bee balm
“Traditionally, Bee Balm flowers have carried the symbolic meaning of sympathy, clarity of thought, prosperity, and protection. Bee balm was an important plant in sweat lodge ceremonies of East Coast Native American tribes. It also played a pinch-hitter role when colonists needed a drinkable substitute after the Boston Tea Party. Some say its red flowers associated it with fire and Mars.”
What Does the Bee Balm Flower Symbolize?
“Because of its many uses as a medicinal plant, bee balm most commonly symbolizes good health along with protection. It also represents fertility – often seen as a hallmark of good health – and can promote restful sleep.
Bee balm symbolizes good fortune in another way, too – it can be used to represent wealth and money. Its various colors take on different meanings, too, but more often than not the plant has positive connotations and represents good health, protection from illness, and prosperity.”
Medicinal Properties of Bee Balm
Bee balm is antimicrobial and soothing, so it’s often used to treat colds and flu. It also has a soothing effect on the digestive tract and helps to treat indigestion, bloating and nausea. It’s more than just soothing on the digestive system and its antispasmodic properties also help it treat menstrual cramps as well as coughs.
Externally, it’s used to treat scrapes, stings, and rashes.
Bee balm is also nervine, which has a gentle calming effect on the nervous system, similar to lemon balm.
Bee Balm Herbal Steams
Not only does bee balm smell wonderful, but a herbal sachet used to make herbal steam can help clear your nasal passages. Bee balm has a lot of thymol, the same constituent that makes thyme a natural decongestant.
Source: 12 Ways to Use Bee Balm