Bee Balm

LATIN NAME:

Monarda didyma

Bee Balm is also know as Bergamot, Oswego-tea, Gold Melissa, Indian nettle, Red bergamot, and Scarlet monarda.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

This herb is a perennial plant and there are twelve species of the Monarda genus. This species is the one most frequently grown.

This bergamot is a beautiful add-on to any herb garden.

The stem is square, stiff, and hairy with serrated grayish green leaves. It has scarlet flowers and the head of the stem and they are wonderfully fragrant and loved by bees.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Use internally for:

* colds, coughs, sore throat

* stomachaches

* insomnia

* measles

* respiratory tract ailments

* stimulant

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE:

This herb is available as dried leaves in health food stores.

The very young leaves and petals combine well with salads and fruit dishes.

Tea: Pour one cup of boiling water over 2-3 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb (can use 4-6 fresh leaves) and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Keep tea cover until ready to use. Drink a cup of tea in the morning and in the evening or when needed.

Parts used: Flowers and leaves

Constituents: Stimulant, carminative, rubefacient

SIDE EFFECTS: None expected.

SPECIAL INFORMATION:

* The leaves and petals can be dried and used for potpourri.

* The leaves and petals can also be crystallized or used as a garnish.