Yes, lemon balm is generally considered safe for children, but with some important considerations. Multiple sources indicate its effectiveness and good tolerability in children, even at young ages. However, responsible use and potential cautions are important.
Safe Use in Children:
- Positive Studies: Research suggests that lemon balm, sometimes in combination with valerian root, effectively treats restlessness and sleep problems in children, with excellent tolerability. [1, 4, 5, 6]
- Calming Properties: Lemon balm is known for its calming effects, potentially helpful for children experiencing anxiety or restlessness. [3, 7, 9, 10]
- Generally Safe: Several sources explicitly state that lemon balm is possibly safe for children when taken orally for up to a month. [2, 7]
Important Considerations:
- Dosage and Age: Always consult a pediatrician before giving lemon balm to children, especially infants and young children. Appropriate dosage depends on the child's age and weight. [2, 8, 10]
- Interactions: Lemon balm may interact with certain medications. Discuss potential interactions with your child's doctor if they are taking other medications. [2]
- Topical Use: Lemon balm may be used topically to treat cold sores in children, but always consult your doctor for appropriate dosage. [8]
Lemon Balm as a Pediatric-Friendly Herb:
One naturopathic doctor even calls lemon balm a “must-have” for kids, highlighting its pleasant lemony flavor. [2] Its calming and potentially helpful properties make it a potentially useful addition to a child's wellness routine, but always under professional guidance.
References:
[1] Teas for Toddlers: Which Are Safe, Helpful for Coughs, and More. Healthline. Dec 11, 2019.
[2] LEMON BALM: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions ... WebMD.
[3] Lemon Balm for Kids: What You Need to Know – Nature's Craft. shopnaturescraft.com
[4] Hyperactivity, concentration difficulties and impulsiveness improve ... PubMed.
[5] Kids Lemon Balm Calm™ Liquid Herbal Extract | Herb Pharm. herb-pharm.com
[6] Valerian Root and Lemon Balm Improve Attention, Hyperactivity ... Thrive Global. Oct 19, 2016.
[7] Lemon Balm Is Not Toxic To Humans. greg.app. Jun 15, 2024.
[8] Lemon balm Information | Mount Sinai - New York. mountsinai.org
[9] Lemon Balm. salisburypediatrics.com. Oct 24, 2016.
[10] Lemon Balm Herb - A must have in your Medicine Cabinet. naturopathicpediatrics.com. Sep 13, 2017.
