Lemon Balm for Weight Loss: A Calm and Healthy Boost

lemon balm for weight loss

Looking for a lemon balm recipe to help with weight loss? This gentle herb from the mint family packs a punch when it comes to shedding those extra pounds. Lemon balm is famous for its ability to reduce stress, which can often lead to emotional eating and those pesky unhealthy cravings. Plus, it’s fantastic for promoting healthy digestion. It helps ease bloating without interfering with your goal of maintaining a balanced diet, all while boosting nutrient absorption.

Lemon balm is packed with antioxidants that help rev up your metabolism by reducing oxidative stress, making it easier for your body to digest food. With its gentle lemony flavor, you can enjoy lemon balm in tea, smoothies, or as a soothing herbal infusion. When it comes to natural weight management, it’s definitely one of the top contenders!

This wonderful herb encourages people to enhance their physical health, stay grounded, and view wellness as a long-term journey. Whether you’re just starting your weight loss adventure or looking to maintain your progress, lemon balm is a straightforward, healthy choice that aligns beautifully with sustainable, holistic wellness.

Wait, Lemon Balm Helps With Weight Loss? Here’s the Tea

Lemon Balm for weight loss? At first, I was skeptical about how much an herb could really impact my life. But after diving into some research and trying things out for myself, here’s what I discovered: 

1. Stress Relief = Fewer Cravings

When stress levels rise, so do cortisol levels, which can lead to some serious cravings—especially for those tempting carbs and sugary treats. I found that lemon balm has these calming properties that really help break that cycle. Swapping my late-night stress snacks for a cozy cup of lemon balm tea made a world of difference.

2. A Happy Gut is a Happy You

Feeling bloated, sluggish, or just plain uncomfortable can make healthy eating feel like a chore. Lemon balm works wonders for soothing digestion, easing bloating, and making it so much easier to stick to those nutritious choices.

3. A Gentle Metabolism Boost

Now, I’m not saying it’s a miracle fat burner, but some studies hint that lemon balm can support thyroid health, which is key for regulating metabolism. It’s not about magic; it’s more like a gentle push in the right direction.

And as a bonus, it tastes like a little sunshine in a cup. What’s not to love?

Also Read: High Cholesterol Foods You Should Avoid

Lemon Balm Recipes I Actually Make Weekly

Best Lemon Balm Recipes for Weight Loss

1. Lemon Balm Tea

lemon balm for weight loss

Credit: Grok

Looking to shed some pounds? Try this refreshing Lemon Balm Tea for Weight Loss!

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 tbsp dried lemon balm leaves (or 1 cup fresh leaves) → Helps rev up your metabolism
  • 2 cups of water → Keeps you hydrated and feeling great
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice → Aids in fat burning
  • 1 tablespoon of honey or stevia for sweetness (optional) → A natural touch of sweetness
  • Mint leaves or lemon slices for garnishing (optional) → Adds a burst of freshness

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the leaves: If you’re using fresh lemon balm, give them a good rinse with cool water and dry them off to remove any excess moisture.
  1. Boil Water: Grab a small pot, pour in 2 cups of water, and bring it to a gentle boil.
  1. Brew the Tea: Once the water is boiling, take it off the heat, toss in the lemon balm leaves, cover it up, and let it steep for about 5-10 minutes.
  1. Add Lemon and Sweetener: For an extra flavor kick, add some fresh lemon slices, and if you like it sweet, mix in some honey or stevia.
  1. Strain and Enjoy: Pour the lemon balm tea into cups, sip it slowly, and let it help curb your cravings and aid digestion.

Important Tips:

  • If you want a bolder flavor, let the lemon balm leaves steep a bit longer.
  • Keep your dried lemon balm in an airtight container, away from sunlight, to preserve its lovely aroma and taste.
  • Store fresh lemon balm in the fridge, and it should last about a week.

