May 14, 2012

Can you tell the difference

When I went to plant some mint I had a bit of surprise. I could not tell the difference between the mint and the lemon balm. Both are visually very similar. Can you tell the difference?

 Lemon Balm

  • Lemon Balm is a perennial herb in the mint family Lamiaceae.  It grows to 70–150 cm tall. The leaves have a gentle lemon scent, related to mint. During summer, small white flowers full of nectar appear. These attract bees.
  • The crushed leaves, when rubbed on the skin, are used as a repellant for mosquitos.
  • It is claimed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties (it is effective against herpes simplex).
  • Lemon balm should be avoided by those on thyroid medication (such as thyroxine), as it is believed the herb inhibits the absorption of this medicine.
  • Lemon balm contains eugenol, which kills bacteria and has been shown to calm muscles and numb tissues

Mint

  • It is a herbaceous rhizomatous perennial plant growing to 30–90 cm
  • It is considered invasive
  • Peppermint has a high menthol content, and is often used as tea and for flavouring ice cream, confectionery, chewing gum, and toothpaste
  •  it has been known to help with insomnia
  • One animal study has suggested that Peppermint may have radioprotective effects in patients undergoing cancer treatment
  • The aroma of peppermint has been found to enhance memory
  • Peppermint oil has a high concentration of natural pesticides, mainly menthone
  •  If you have any questions or suggestions for this post feel free to leave a comment or e-mail us at thehomesteadjones@yahoo.com.

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