Bergamot Seed - Wild Bergamot

Also known as Bee Balm.

A pretty herb with a wonderful lemon-orange scent.

Indian tribes use wild Bergamot to treat colds and bronchial complaints.

The young leaves can be used to add a delicate citrus flavour to fish, chicken or omelette dishes whether used fresh or dried.

The pinky mauve flowers can be added to salads or dried (they keep their colour well) and used as a winter decoration.

Leaves can be used to make a refreshing citrus-flavoured tea or can be blended with good quality black tea (it is a good Earl Grey substitute and became popular in New England after the Boston Tea Party in 1773)

Recommended by the RHS to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

• Hardy perennial.
• Likes a sunny  or partial shade position.
• Likes rich, light, moist soil. 
• Flowers early Summer onwards.
• Reaches 2 - 3 feet (60 - 90 cm) high.
• Direct sow outside either thinly in rows or sparsely in clumps. 
• Lightly cover seed and keep moist. 
• Ensure the plants are always moist but never waterlogged.
• Mulch plants in hot dry spells to keep the roots moist and cool. 
• Great for bees and butterflies.

Top Tips

• Mulch plants in hot dry spells to keep the roots moist and cool. 
• Split the plants every couple of years but only replant the outer shoots of the original plant as the older inner parts tend to die off.

Culinary Uses

• Can be scattered onto salads or summer drinks.
• Leaves can be infused in tea (is used for Earl Grey tea).
• Can be used in stuffing.
• Lovely for flavouring fish and chicken.

Medicinal uses

• As a tea this can help relieve nausea, flatulence, menstrual pain and insomia.
• Steam inhalation can help bronchial catarrh and sore throats.
• Has antiseptic properties.
• Can relax nerves and reduce tension.
• Induces perspiration so can help reduce fever and easing colds.
• Can relieve rheumatic aches.

Other Uses

• Can be dried and used in flower arrangements.
• The flowering tops can be used to make hair oil!
• Used in pot pourri.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using. Avoid if pregnant.