Bastard Balm
Melittis melissophyllum
Melittis melissophyllum, commonly known as bee balm or mint thyme, is a plant traditionally associated with European herbal medicine. While its use in traditional practices has not been extensively documented, it has been studied for its chemical composition and potential applications. Scientific evidence indicates that the storage of Melittis melissophyllum over 18 months can lead to changes in free sugars, organic acids, and tocopherol levels, though gamma radiation did not significantly impact these changes. The content of various phytochemicals, including harpagide and 8-O-acetyl-harpagide, varied based on plant age and season, with supplementation potentially enhancing their accumulation. Additionally, the study found that full sunlight increased flavonoid and phenolic acid content, while coumarin levels were higher in shaded plants. Safety concerns for Melittis melissophyllum are currently unreported, indicating no major issues have been identified. There is also a lack of recorded drug interactions, suggesting it may be safe to use alongside other medications without significant risk.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Gamma radiation did not effectively prevent the decrease in free sugars, organic acids, and tocopherols in Melittis melissophyllum over 18 months of storage.
- The content of various phytochemicals in Melittis melissophyllum varied by plant age and season.
- The study found that supplementing the culture medium with specific chemicals increased the accumulation of harpagide and 8-O-acetyl-harpagide in Melittis melissophyllum shoot cultures.
- The content of flavonoids and phenolic acids was highest in Melittis melissophyllum plants grown under full sunlight, while coumarin content increased in shaded plants.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bastard Balm?
Bastard Balm (Melittis melissophyllum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Bastard Balm?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bastard Balm; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Gamma radiation did not effectively prevent the decrease in free sugars, organic acids, and tocopherols in Melittis melissophyllum over 18 months of storage.
How strong is the evidence for Bastard Balm?
The strongest finding for Bastard Balm carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bastard Balm safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bastard Balm in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bastard Balm interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bastard Balm in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bastard Balm?
Bastard Balm is also known as: Кадило (растение), Mélitte à feuilles de mélisse.
Is Bastard Balm a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Evaluation of gamma-irradiated aromatic herbs: Chemometric study of samples submitted to extended storage periods. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Enhanced accumulation of harpagide and 8-O-acetyl-harpagide in Melittis melissophyllum L. agitated shoot cultures analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effect of Shading on Development, Yield and Quality of Bastard Balm Herb (Melittis melissophyllum L.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chemical Diversity of Bastard Balm (Melittis melisophyllum L.) as Affected by Plant Development. literature abstract metadata