Herbs of the Field - Bee Balm

A beautify flower that is an attractant for hummingbirds and bees, but it is medicinal and tasty too! There are two main varieties of Bee Balm, the garden perennial and the wild version. 

The benefits of using Bee Balm is its antimicrobial effects and helps with treating scrapes, stings, and rashes. Bee Balm has also been known to help with colds and flu, especially the managing of coughs due to its antispasmodic properties.  In addition, Bee Balm has a soothing effect on the digestive system by helping with indigestion, bloating and nausea. Bee Balm is a nervine, which means it has a calming effect on the nervous system. Therefore, it has been used for those experiencing anxiety and stress to help with relief. Due to Bee Balms thymol content, like thyme, it can be used as a decongestant.  

Identification: member of the mint family, therefore it has the typical squarish shape stem, with fine hairs. It also has a slight mint smell. Grows for 2 to 5 feet tall, with a pompom-like purple flower or bright red. Flowers are at the end of the stem, made of several small flowers. Leaves are arranged in pairs, opposite sides of the stem. Sometimes the mature plant’s stems have a reddish color. Leaves have a hairy underside, sometimes on the top. Leaves can grow up to 3 inches long, with a coarsely toothed margin.

Harvesting: leaves, stems and flowers are edible. Leaves can be used anytime of the growing season, but flowers should be picked when in full bloom, May through September. 

Usage: teas, oxymels, salve, sachets, poultices, tinctures, mouth wash, jelly, salad

Cautions: none identified.