Monarda (Bee Balm / Wild Bergamot)
Bee Balm (Bee Balm / Wild Bergamot)
Monarda didyma
Aromatic leaf and flower for digestion, colds and a happy mouth.
Bee balm plant · Herb · Parts: Leaf, Flower
- Taste (rasa)
- Pungent, Bitter, Sweet
- Energy (virya)
- Heating
- Balances
- Vata, Kapha
What it is used for
Benefits
- Eases indigestion, gas and nausea
- Used as a tea for early colds and fevers
- Soothes mouth ulcers and sore throats as a rinse
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Bee balm is a North American aromatic used as a digestive tea, cold remedy and soothing throat wash.
Traditional uses
- Indigestion, gas and nausea
- Early colds, fevers and sore throats
- Mouth ulcers and gum discomfort
Practical guidance
- 1Steep the leaves and flowers as a tea at the first sign of a cold.
- 2Stronger infusions make a useful mouth rinse.
- 3Use culinary amounts in pregnancy; medicinal doses are best avoided.
How much
Dosage
1-2 tsp dried leaf and flower as tea, twice daily.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Bee balm tea
Steep 1 tsp dried herb in hot water for 10 minutes.
At first sign of a cold or after meals
Mouth rinse
Cool the strong tea and swish around the mouth.
Twice daily for mouth sores
Read this first
Precautions
- Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy
- Caution with thyroid conditions
- Do not apply undiluted essential oil to skin
Where this comes from
Sources
Common questions
What is Bee Balm used for?
Aromatic leaf and flower for digestion, colds and a happy mouth. In traditional use the main applications are: Eases indigestion, gas and nausea; Used as a tea for early colds and fevers; Soothes mouth ulcers and sore throats as a rinse.
What is the typical dosage of Bee Balm?
1-2 tsp dried leaf and flower as tea, twice daily. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.
How and when should Bee Balm be taken?
Bee balm tea: Steep 1 tsp dried herb in hot water for 10 minutes. Timing — At first sign of a cold or after meals
Are there any precautions with Bee Balm?
Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy Caution with thyroid conditions Do not apply undiluted essential oil to skin Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.
Does Bee Balm replace medical treatment?
No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.
Where to buy
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