long day, creating a peaceful moment of self-care.
During warmer months, turn it into a refreshing summer beverage by pouring it over ice with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices. It becomes a completely different experience that’s perfect for porch sitting or garden parties.
For other serving ideas, you might enjoy my cardamom lemonade or explore various healthy drink recipes for different occasions.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way when making lemon balm tea over the years, and I’d love to help you avoid these common pitfalls. These simple adjustments can turn a good infusion into something truly exceptional.
First, never use boiling water for your lemon balm infusion. I once scorched the delicate leaves and ended up with a bitter, unpleasant tea. Instead, let your water cool for a minute after boiling to preserve those beautiful citrus notes.
Another mistake I see is overcrowding the teapot. While it’s tempting to pack in those fragrant leaves, too much lemon balm can make your tea overly strong and sometimes even slightly astringent. A gentle handful is all you need for that perfect balance.
Don’t forget about steeping time either. I once got distracted chatting with a neighbor and let my lemon balm tea steep for nearly twenty minutes. The result was much stronger than I prefer. For that ideal soothing hot drink with zest, five to seven minutes is usually perfect.
For those exploring other herbal options, you might find my hibiscus tea recipe helpful, or consider trying this refreshing infused water for variety.
When it comes to lemon balm safety profile, remember that proper preparation makes all the difference in enjoying this wonderful herb.
How to Store Lemon Balm
I’ll never forget the summer my aunt gifted me an enormous bouquet of lemon balm from her garden. I felt overwhelmed at first, wondering how I’d use it all before it wilted. That’s when I discovered several storage methods that keep this precious herb fresh for weeks.
For fresh lemon balm, treat it like a bouquet of flowers. Trim the stems and place them in a jar with an inch of water, then cover loosely with a plastic bag. This keeps leaves vibrant for up to a week in the refrigerator.
You can also dry lemon balm for long-term storage. I like to tie small bunches and hang them upside down in a warm, dry spot away from direct sunlight. Once completely dry, the leaves crumble easily for storing in airtight containers.
Freezing is another wonderful option. I often chop fresh lemon balm and freeze it in ice cube trays with water or olive oil. These little flavor cubes are perfect for adding to soups, teas, or even lemon ginger tonic throughout the year.
For more preservation ideas, check out my apple cider vinegar drink which also uses herbs that store well.
Try This Lemon Balm Yourself
I hope this guide inspires you to welcome lemon balm into your kitchen and create your own memories with this versatile herb. There’s something magical about stepping outside to gather fresh leaves knowing you’re about to create something both nourishing and delightful.
I remember the first time I served my homemade lemon balm infusion to friends during our weekly book club meeting. The conversation flowed as smoothly as the tea, and several friends asked for the recipe before they left. That’s when I knew this soothing hot drink with zest had become part of our tradition.
Whether you’re seeking a refreshing summer beverage, a calming evening ritual, or simply a new way to connect with nature’s gifts, lemon balm offers so much versatility. Your perfect cup of this sweet and tangy herbal infusion awaits.
If you enjoy experimenting with herbal drinks, you might also love my lemon ginger tonic drink recipe, this vibrant hibiscus tea recipe drink, or the refreshing green tea lemonade drink recipe.
For something truly unique, try my charcoal lemonade recipe or explore the benefits of this grapefruit apple cider vinegar drink for another healthy option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of lemon balm?
Lemon balm offers wonderful calming properties and digestive support that people have cherished for generations. Many enjoy it as a soothing herbal tea recipe that provides relaxation and comfort. The fresh leaves contain beneficial compounds that contribute to its gentle wellness benefits.
Does lemon balm help with weight loss?
While lemon balm isn’t a magic solution for weight loss, it can be part of a healthy lifestyle. Replacing sugary drinks with this refreshing cold brew with citrus helps reduce calorie intake naturally. The herb’s calming properties may also support overall wellness habits that contribute to healthy weight management.
Can I drink lemon balm tea every day?
Most people can enjoy lemon balm tea daily as part of a balanced routine. I’ve personally enjoyed this lemon balm infusion most evenings for years without issues. As with any herb, moderation is key, and it’s always wise to listen to your body’s responses.
Who should not take lemon balm?
Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications should consult their healthcare provider before using lemon balm regularly. People with thyroid conditions may also want to exercise caution, as lemon balm can potentially affect thyroid function in some cases.
More Refreshing Drinks to Explore
If you loved this lemon balm guide, you might enjoy these other delightful beverage recipes that bring both flavor and wellness to your table.
Lemon Chia Fresca – A hydrating powerhouse with zesty lemon and nutrient-packed chia seeds that keep you refreshed all day.
Green Lemonade Smoothie – A vibrant blend of greens and citrus that tastes like sunshine in a glass while nourishing your body.
Cucumber Mint Water – The ultimate spa-like infusion that turns ordinary hydration into something truly special and refreshing.
Cardamom Lemonade – An exotic twist on classic lemonade with warm spice notes that make every sip an adventure.
