Is melissa essential oil a strong anti-inflammatory?

Melissa oil is a great choice for relieving pain or discomfort caused by inflammation, having powerful anti-inflammatory properties that have been heavily noted by researchers.

A study in 2013 found that melissa oil was able to significantly reduce and inhibit edema - a swelling caused by fluid trapped in the body’s tissue – by minimising inflammation and pain within the affected area.

If you find yourself suffering from inflamed muscles or joints, topically applying some diluted melissa oil may help relieve the area.

Some sources claim that ingesting the oil may also provide a similar effect, however it is never recommended to ingest any type of essential oil.

Can melissa oil help prevent infections?

Many studies have tested melissa oil effectiveness on various strains of bacteria and the infections they lead to.

A study in 2008, for example, tested the oil’s effectiveness on several complex bacteria types, including candida, and found that it exhibited a high amount of antibacterial activity – surprisingly higher than that of the famous lavender oil.

This is thought to be due to the presence of melissa’s natural components citral, citronellal, and trans-caryophyllene, which all have strong antimicrobial qualities.

Does melissa essential oil promote skin health?

Melissa oil has gained significant traction as a natural way to treat acne, eczema, and other related skin conditions that can often be debilitating to the sufferer.

These effects are thanks to the oil’s antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its gentle treatment of the skin.

In various studies, melissa oil has been found to speed up the healing times of these conditions, as well as those of minor skin wounds.

Is melissa oil good for treating cold sores?

Melissa oil is also a famously effective home remedy against cold sores.

It is able to fight and inhibit the spread of all viral infections within the herpes family (which common cold sores are a part of) and can be especially useful for those who have a greater resistance to anti-viral medications.

A study in 2008 found that melissa oil was able to successfully eradicate more than one strain of the herpes virus almost completely, leading to scientific belief that topical application could be a sufficient remedy against the condition.

These findings are not only due to the oil’s antiviral effects, but also its lipophilic nature, which allows the oil to dissolve easily through the skin.

Can melissa essential oil help to lift mood?

Melissa oil has been said by many to have effective antidepressant and sedative properties which can help balance emotions and promote a sense of relaxation.

A study in 2013 at the University of Melbourne found that melissa essential oil was able to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression in participants, as well as boost their cognition overall.

A similar effect was observed among young volunteers in a 2002 study, when simply exposing the participants to low doses of the oil still managed to result in an increase in calmness.

How do I use Melissa Essential Oil?

Aromatherapy

The sweet, lightly citrusy aromas of melissa oil are a welcome addition for those that appreciate summery, balsamic, and herbaceous scents in their home.

Melissa oil is also known to help increase positivity and promote relaxation overall, so carrying some with you to gently inhale in times of anxiety can help give you a much-needed boost.

You can also try adding a few drops to your diffuser or oil burner to encourage a sense of calm in your spaces.

Skincare

The benefits of melissa oil for skin are certainly not going unnoticed and incorporating it into your daily wellness routine may be a good way to reduce any bacteria building up on the skin.

Melissa is particularly useful for sufferers of acne, eczema, or any other debilitating skin conditions, as it is naturally very gentle. Try combining a small amount with a skin-soothing carrier oil and spot-treating flared areas.

Massage

Diluting melissa with a carrier oil and massaging it into painful or inflamed areas of the body may be a good way to provide effective, all-natural relief.

This is due to the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and repair these areas over time.

Candle making & soap making

Like all essential oils, melissa oil makes for a fantastic scent note in any aromatherapy project.

Make sure you’re following a tested recipe if you’re new to crafting, or feel free to check out some of our beginner’s guides for a helping hand.

What is the history of melissa essential oil?

Described by the 17^th century herbalist John Evelyn as the “ruler of the brain”, melissa oil has celebrated many historical applications across numerous societies for its memory-boosting, mood-lifting effects.

In fact, 16^th century physician Paracelsus believed the oil’s effects were so strong that they could completely revive a man.

Having been used for over 2000 years, originally by the Greeks and Romans, the melissa herb spread across Europe and was eventually taken by early colonists to the newly established Americas.

It was from there that the herb was said to be cultivated by Thomas Jefferson in his personal gardens.

Melissa oil has been consistently used for its cheering, uplifting effects for centuries – an impressive endurance that shows just how special the oil is.

Whilst getting your hands on absolute melissa oil may prove very expensive, the altered products on the market share enough of these benefits to give you that sunny feeling.