Harvesting and Preserving Bee Balm For Medicinal Tea

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Bee balm (Monarda), a member of the mint family, offers a variety of species that can be harvested for tea, each with unique flavors and benefits. Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) is one of the most popular types, known for its subtle, herbal taste with hints of citrus. Monarda didyma, also called scarlet bee balm, adds a vibrant, floral note and a striking its red flowers add a scarlet color to your tea blend. Lemon bee balm (Monarda citriodora), sometimes called lemon mint, boasts a refreshing, lemony flavor that’s perfect for soothing hot tea; this is the variety you see me harvesting in this post. All these varieties are rich in essential oils and lend themselves well to calming, aromatic infusions. Their dried flowers make a beautiful addition to your herbal tea blend. 

The Best Time to Harvest

Timing is crucial when it comes to harvesting bee balm. The ideal time to gather this herb is in the early morning, preferably around sunrise. At this time, the leaves and flowers are free from dew and have not yet been exposed to the harsh rays of the sun. This ensures that the volatile oils, which contribute to its medicinal properties, are still intact and potent.

When harvesting, it’s important to take only what you need while leaving enough for the plant to thrive. If you’re foraging from the wild, a good rule of thumb is to take no more than 10% of any given plant. However, if you’re harvesting from your garden, you can be more generous as long as you intend to use the plant before it wilts.

Identifying Bee Balm

Identifying bee balm is relatively straightforward due to its distinctive features. Bee balm plants typically grows between 2 to 4 feet tall and has a square stem, characteristic of the mint family. Its leaves are lance-shaped, with a slightly serrated edge, and they emit a pleasant aroma when crushed.

Bee balm flowers are its most eye-catching feature. The tubular flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stems and can vary in color, ranging from purple to red. When foraging, it’s essential to ensure accurate identification. Always consult multiple sources or experienced foragers to confirm that you have the correct plant before using it for medicinal purposes.

​Cultivating Bee Balm

Bee balm thrives in conditions that mimic its native habitat, making it a favorite among gardeners for its adaptability and vibrant blooms. This hardy perennial prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Fairly dry soil that is nutrient-rich with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for healthy growth. Bee balm loves moisture, so consistent watering is key, but it’s important to avoid waterlogging. Spacing plants about 18–24 inches apart promotes good air circulation, helping to prevent powdery mildew, a common issue for bee balm. Adding a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, creating the perfect environment for this pollinator-friendly plant to flourish.

Medicinal Benefits of Bee Balm

Bee balm is renowned for its impressive array of medicinal properties. One of its most significant benefits is its antimicrobial activity, particularly against microbes that cause respiratory infections. This makes it an excellent choice for combating chest colds and other respiratory ailments.

In addition to its antimicrobial effects, bee balm possesses anti-spasmodic qualities, which can help alleviate coughing and promote relaxation in the lungs. This is particularly beneficial during the winter months when respiratory illnesses are more prevalent.

• Respiratory Health: Use bee balm to make a tea or steam inhalation, aiding in the relief of chest congestion and sore throats.
• Digestive Aid: It can help with gas and upset stomachs, making it useful for digestive discomfort.
• Skin Relief: A poultice made from bee balm leaves can soothe burns, sunburns, and eczema

The Drying Process

After harvesting your bee balm, the drying process is essential to preserve its potent properties for later use. Start by rinsing the leaves and flowers thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or insects. Once cleaned, gently pat them dry with a clean paper towel. This step is crucial, as excess moisture can lead to mold during storage.

Next, you’ll want to remove the fresh leaves and flower heads from the stems, a process known as garbling. It’s important to select only fresh, undamaged leaves for drying. Discard any wilted or damaged plant material to ensure the best quality of your dried herb. Aim to lay the leaves and flowers in a single layer on your drying trays, allowing for optimal air circulation.

Using a dehydrator is the best choice to dry bee balm because it is fairly quick and hands off. You can hang your plants to dry but that can take a couple of weeks. Using your oven is also an option, but it requires more babysitting. Set your dehydrator to a low temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the moisture content, the drying process can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours. It’s advisable to check the leaves periodically; the dried leaves should be crispy and free from moisture when done.

Storing Dried Bee Balm

Once your bee balm is completely dried, it’s time to store it properly to maintain its potency and elongate it’s shelf life. Glass jars are an excellent choice for storage. They protect the herb from light, which can degrade its quality over time. Use plastic lids specifically designed for herbs, as they create a tighter seal than metal lids.

Before sealing the jars, label them with the name of the herb and the date of harvest. This labeling helps you keep track of freshness. Dried bee balm, when stored in a cool, dark, dry place, can maintain its potency for about a year. To check its freshness, rely on its color and aroma; vibrant green leaves and a strong scent indicate that your herb is still good to use.

Making Bee Balm Tea

Now that your bee balm is dried and stored, you can enjoy its benefits by making delicious tea blends. Start by boiling water and letting it cool slightly. Using your favorite tea cup, add a scoop of dried bee balm leaves and flowers to a tea strainer or bag.

Pour the hot water over the herb-filled strainer and cover it. Let it steep for about 10 minutes. The longer you let it steep, the stronger the flavor and medicinal properties will be. After steeping, remove the strainer and enjoy your delicious herbal tea.

This tea not only tastes great but also offers numerous health benefits. It can aid in respiratory issues, digestive discomfort, and even skin irritations when used topically as a poultice. Bee balm tea is a comforting remedy, especially during cold and flu season.

Tips for Herbal Remedies

When exploring herbal remedies, there are a few tips to keep in mind to enhance your experience. Always ensure proper identification of herbs before use. It’s wise to consult multiple sources or experienced herbalists to avoid any potential mistakes. A good rule of thumb is to get an identification from at least three different trusted sources before ingesting anything. 

Additionally, consider keeping a journal of your herbal adventures. Documenting your experiences with different herbs, their effects, and how you used them can provide valuable insights for future reference. Be mindful of dosage; even natural remedies can have potent effects, so start with small amounts and increase gradually.

Lastly, remember that herbal remedies can complement, but not replace, conventional medicine. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your health regimen, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medications.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Bee balm is a versatile and beneficial herb to incorporate into your herbal medicine cabinet. Its antimicrobial and anti-spasmodic properties make it a valuable ally during the cold and flu season. Whether you choose to use it fresh or dried, its applications are numerous.

As you continue your journey into herbalism, consider expanding your garden to include other beneficial herbs. Each herb offers unique properties and benefits, enriching your overall health and wellness. Explore, experiment, and enjoy the process of connecting with nature through herbal remedies.

Thank you for joining this exploration of bee balm and its many uses. Embrace the journey of herbalism and the healing power of nature right in your own backyard!

This blog does not purport to be, nor is it intended to be, any kind of recommendation or guide on the use of plants for medicinal or edible purposes. Please consult a healthcare provider before pursuing any herbal treatments.

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