Bee balm (Monarda spp) is a herbaceous perennial from the Mint family. Bee balm produces scarlet and deep purple blooms that are long and tubular. Bee balm has been used extensively by Native Americans who recognized four varieties that had different odors. It's essential oil contains 26 active compounds and high amounts of flavonoids (rutin, hyperoside, quercitrin, luteolin, and quercetin) in it's leaves and particularly it's flowers. The leaves can be used to make a tea which aids in combating against harmful bacteria from its antibacterial properties.
