Imogen Maria Mathews

Dr. Imogen Maria Mathews


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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18 October 2024 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
IMImogen Maria Mathews
Imogen Maria Mathews
JEJessica Eastwood
Jessica Eastwood
Daniel LamportDaniel Lamport
Daniel Lamport
RCRomain Le Cozannet
Romain Le Cozannet
PFPascale Fanca-Berthon
Pascale Fanca-Berthon
CWClaire Williams
Claire Williams
Background: There is renewed interest in the use of ancient herbal remedies for their potential health benefits, particularly in the psychological domain. One herb that is receiving growing attention is lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) which has received considerable interest for its influence on the brain. Lemon balm boasts an array of phytochemicals, including rosmarinic acid, citral, oleanolic acid, and ursolic acid, which are believed to underpin these effects on psychological well-being. Pharmacological evidence from animal and cellular work reveals that lemon balm and its components may modulate several brain signalling pathways, including GABAergic, cholinergic, and serotonergic systems. Results/Conclusions: Although further robust randomised controlled trials using lemon balm are required, existing research indicates that lemon balm holds promise as a calming agent exhibiting both anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties and can elicit cognitive and sleep-quality enhancement.