Learn how to make refreshing lemon balm tea using dried lemon balm leaves. This naturally caffeine-free herbal tea is easy to prepare, delicious served over ice, and perfect for warm summer days.
There’s something satisfying about opening the refrigerator on a hot afternoon and finding a pitcher of homemade herbal tea waiting for you.
Lemon balm tea has been enjoyed for centuries for its bright, citrus-like aroma and refreshing flavor. Made from the leaves of Melissa officinalis, this caffeine-free herbal tea is incredibly easy to brew and can be enjoyed either hot or cold. During the summer months, it's especially popular served over ice with fresh fruit and herbs.
If you're looking for a simple way to stay refreshed while enjoying traditional botanicals, lemon balm tea is a great place to start.
What Is Lemon Balm?
Despite its name, lemon balm isn't made from lemons. It's a fragrant member of the mint family with soft green leaves that naturally produce a fresh, lemony aroma.
For generations, lemon balm has been grown in home gardens and herbal collections throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. Today, it's one of the most popular herbs for homemade herbal tea because of its pleasant flavor and versatility.
What Does Lemon Balm Tea Taste Like?
Lemon balm has a light, refreshing taste with gentle citrus notes and a subtle hint of mint.
Unlike lemonade, it isn't tart or acidic. Instead, it has a clean, smooth flavor that's easy to enjoy on its own or blended with other herbs.
Its mild profile also makes it a great introduction to herbal teas for beginners.
How to Make Lemon Balm Tea
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried lemon balm leaves
- 2 cups filtered water
- Honey (optional)
- Lemon slices (optional)
Directions
- Bring fresh filtered water to a boil.
- Remove the water from the heat and let it cool for about one minute.
- Add the dried lemon balm to a teapot or tea infuser.
- Pour the hot water over the leaves.
- Cover and steep for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Strain the leaves and enjoy.
The tea can be enjoyed immediately while warm or cooled for later use.
Make a Pitcher for the Week
One of the easiest ways to enjoy lemon balm tea is by preparing a larger batch.
Simply multiply the recipe to fill a pitcher, allow the tea to cool, and refrigerate it. Having homemade herbal tea ready to pour makes it easy to stay refreshed throughout the week.
Serve over ice with fresh lemon slices, cucumber, or sprigs of mint for a bright summer drink.
Delicious Flavor Pairings
Lemon balm blends beautifully with many herbs and dried fruits.
Lemon Balm + Peppermint
A refreshing combination with crisp herbal notes that's ideal for warm weather.
Lemon Balm + Chamomile
A smooth floral blend with a gentle aroma.
Lemon Balm + Hibiscus
The citrus notes of lemon balm balance the bold, tangy flavor of hibiscus while creating a vibrant iced tea.
Lemon Balm + Rose Petals
A delicate floral blend that's both beautiful and refreshing.
Lemon Balm + Dried Orange Peel
Adds a naturally sweet citrus aroma and enhances the tea's bright character.
Tips for the Best Cup
Use freshly boiled, filtered water for the cleanest flavor.
Keep the teapot covered while steeping to help retain the herb's natural aroma.
Store dried lemon balm in an airtight container away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight to preserve its freshness.
If serving iced, chill the tea before adding ice to help maintain its full flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lemon balm tea naturally caffeine-free?
Yes. Lemon balm is an herb and does not contain caffeine.
Can I drink lemon balm tea cold?
Absolutely. It's one of the most refreshing herbal teas for spring and summer and is excellent served over ice.
Can I mix lemon balm with other herbs?
Yes. Lemon balm pairs well with peppermint, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, rose petals, lemon peel, and many other botanicals.
Can I add fruit?
Fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cucumber, and citrus slices all make excellent additions to chilled lemon balm tea.
Discover Premium Lemon Balm at LA Herb
At LA Herb, we offer high-quality dried lemon balm along with a wide selection of flowers, leaves, roots, berries, mushrooms, and traditional botanicals for creating homemade herbal teas.
Whether you're brewing a single cup or keeping a pitcher chilled in your refrigerator all summer long, quality herbs make every cup more enjoyable.
Explore our collection and discover new ways to enjoy herbal tea throughout the seasons.