Our Monarda – Bee Balm essential oil from France has a fresh herbal, lemony-citrus aroma with subtle geranium-like notes. Monarda fistulosa, known by the name of Bee Balm or Wild Bergamot, is a widespread and abundant wildflower of the Mint family native to North America where it is often used by beekeepers as a ‘honey plant.’ The alluring citrus-floral aroma is reminiscent of the Bergamot Orange – hence the name Wild Bergamot, although no relation to the citrus fruit – yet the essential oil shares greater similarity with Palmarosa or Geranium.

Gaining recognition as a brilliant, aromatic garden ornamental, and notoriety for its many benefits in French aromatherapy, Monarda is now cultivated in Canada and France. Its showy pink to purple flowers are an attractive favorite of bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.[1] An exceptionally high geraniol content, combined with linalool and citral, gives Monarda oil a broad spectrum of action in skincare applications, particularly for topical washes, compresses, foot and nail lotions, bath and body oils, and preparations for congested skin. The calming aroma is refreshing in a diffuser in winter months and combines well with Lavender in massage, chest rubs and bedtime blends. Natural perfumers may find Monarda useful as a fresh citrus-floral top note with unique herbaceous qualities to elevate a wide variety of creations.