Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a common herb that’s often used in culinary dishes or tea infusions. It’s a soothing herb that also has many potential therapeutic properties. The use of lemon balm as a smokable alternative to tobacco and weed has been gaining traction lately. It’s a refreshing herb that offers a smooth, mild taste and a unique scent.
In combination with other herbs, lemon balm can create mood-boosting smoking blends. Its aroma is calming, and it’s also known to have psychoactive effects due to its trace amounts of harmine. It can also help reduce anxiety and promote sleepiness. Research published in 2014 found that lemon balm may improve mood and cognitive function, and can even ease depression.
Among other things, lemon balm can be used to treat digestive issues. It has been shown to reduce nausea and abdominal pain caused by functional dyspepsia. It has been cited as an effective remedy for people with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis.
Other herbs that are commonly smoked include mints like spearmint (Mentha spicata) and peppermint (Mentha x piperita), yerba mate (Mentha asiatica), and hibiscus flowers (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis). Smoke mixes also frequently contain ginger root (Zingiber officinale) because of its pleasant flavor and warming effect on the body. It can help to soothe sore throats and lungs, especially when paired with other herbs that are harsh on the lungs like sassafras or nettle leaves (Urtica dioica). Smoke mixes containing cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are popular because they provide a rich, warm flavor. They can also help regulate the harshness of the smoke by lowering the concentration of harmful compounds.