Bee balm (Monarda) plant and pollinator, Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, 2015.

Common names include bee balm, horsemint, oswego tea and bergamot. The crushed leaves of all Monarda species exude a spicy, fragrant essential oil. Several species were used by Native Americans as medicine: because of its antiseptic properties it helps with minor wounds and infections, stomach and bronchial ailments, mouth and throat infections caused by gingivitis and even headache and fever.