Monarda, or golden lemon balm, is a herbaceous perennial belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Its botanical name is Herba Monardae, and its homeland is located in South and East America. In Central Europe, monarda is grown in gardens, but can also be found wild.
Monarda is distinguished by beautiful bright red flowers collected in the apical head. Its height can reach from 50 to 90 cm. The plant contains essential oil, bitterness and tannins. However, the peculiarity of monarda is its fragrant flowers, which contain monardine and monardin.
Monarda is used in cooking as an aromatic bitterness that stimulates the appetite. Also, monarda flowers can be used as a cough remedy, and an infusion of the herb can be used to treat wounds. Monarda can also serve as a substitute for black tea.
Currently, monarda is widely used in medicine and cosmetology. Monarda extracts contain antioxidants and have antibacterial properties. In addition, they can help fight inflammation and improve skin condition.
Thus, monarda, or golden lemon balm, is not only a beautiful decoration for gardens and parks, but also has many useful properties that can be used in various areas of human life.