News
Refreshing Lemon Balm Lemonade | Click & Grow
We’re big fans of lemon balm, here at Click & Grow. It’s such a versatile herb. You can use it in cakes, whip it into pesto, or even steep it in tea. Did you know it also holds a special place in Greek culture? In ancient times, lemon balm was believed to have a close connection to bees. It was believed that bees never left their hive if lemon balm was growing nearby.
Much later in Medieval times, lemon balm was known as a herb to represent sympathy. Avicenna, an ancient physician from the 11th Century claimed that lemon balm ‘causeth the mind and heart to become merry.’ These days, it’s easy to see why. Lemon balm’s gentle, lemon-mint flavour goes well with honey and is even used as a medicine in several cultures. It’s a rich, natural source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Research even suggests that lemon balm can boost brain power. A 2014 study looking at the effects of lemon balm on cognitive function produced some interesting findings. Participants took part in computerised, cognitive tasks that involved maths, concentration and memory. The results indicate that participants who ingested lemon balm performed better than those who didn’t. Further research suggests that lemon balm can improve memory performance and increase feelings of tranquility. During the colder months, lemon balm tea is often used to ease insomnia and anxiety.
How to Make Refreshing Lemon Balm - Meadowsweet Lemonade
Ready to use your freshly harvested Click & Grow Lemon Balm? If so, we’ve got a fun recipe that was written and photographed by our designer, Marju Potter. It’s a creative way to mix and match delicate wildflowers with lemon balm, one of the most universal herbs around. Get ready to meet your new favourite summer beverage!
Ingredients
Bunch of fresh lemon balm leaves
Homemade meadowsweet syrup (you can use any other flower syrup)
Sparkling water
Half a lime
Some ice
Directions
1. Add a bunch of fresh lemon balm leaves and sectors of lime to the glass.
2. Muddle the leaves with lime to bring out the aromatics and flavours.
3. Fill the glass with ice.
4. Add some syrup to give the drink some delicate taste and sweetness.
5. Fill the glass with sparkling water.
6. Give it a little stir and enjoy right away!
Have fun with this recipe and let us know how it goes for you! Share your pics in our Facebook community, or use the hashtag #clickandgrow.
For more food inspiration, be sure to follow Marju on instagram.
Need help choosing a Smart Garden? Read our ultimate guide here.
