Lemon balm extract (Melissa)

Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis L. of the Lamiaceae, is extracted from the dried leaf, known pharmacopoeially as Melissae folium. The marker constituent is rosmarinic acid (CAS 20283-92-5, C18H16O8, molecular weight 360.31), an ester of caffeic acid and 3,4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid that is characteristic of the Nepetoideae subfamily. The European Pharmacopoeia requires not less than 1.0% rosmarinic acid in the dried leaf and not less than 2.0% in Melissa leaf dry extract, determined by HPLC since the method changed from the earlier photometric total-hydroxycinnamic determination. Our standard commercial grade at not less than 5.0% rosmarinic acid therefore sits comfortably above the monograph floor, with 2% and 7% grades also available. The single most common source of confusion in quoting this ingredient is the assay basis, and it is worth fixing in the specification before samples move. Two numbers circulate: rosmarinic acid by HPLC, and total hydroxycinnamic derivatives expressed as rosmarinic acid by UV/VIS. The second reads several times higher on the very same lot, which is how a 15% figure and a 5% figure can describe identical material. Always require the CoA to state the method, and compare like with like. Extraction solvent matters too, since a water extract and an ethanol–water extract differ in their phenolic profile at the same declared assay. Finally, keep this powder distinct from Melissa essential oil, which is produced at very low yield, is one of the most frequently adulterated oils in the trade (typically with citronella or lemongrass) and classifies under a different tariff heading entirely. The powder is brown to dark brown, fine and noticeably hygroscopic, with a faint lemon-herbaceous aroma. Dispense and blend under controlled humidity, keep drums closed between uses, and consider a foil laminate with desiccant for tropical destinations. It works in evening sachets, instant tea premixes, capsules and tablets, gummy slurries, nootropic stacks, flavoured functional waters and cosmetic toner bases. Leaf material is sourced from contracted cultivation, and certified organic, Kosher and Halal versions are available to order.