MELISSA ESSENTIAL OIL (Oleum Melissae)
The origin of melissa essential oil:
Bulgarian melissa essential oil is produced from Melissa officinalis plant and it is often referred to as Lemon balm essential oil.
Melissa essential oil is derived from the leaves and stems of the Melissa plant. Melissa officinalis is herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Bulgaria and has a lemony fragrance, which is why it is often referred to as lemon balm.
BackShort summary description of the oil:
- Categories/Mainstream: Essential oils
- Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis
- Botanical Source: Melissa officinalis
- Extraction Method: steam distillation
- H.S code : Unknown information
- CAS number: 84082‐61‐1 ; Alternative CAS number: : 8014‐71‐9
- EC number: 282‐007‐0
- Scent: fresh, citrusy, herbaceous with a hint of sweetness
- Country of origin: Bulgaria
The origin of melissa essential oil
Melissa essential oil is derived from the leaves and stems of the Melissa plant. Melissa officinalis is herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Bulgaria and has a lemony fragrance, which is why it is often referred to as lemon balm.
Extraction method
The object of distillation is the above-ground part of the mother plant, with the essential oil deposited in glandular trichomes and labiate glands. Characteristic of this raw material is that it can be collected on two slopes during spring and autumn. The fresh raw material is distilled using steam, yielding a primary distillate, which is subjected to physical separation into essential oil and floral water. The floral water, as such, can be a final product or undergo distillation processes for extracting essential oil. The final product is packaged in aluminum containers that meet food packaging requirements.
Certification and characterisation:
- Produced according to ISO 9001:2015 and GMP of cosmetic regulations.
- Produced according to FSSC 22000 – food ingredient.
Properties
Health Benefits:
Melissa oil, also known as lemon balm oil, is renowned for its numerous health benefits. One of its key advantages lies in its potent antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress (Kennedy et al., 2004). Moreover, studies have shown that Melissa oil possesses significant antimicrobial properties, making it effective against various pathogens, including bacteria and viruses (Astani et al., 2012). Additionally, the oil contains compounds with anti-inflammatory effects, which may aid in alleviating symptoms of inflammatory conditions (Cernáková & Kostálová, 2002).
Skin Benefits:
In addition to its health benefits, Melissa oil offers various advantages for skincare. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it beneficial for combating acne, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall skin health (Zu et al., 2010). Furthermore, due to its calming properties, Melissa oil can soothe irritated skin, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin types (Malheiro et al., 2010). Moreover, the antioxidant content in Melissa oil provides protection against environmental stressors and UV radiation, thereby reducing the signs of premature aging (Hwang et al., 2020).
In conclusion, Melissa oil offers a wide range of health and skincare benefits, making it a valuable addition to both medicinal and cosmetic applications.
Main chemical constituents:
|
Geranialoffers various health benefits such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and antimicrobial properties. In skincare, geranial's antibacterial effects make it useful for treating acne, while its antifungal activity can aid in conditions like athlete's foot. Additionally, geranial may promote wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Overall, geranial shows promise in promoting well-being and maintaining healthy skin. |
Neraloffers diverse health and skincare benefits. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, making it effective against various skin conditions like acne and fungal infections, while also aiding in wound healing. Incorporating neral-rich essential oils into skincare routines can promote healthier skin naturally. |
Germacrene Dsesquiterpene found in various plant essential oils, has been associated with potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Studies suggest its role with applications in agriculture, food industries, and insect control, highlighting its diverse potential contributions to health and environmental applications. |
β-Caryophyllenebicyclic sesquiterpene acts as a dietary cannabinoid, binding to CB2 receptors, and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, pain relief through the activation of peripheral cannabinoid and opioid receptors also CB2 receptor agonist produces multiple behavioral changes relevant to anxiety and depression. |
Main properties and usage
- Aromatherapy: the aroma of melissa essential oil may help reduce stress and anxiety when used in aromatherapy or diffusers
- Spa and wellness: can be incorporate in massage oils, bath salts, and steam rooms to create a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere
- Oxidative stress: can help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage
- Emotional balance: thanks to the uplifting scent can improve mood and promote relaxation
- Skin care: due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties can be used for naturally treating eczema, acne and minor wounds
- Digestive support: it may aid in digestive issues, such as indigestion and bloating, when diluted and applied topically
- Cold sores: to help manage symptoms of cold sores (herpes simplex virus) due to its potential antiviral properties
- Anti-diabetic effects: an efficient hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic agent
- Menstrual comfort: it may help alleviate menstrual discomfort and cramps
- Respiratory health: can clear the airways and support respiratory health
- Headache relief: a relief from headaches by inhaling or applying it topically to the temples and forehead
- Fragrance industry: can be used in perfumes, colognes, or scented candles
- Herbal remedies: can be used for its potential anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties to treat cold sores, fever blisters, or digestive issues
- Food and beverages: can be used sparingly to flavor desserts, beverages and dishes
- Natural cleaner: can be added to natural cleaning solutions for its antibacterial properties
- Yoga and meditation: to enhance the calming and focus-inducing atmosphere during sessions
- Sleep aid: can help promote better sleep and relaxation
- Immune support: reducing inflammation can support overall health, including immune function
- Allergies: thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties
Physicochemical characteristics
| Indicators: | Characteristics and norms: " |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, yellow liquid |
| Color | Pale Yellow to yellow-green |
| Odor | Specific of Melissa |
| Relative density, kg/dm3 | 0,870 ÷ 0,906 |
| Refraction index | 1,4600 ÷ 1,4900 |
| Optical rotation | -30,08° ÷ + 2,0° |
| Peroxide number | 4,0 – 7,5 |
| Microbiology tests (cfu/ ml): | Max 3,0 |
| Ester number | 27,0 – 220 |
| Name of components - GC – MS/ FID: | Norm,%: |
|---|---|
| 1-Оcten-3-ol | |
| 6-Methyl-5-heptene-2-one | |
| β-Myrcene | |
| Limonene | |
| CIS β-Ocimene | |
| TRANS β-Ocimene | |
| Linalool | |
| Citronellal | |
| Citronellool | |
| Neral | |
| Geranial | |
| β -Caryophyllen | |
| Germacrene D | |
| Caryophyllene oxide |