flipCarmelite Balm Water (Gentle Version)
Carmelite Balm Water (Gentle Version)
Why this dish? The Carmelites — the male branch of the order that Edith joined among the sisters — have prepared since 1611 a famous 'balm water' reputed to calm nerves and stomach ailments. In the dark years before her deportation, such an herbal infusion was the discreet comfort of convents. Presented here in a non-alcoholic version, inspired by this living tradition.
A fragrant infusion of fresh lemon balm, lemon zest, and mild spices, drunk hot to soothe a troubled mind. The monastery garden pharmacy in a cup.
The Carmelite friars, my brothers in the same Order, had kept for centuries the secret of a balm water that comforted the sick and calmed troubled spirits. When anxiety lurked — and believe me, in those years it lurked a great deal — an infusion of these garden herbs would restore a little clarity to a weary mind. I give you the gentle version, the one that can be offered even to children.
- •Fresh lemon balm — a good handful of leaves (master herb, soothing)
- •Lemon zest — from one fruit (tangy freshness)
- •Cinnamon, clove, nutmeg — a pinch each (warm spices)
- •Coriander seeds, angelica — a few (medicinal notes of Carmelite water)
- •Brandy (original version) — for maceration (traditional alcoholic base — omitted here)
Carmelite Balm Water (Gentle Version)
A fragrant infusion of fresh lemon balm, lemon zest, and mild spices, drunk hot to soothe a troubled mind. The monastery garden pharmacy in a cup.
Why this dish? The Carmelites — the male branch of the order that Edith joined among the sisters — have prepared since 1611 a famous 'balm water' reputed to calm nerves and stomach ailments. In the dark years before her deportation, such an herbal infusion was the discreet comfort of convents. Presented here in a non-alcoholic version, inspired by this living tradition.
The Carmelite friars, my brothers in the same Order, had kept for centuries the secret of a balm water that comforted the sick and calmed troubled spirits. When anxiety lurked — and believe me, in those years it lurked a great deal — an infusion of these garden herbs would restore a little clarity to a weary mind. I give you the gentle version, the one that can be offered even to children.
Ingredients (period version)
- Fresh lemon balm — a good handful of leaves (master herb, soothing)
- Lemon zest — from one fruit (tangy freshness)
- Cinnamon, clove, nutmeg — a pinch each (warm spices)
- Coriander seeds, angelica — a few (medicinal notes of Carmelite water)
- Brandy (original version) — for maceration (traditional alcoholic base — omitted here)
Ingredients
- Fresh lemon balm leaves — a large handful (or 2 tbsp dried) (soothing herb)
- Zest of one untreated lemon — in wide strips (citrus)
- Cinnamon stick — 1 small (mild spice)
- Cloves — 2 (warm fragrance)
- Grated nutmeg — 1 pinch (spicy roundness)
- Coriander seeds — 1/2 tsp, crushed (herbal citrus note)
- Honey — to taste (sweetness (optional))
- Water — 75 cl (infusion base)
Method
- Bring the water to a simmer, without boiling vigorously.
- Remove from heat, add the lemon balm, lemon zest, cinnamon, cloves, crushed coriander, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Cover and let steep for 8 to 10 minutes to release the aromas without excessive bitterness.
- Strain into a teapot, sweeten with a little honey if desired.
- Drink very hot, in small sips, in the evening or after a heavy meal.
How it was made : The 'Carmelite Balm Water' was created in 1611 by the Discalced Carmelites of the convent on Rue de Vaugirard in Paris: an alcohol-based preparation of lemon balm, citrus zest, and spices, sold as a remedy for dizziness, nausea, and nerves. It was originally a strongly alcoholic pharmaceutical preparation — the version proposed here is only an herbal tea inspiration, alcohol-free, suitable for all.
The contemporary twist : Chilled and topped with sparkling water and a lemon slice, this infusion becomes a refreshing lemon balm lemonade for summer.
Sources : Tradition of the Discalced Carmelites, Eau de mélisse des Carmes Boyer (Paris, 1611), product historical notice · European monastic pharmacopoeias, use of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) as a calming agent
Edith Stein · Charactorium