2. Lemon Balm Infused Water

lemon balm for weight loss

Credit: Grok

If you’re looking for something more refreshing and hydrating than tea, try lemon balm-infused water:

Ingredients:

  • A handful of fresh lemon balm leaves or 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves
  • 1 liter of water
  • Cucumber or lemon slices (optional)
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Add Leaves: Toss the lemon balm leaves into a large bottle.
  2. Pour Water: Fill it up with water and give it a good stir to release those lovely flavors.
  3. Let it Infuse: Pop it in the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes to an hour to infuse.
  4. Add cucumber or lemon slices & ice cubes: For an extra refreshing kick, add some lemon and cucumber slices along with ice cubes to enjoy a cool lemon balm drink.

Best Time to Drink: Sip on it throughout the day as a refreshing and hydrating alternative to sugary drinks

3. Lemon Balm & Green Tea Infusion

lemon balm for weight loss

Credit: Grok

This delightful mix combines the antioxidant benefits of green tea with the calming and digestive properties of lemon balm. The catechins in green tea can help boost your metabolism and fat oxidation. When you blend green tea with lemon balm, you’re enhancing both metabolism and fat burning.

How to Make:

  • Brew 1 tablespoon of lemon balm tea along with 1 teaspoon of green tea for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Let it cool a bit, then strain it.
  • For a little extra flavor, squeeze in some lemon and mix in honey or stevia (optional).
  • Enjoy it hot or chilled with ice cubes.
  • This drink is perfect for the morning or just before a workout to give your metabolism a nice boost.

4. Lemon Balm & Ginger Lemonade

Lemon Balm & Ginger Lemonade

Credit: Grok

This drink is the ultimate refresher for those scorching summer days, and it can help you shed some pounds too! The thermogenic properties of ginger work wonders in burning calories, while lemon balm is great for your digestion.

How to Make:

  • Start by brewing 1 tablespoon of lemon balm tea in 1 cup of water for about 10 minutes, then let it cool down.
  • Next, mix in ½ teaspoon of freshly grated ginger.
  • If you like, squeeze in ½ teaspoon of lemon juice for a zesty kick (optional).
  • For sweetness, feel free to add stevia or honey (optional).
  • To amp up the freshness, toss in some fresh mint leaves or ice cubes.
  • Sip on this throughout the day as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks.

5. Lemon Balm & Apple Cider Vinegar Detox Drink

Lemon Balm & Apple Cider Vinegar Detox Drink

Credit: Grok

Apple cider vinegar is fantastic for digestion, helps with fat loss, and keeps your blood sugar levels in check. When you pair it with lemon balm, you get a detox drink that feels almost magical.

How to Make:

  • Boil 1 tablespoon of lemon balm leaves in some water, then let it cool.
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon of raw, organic apple cider vinegar.
  • For an extra touch, you can add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to help with blood sugar control (optional) and enjoy!
  • Drink this before meals to curb cravings and boost your digestion.

Also Read: Maintain And Enjoy Healthy Eating

Tips I Have Learned the Hard Way

Grow Your Own: This plant is practically foolproof! I’ve got a pot sitting on my windowsill, and it just flourishes with hardly any effort from me.

Don’t Overthink It: Toss it into salads, soups, or even cocktails. It blends beautifully with a variety of flavors.

Pair It with Movement: I’ve made it a habit to take a stroll after enjoying my tea—it’s turned into a little ritual that really helps me feel centered.

Is It Okay to Drink Lemon Balm Tea Every Day?

For most folks, absolutely! It’s gentle, non-toxic, and won’t give you the jitters like caffeine can.

That said, here are a few things to keep in mind:

When to be cautious: 

In some exceptions: 

  • Thyroid Conditions: Lemon balm might mess with thyroid function, so if you’re on thyroid meds, it’s best to check in with your doctor first.
  • Drowsiness: It’s quite calming, so if you mix it with sedatives, you might find yourself feeling extra sleepy.
  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: If you’re expecting or nursing, definitely consult your doctor.
  • Allergic Reactions: They’re rare, but always listen to your body.

