Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a wonderfully fragrant herb from the mint family, loved for its bright, citrusy scent and calming effects. Whether you’re harvesting it fresh from your garden or bringing home a bunch from the market, knowing how to store it properly will help you preserve its aroma, flavor, and benefits.
Short-Term Storage (Fresh Use)
For short-term use, you can store fresh lemon balm in the refrigerator. Start by rinsing the leaves gently and patting them dry. Then wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel and place the bundle in an airtight container or plastic bag. Stored this way in your fridge’s vegetable drawer, lemon balm can stay fresh for up to five days. Alternatively, you can keep the stems in a glass of water, like a bouquet, loosely covered with a plastic bag. This method keeps the leaves hydrated and vibrant for 2 to 3 days on your kitchen counter—just be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight.
Freezing Lemon Balm
If you’d like to keep lemon balm on hand for longer, freezing is a great option. One easy method is to chop the leaves and freeze them in ice cube trays filled with water or olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. These herb cubes are perfect for tossing into teas, soups, or marinades. You can also freeze whole leaves by laying them flat on a baking sheet, freezing for a few hours, and then storing them in an airtight container. For best quality, use frozen lemon balm within six months.
Drying Lemon Balm
Drying lemon balm is another excellent way to preserve it. You can air-dry it by tying small bunches together and hanging them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated space. After a week or two, the leaves should be dry and brittle. At that point, crumble them and store in a tightly sealed glass jar away from heat and light. If you have a dehydrator, dry the leaves at a low temperature (around 95°F or 35°C) for one to three hours, checking often to avoid over-drying. Properly dried lemon balm retains much of its flavor and can be used in teas, tinctures, or herbal sachets for up to a year.
Final Thoughts
Whether you use it fresh, frozen, or dried, storing lemon balm the right way ensures that its soothing scent and healing properties are ready whenever you need them.
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