Herbs - Bergamot (Monardo didyma).

What Is It?

Bergamot, bee balm or red bergamot was originally grown in Italy and used in folklore medicine. The whole plant is used in herbal medicine and its distinctive flavour is used to make earl grey tea. Bergamot in aromatherapy comes from the plant citrus bergamia.

Action

This herb contains a variety of compounds that demonstrate antiseptic, carminative (wind relieving) and expectorant properties.

Uses

Historically bergamot has been used to treat a number of conditions including:

• Flatulence
• Headaches
• Intestinal colic
• Nausea
• Painful periods
• Stomach cramps
• Weak digestion

Other Information

Bergamot leaves can be used to make tea or added to salads to add a unique flavour. They should be used sparingly in cooking due to their strong aroma.

Cautions

• At the time of writing this article no well known side effects, contra-indications or drug interactions occur from using bergamot.

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