Lamiaceae
Melissa
Melissa officinalis
⚠ Use with Caution
Caution in Pregnancy
Origin: Mediterranean, Central Europe
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Extraction Method
Steam distillation
Plant Part
Leaves and flowers
Aroma Profile
Fresh, sweet, lemony, herbal, delicate
Dilution Ratio
1% (sensitization risk)
💧 Applications
🌬️ Aromatherapy🖐️ Topical (diluted)💨 Diffuser🛁 Bath
💊 Therapeutic Uses
Cold sores (Herpes simplex — clinical evidence), anxiety, insomnia, thyroid support, antiviral. Most adulterated essential oil.
🔬 Main Constituents
Neral, geranial (citral), beta-caryophyllene, linalool
🎨 Blends Well With
Bergamot, Chamomile, Geranium, Lavender, Rose
⚠️ Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: May interact with thyroid medications and sedatives. Use authentic oil (very expensive — often adulterated).
Side Effects: Skin sensitization, possible drug interactions