Parts Most Frequently Used: Fresh and Dried Flower, Leaf

Flavors/Temps: Aromatic, Warming

Caution: Caution if pregnant as the plant can stimulate uterine contractions.

Key Constituents: Thymol (aka isopropyl methyl phenol or IPMP), Carvacrol, rosemarinic acid, Linalool, D-limonene, Hydrothymoquinone

History/Folklore: The species native to North America, Monarda punctata, is a wonderful source of thymol. The related American plant M. didyma, the Scarlet Monarda, is also said to contain thymol but in smaller amounts of a slightly different composition. Thymol is known for its antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

Native American peoples have used the plant for thousands of years. The first written account is the description in 1596 by Nicholas Monardes, who gave the plant its botanical name, “Mondara”.

Native Americans used bergamot for its strong antiseptic action and to treat skin infections and minor wounds. They recognized four varieties of the plant, each having their unique scent. The plant was used in ceremonial sweat lodges for its scent and active diaphoretic properties.

Native Americans also used the plant to treat heart disease, colics, and colds, as a decongestant, to stimulate the appetite, and to regulate menses. They also used it to treat a wide variety of stomach disorders including flatulence.

An herbal tea made from the leaves treats mouth and throat infections caused by dental issues such as gingivitis. Bergamot is a natural source of the antiseptic thymol, the active ingredient in modern commercial mouthwash formulas.

Steam inhalation of the plant is used to treat sore throats, and bronchial infections with inflammation of the mucus membranes and increased flow of mucus.

Used externally in poultices it is used to treat skin eruptions, infections, and minor wounds, an English medical study, even indicates that the constituent thymol, present in bergamot (bee balm) may be more effective than prescription creams for treating acne. It is a good remedy for burns and inflammations. The lemon-scented oil is used to scent soaps.

The leaves and flowers are edible and are gathered when in bloom. They have a strong citrus flavor and make a wonderful addition to salads, custards, salsa, and meat dishes. The leaves are used in fruit drinks and the flowers in salads. The fresh leaves flavor wine, jellies, and fruit dishes.

The lovely scent of the flower, leaves, and roots make it a wonderful choice for inclusion in potpourri as an addition to a hot bath to revitalize your spirit and perfume your water.

The name “bergamot” derives from the scent of the plant’s flower, leaves, and roots that resemble Bergamot Orange, the source of bergamot oil used to flavor Earl Grey tea. The common name “bee balm” derives from the bee’s love of the sweet-smelling blossoms.

In America, the herb is also known as “Oswego Tea.” “Oswego” is an Iroquoian word meaning “pouring-out place” The Iroquois used the tea to increase stamina. It grew in popularity as a common beverage enjoyed by colonists in many parts of the United States. Oswego tea was used to replace English tea after the Boston Tea Party when colonists dumped the English tea into the harbor to protest high taxes.  This laid the groundwork for the American War of Independence from the British.

A tasty tea blend is made with 3 tablespoons chamomile flowers (link), 1 tablespoon bergamot (bee balm leaves), 2 tablespoons rosemary, and 1 tablespoon mint leaves. Mix herbs. Use 2 tablespoons per cup of tea. The red-flowered bee balm leaves are best for making teas and beverages, while other varieties contain carvacrol, which tastes like oregano, making them better for making pesto.

The species is a favorite for gardens because of its aromatic and showy scarlet flowers and pale green tinged with red aromatic leaves. It is a good companion plant that attracts bees and other pollinating insects. Many gardeners like to grow it near their tomato plants.

Bergamot/bee balm symbolizes wisdom, virtue, and abundance. In ancient times it was associated with devotional practices. In the language of flowers, bee balm is linked to compassion and sympathy. It carries with it the notion of sympathy for loss and hard times and the ability to bring clarity of mind or thought. It is believed by many that the scent of bee balm can guide the soul to heaven.

Bergamot/bee balm is especially popular with bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.