Melissa officinalis, or lemon balm, is an herb from the mint, sage, and deadnettle (Lamiaceae) family that is commonly used to flavor food and beverages.
This citrus-scented herbaceous flowering plant is not only cultivated for its essential oil, which has applications in traditional medicine, perfumery, aromatherapy, and other areas, but also as an ornamental plant.
Is Lemon Balm Safe For Cats?
Yes. Cats can eat lemon balm without worry. Chopped fresh leaves or ground dried leaves are both fine options for your feline friend’s diet. They are safe to ingest.
Cats won’t get sick from it, but moderation is key. Depending on the size of your furry friend, half a teaspoon to a full teaspoon.
Most cats dislike the citrusy aroma of this herb, so it’s best to incorporate it into their diet by cooking with it or serving it as a tea.
More About Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis, or lemon balm, is an insect-repellent plant that gets its name from its citrusy scent.
Balm, common balm, and balm mint are just some of the many names for this plant.
Like sage, mint, and other related plants, lemon balm is a member of the Lamiaceae family. It has a medium height, a stem with four angles, and tiny, pale yellow flowers.
The plant’s roots can be found in Europe. Melissa officinalis, however, has become naturalized in several regions around the world as a result of its enormous medicinal properties. The plant is picked several times between June and September in the United States.
Lemon balm is notable for its rapid growth and invasive nature if it is allowed to roam free in a garden.
Most commonly, lemon balm is added to food and tea as a flavoring agent. It also yields an essential oil with applications in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and medicine.
After giving it a proper introduction, you may be wondering if cats can get sick from eating lemon balm.
We’ve already established that lemon balm is a safe plant that provides numerous advantages to your cat’s health and nutrition.
Benefits of Lemon Balm
At least eight of lemon balm’s compounds are antiviral, eight are sedative, and twelve are anti-inflammatory.
Lemon balm’s antibacterial, antihistamine, antispasmodic, and antioxidant properties are less well known than its carminative and antidepressant uses.
Thyroid function can be slowed, blood pressure can be lowered, intestinal gas can be expelled, and perspiration can be increased by using lemon balm.
Particularly in hyperthyroid cats, it is thought to prevent iodide uptake and the attachment of antibodies to thyroid cells. This herb has been shown to have a mild vasodilatory effect and a tonic effect on the cardiovascular system.
Melissa oil
The oil extracted from the Melissa officinalis plant, commonly known as Melissa oil, also has numerous uses. Many essential oils, however, are not safe for cats, so it’s best to check with your vet first.
Ways to Use Lemon Balm for Cats
You can give your cat dried lemon balm leaves or a powder made from ground up dried leaves. A handful of the dried leaves or a teaspoon of the powder can be given to your kitto.
Depending on the severity of your condition, the recommended dosage may be as high as three times daily.
Melissa oil, also known as Melissa officinalis oil, is another option. Many of the benefits of ground lemon balm are also present in melissa oil. You should talk to your vet before giving the oil to your cat.
Conclusion
Lemon balm is safe for cats to consume in moderation. Nothing to worry about. To counteract the positive effects, however, an overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Finally, some cats may be allergic to this herb even though it only rarely triggers allergic reactions. If they show symptoms of an allergy, it is important to discontinue use.