Bee balm

Monarda didyma, M. fistulosa

infusion · herb

Leaves and flowers tasting of bergamot and thyme, as a tea: the “Oswego tea” of the American colonists.

Origin

Eastern North America

Where to find it

Along streams and in clearings of the Appalachians; it is planted everywhere in gardens for its red or mauve flowers.

Season (United States)

June to August · grows in your region

Preparation

One teaspoon of dried leaves and flowers, or a few fresh leaves, steep for five to ten minutes; the fresh flowers are also scattered raw over a salad.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Thymol and carvacrol

Did you know?

After the Boston Tea Party, it replaced the boycotted English tea in American teapots.