Current Scientific Insights on the Antioxidant Effects of Melissa officinalis Extracts

Abstract

Melissa officinalis L. commonly known as Lemon balm, is a popular medicinal plant from Lamiaceae family, valued for its therapeutic properties since antiquity. This study aims to evaluate the current scientific literature status on antioxidant effect of Melissa extracts, highlighting geographical research trends, publication patterns, and article accessibility. Using the Web of Science (WoS) database, 283 articles published between 2015 and 2024 were initially identified. After screening and filtering, 165 eligible studies were analysed, with the majority published in recent years and originating from Iran, Turkey, Romania, and Poland. The findings underline the increasing interest in Melissa officinalis, with open-access research predominating, in agriculture, biochemistry, medicine, and food science. This review underscores the need for continued exploration to expand understanding of Melissa's antioxidant potential