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 BERGAMOT - also Known As: Monarda, Monarda didyma, Scarlet Monarda,
Oswego tea, bee balm, Red bee balm.
Habitat: This prolific perennial herb bears scarlet
flowers beloved by bees for their nectar. It's hard, square, grooved stems grow
up to 3 feet tall, and the rough, dark, paired leaves which branch off from
them, when crushed, exude an exotic fragrance strongly reminiscent of bergamot
oranges. Bergamot is very easy to grow, preferring a light moist soil in either
sun or shade. However, as with all the other mints, you will have to keep an eye
on its roots to make sure they do not begin to strangle your other herbs. (Many
gardeners plant mints in boxes or pots only for this very reason). Such is the
exuberance of the bergamot, you will probably be able to divide it every 3
years, keeping one clump and giving away the others to your friends.
Properties: Bergamot is a rich source of thymol, an
aromatic antiseptic substance used extensively in modern medicine and dentistry.
The chief value of the herb for the herbalist, however, is as an infusion to
benefit an upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting.
Tea: Infuse 1 teaspoon dried bergamot in 1 covered cup
boiling water for fifteen minutes. Strain and add honey to flavor. |
