Freesia refracta vs Lemon Balm Toronjil

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Freesia refracta

Nervine

Lemon Balm Toronjil

Melissa officinalis (tropical)

Nervine

⚠️ Pregnancy & Nursing Warnings

Freesia refracta

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Lemon Balm Toronjil

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

South African ornamental; essential oil used in aromatherapy for stress and respiratory support.

Tropical variety of lemon balm naturalized in Latin America and used in Mexican and Caribbean folk medicine for anxiety, digestive complaints, and fever.

Active Compounds

linalool, geraniol, flavonoids, essential oils

rosmarinic acid, citral, geraniol, luteolin, apigenin

Traditional Uses

stress relief, aromatherapy, respiratory support

Anxiety, Digestive complaints, Fever, Heart palpitations

Modern Uses

aromatherapy, stress reduction

Anxiolytic activity, Antispasmodic effects, Antiviral properties, Sedative action

Adult Dosage

Aromatherapy: 3-5 drops diffused

Herb tea: 2-3 cups daily; 1-2ml tincture 3x daily

Contraindications

allergy to fragrances

Hypothyroidism high doses, Sedative medications additive

Side Effects

skin sensitization with undiluted oil

Drowsiness, Mild GI effects, Thyroid effects with very high doses

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E

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