Beebalm
Monarda fistulosa
Monarda fistulosa, commonly known as wild bergamot or bee balm, is a traditional plant used by Native American tribes for various purposes. While specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it has been employed in folk medicine and cultural practices. Scientific evidence suggests that a methanolic extract from Monarda fistulosa may decrease interleukin-6 production in stimulated macrophages, indicating potential anti-inflammatory activity. The plant-soil feedback between Monarda fistulosa and Plantago lanceolata is influenced by foliar pathogens and drought conditions, highlighting its ecological interactions. Essential oils from various Monarda cultivars exhibit strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, though the specific varieties of Monarda fistulosa have not been extensively studied in this context. Safety data indicates no major issues recorded, and there are currently no known drug interactions associated with Monarda fistulosa.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Monarda fistulosa 'Premiera' EO contained mainly thymol (49.87%) and showed strong antibacterial and antifungal activity.
- A methanolic extract from Monarda fistulosa decreased interleukin-6 production in stimulated macrophages.
- The study found that western varieties of Monarda fistulosa have slightly deeper violet flowers compared to eastern varieties, based on an analysis of over 40,000 community science photographs.
- The study found that negative plant-soil feedback between Monarda fistulosa and Plantago lanceolata was driven by foliar pathogens and soil microbial communities, intensified by drought.
Frequently asked questions
What is Beebalm?
Beebalm (Monarda fistulosa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Beebalm?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Beebalm; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Monarda fistulosa 'Premiera' EO contained mainly thymol (49.87%) and showed strong antibacterial and antifungal activity.
How strong is the evidence for Beebalm?
The strongest finding for Beebalm carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Beebalm safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Beebalm in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Beebalm interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Beebalm in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Beebalm?
Beebalm is also known as: Монарда дудчатая, Monarde fistuleuse.
Is Beebalm a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 High-throughput iNaturalist image analysis reveals flower color divergence in Monarda fistulosa. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Monarda Fistulosa Flower Extract Decreases Interleukin-6 Production by Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Murine Macrophages. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Biological Characterization and Essential Oil Profiles of Eastern European Cultivars of Thymus, Satureja, and Monarda. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Foliar pathogens and drought drive plant-soil feedback between two co-occurring herbaceous plant species. literature abstract metadata