BALM, Melissa offleinalis, an erect, branching, perennial, herbaceous plant of the natural order labiate, a native of the s. of Europe, naturalized in a few places in England. It has ovate crenate leaves, and axillary half-whorls of white flowers on one side of the stem. The whole plant has an agreeable lemon-like smell, on account of which it is frequently cultivated in gardens. The stems and leaves are used in medi cine as a gentle aromatic, stimulant, and tonic. B. is also employed for making an agreea ble and somewhat exhilarating beverage called B. wine. 13. was formerly in much higher repute than now for its medicinal virtues. Its qualities depend on an essential oil of a pale yellow color called oil of balm.
For medicinal use, the herb should be cut before the appearance of the flowers, which begin to expand in July. It is nearly inodorous when dried. The taste is somewhat austere and slightly aromatic. 13. scarcely produces any remedial operation upon the system. The quantity of oil which it contains is not more than sufficient to communi
cate a pleasant flavor to the infusion, which forms an excellent drink in febrile com plaints, and when taken warm tends to promote the operation of diaphoretic medicines. —A variety of the common cat-mint (nepetct cataria) with a smell like that of B. is often mistaken for it.--31oLnAvrAN B. .(dracocephalum Afoldaricum) is a native of the country from which it derives its name and of Siberia, etc.; an annual plant having, when fresh, a smell like that of 13., but less pleasant. It is much used in Germany for flavoring dishes.—BASTARD 13. (nzelittis melissophyllum), a native of the s. of England and of many parts of Europe, is a very beautiful plant which when dried has a delightful fragrance and retains it long. All these are of the natural order labiatce.