Herb of the Month: Bee Balm/Monarda fistulosa

If I were stranded on an island and could only bring one plant, this would be the one I would choose. Monarda fistulosa, also called Bee Balm, Wild Bergamot, Wild Oregano, Sweet Leaf, and Oswego Tea, is a versatile plant from North America. The leaves, flowers, and stems all carry medicinal actions, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, diaphoretic, and nervine, among many others. In this video, Ashley will share how she uses this herb from her garden with family and clients and the traditional uses she has gathered from studying the work of Matthew Wood and Tis Mal Crow. This is a plant that not only benefits pollinators but would be a great choice for any medicinal garden.

Latin Name: Monarda fistulosa

Parts Used: Aerial Parts (leaves, stems, and flowers)

Preparations Used: Tea, Poultice, Tincture, Tea Compress, and Salve