How to Make Lemon Balm Lemonade: The Perfect Summer Drink for Slowing Down

With the summer heat and the state of the world, sometimes we need to cool off and put the phone down and just step outside into some sunshine for a moment. Now, if you live in the south like me-- going outside can be considered exercise just by going out the door. The heat will get you for sure. If you want to slow down, enjoy the summer, and get rid of bugs all at once, the answer you're looking for is Lemon Balm Lemonade. Not only is it a cool refreshing twist on a summer classic drink, but it's also good for your brain. 

WHAT IS LEMON BALM?

Lemon Balm is a sibling in the mint family, but it has a lemony smell and taste. When dried, it smells like black tea and citrus together (well, in my opinion, it does).

The benefits of Lemon Balm are calming the mind, helping digestion, and just giving a bright zing to whatever you add it to. Those that struggle with ADHD might benefit from this herb altogether. Historically, it is considered the herb of immortality as well. Daily drinkers of this herb tend to live longer. People have also added lemon balm into their natural pesticide regimen or into their bug spray, as it contains citronellal, a close chemical to citronella.

It's easy to grow. Sow in the spring. It will grow, given the right conditions, all summer long. It likes full sun or partial shade. The soil has to be well draining, and companion planting will help it thrive. You can grow the herb from starter pods or start from seed, but remember that this plant will be going into your food or drink. It's better to find a nursery that doesn't use pesticides. Remember that since it is in the mint family, it can be invasive and spread like wildfire if not properly maintained.

If you cannot grow lemon balm, you can often find it from local sources, gardening centers, friends, farmers, or dried herbal teas online. Fresh is often best to harvest its healing benefits, but dried will work in a pinch as well!

BEST TIME TO SERVE 

This concoction is perfect for picnics, kicking off the summer vibes, having a cool drink after yard work, in the morning to set a calm tone for the day, before dinner to aid in ramping up digestion, or any time you need stress relief or extra sunshine in your life.

Make lemon balm lemonade at the beginning of summer, take out a journal, and sip your drink. Think about what it is that you want for the season. It could be flourishing crops, more travel, getting to experience an aesthetic summer, more fun with kids before school returns, etc. The possibilities are endless. Write your intentions out and meditate in the sunshine as you finish your glass.

Here is the recipe:

Lemon Balm Lemonade

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1 pitcher full

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup of Fresh Lemon Balm Leaves (or 1/4 Cup dried)

• 1 Cup of Fresh Squeezed Lemon Joice (4-6 Lemons)

• 1/2 to 1/4 Cup of Honey, Agave, or Simple Syrup

• 5-6 Cups of Water

• Optional: Lemon Slices, Extra Lemon Balm for Garnish, or Lavender Buds

Instructions:

1. Make a Lemon Balm Infusion
   In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once boiled, turn it off and add Lemon Balm leaves and cover. Steep the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and discard the herbs (or compost them)
   
   
2. Juice the Lemons
   While the lemon balm steeps, juice your lemons until you have 1 cup of liquid. Remove the seeds, leave the pulp if you prefer it
   
   
3. Sweeten the Infusion
   While the lemon balm mixture is still warm, you can add your sweetener to dissolve it. Stir to make sure it is fully in cooperated.
   
   
4. Mix it Altogether
   In large pitcher, combine lemon juice, lemon balm infusion, and remaining cold water. Stir well, adjust sweetness.
   
   
5. Chill & Serve
   Refrigerate at least for 30 minutes. Serve over ice with fresh lemon slices or garnishes of choice.