Benefits of Drinking it Daily

benefits of drinking it daily

If you’re all set to enjoy lemon balm on a regular basis, here’s what you could gain by incorporating it into your daily routine:

  • Reduced Stress & Anxiety: Lemon balm has a natural ability to soothe the nervous system, making it easier for you to navigate through daily chaos.
  • Better Digestion: It helps ease bloating and indigestion, turning your meals into a more pleasant experience.
  • Steadier Energy Levels: By reducing stress hormones like cortisol, it helps prevent those pesky energy crashes that can leave you feeling drained.
  • Craving Control: Opting for a cup of tea instead of reaching for snacks encourages more mindful eating habits.
  • Improved Sleep: With its calming effects on both the mind and body, lemon balm can promote restful sleep, which is essential for overall health.

How Much Fresh Lemon Balm Per Day Can You Drink?

1-3 cups a day is just right. Going overboard might lead to mild nausea or drowsiness for some people.

When Lemon Balm Doesn’t work?

I really enjoy this herb, but let’s be real—it’s not a magic solution for everything. Here are some situations where you might need to rethink your approach:

  • If Stress is Overwhelming: Lemon balm can help with mild anxiety, but if you’re feeling completely swamped by stress, it’s a good idea to combine it with therapy, meditation, or some other form of self-care.
  • If Your Diet is All Junk Food: No herb can make up for a bad diet. Lemon balm shines when it’s paired with whole, nutrient-rich foods.
  • If You Expect Instant Results: It took me about three months to see any changes. This isn’t a quick fix; it’s all about finding long-term balance.

The Oops moments: My Lemon Balm Fails

Let’s be honest—I’ve had my fair share of lemon balm blunders.

  • The Smoothie Overload: There was that one time I dumped a whole cup of lemon balm into my smoothie. Let me tell you, it tasted like I was sipping on grass clippings. Trust me, stick to half a cup!
  • The Neglected Plant: I completely forgot about my lemon balm for a month, and when I finally checked on it, it had turned into a mini jungle. The takeaway? This herb is tougher than it looks!
  • The Detox Misconception: I thought I could use lemon balm for a cleanse, but I eventually figured out that the best way to enjoy it is simply by incorporating it into my daily routine in a balanced way.

What Can I Mix Lemon With to Lose Weight?

Looking to mix lemon balm for weight loss? You’re in luck because it pairs beautifully with a few other ingredients! Here are some great combinations to try:

  • Turmeric: This anti-inflammatory powerhouse not only calms but also makes for a fantastic upgrade to your golden milk.
  • Peppermint: A wonderful choice for digestion, peppermint can really soothe your stomach—especially after a big meal!
  • Lemon: Adding lemon not only boosts detox benefits but also brightens up the flavor, making everything taste even better!

Pro Tips for Daily Use

  • Mix It Up: Combine lemon balm with other gentle herbs like chamomile or peppermint for a delightful twist.
  • Listen to Your Body: If you notice any unusual side effects, take a break and see how you feel afterward.
  • Go Organic: Opt for organic lemon balm to steer clear of pesticides.
  • Start Small: Begin with one cup a day and gradually increase if you feel the need.
  • Use Fresh When Possible: Fresh leaves offer a brighter flavor, but dried lemon balm is a great alternative too!

Lemon Balm For Weight Loss: A Natural Remedy

Lemon balm isn’t just about cutting things out or chasing after quick solutions—it’s really about enriching your daily routine with something good for you. When you combine it with a balanced diet and some physical activity, even a little change can make a big difference. Just be patient, keep at it, and watch it work wonders alongside your own efforts.

Have you given lemon balm a shot? I’d love to hear how it plays a role in your wellness journey!

Author

  • Lena is the dedicated author behind WeightLossDietWatch.com. She shares expert tips, healthy recipes, and motivational insights to help readers achieve their weight loss and wellness goals.

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