Is Bergamot the Same as Bee Balm? Clearing Up the Confusion

As an aromatherapist and herbalist, I’m often asked about the relationship between bergamot and bee balm. While they share a common name, these two plants are actually quite different. Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all on whether bergamot is the same as bee balm.

The Fruity Bergamot

When most people refer to bergamot, they’re talking about the citrus fruit that produces bergamot essential oil Botanically known as Citrus bergamia, this small, round fruit resembles a lime or orange

Grown mostly in Italy, the rind of the bergamot fruit is cold-pressed to extract the sunny, sweet-tart essential oil. Bergamot oil features prominently in Earl Grey tea and is valued in aromatherapy for its uplifting scent. Due to the presence of bergaptenes it can cause photosensitivity if applied before sun exposure.

Bee Balm, the Flowering Herb

Bee balm is the common name used for flowering perennial herbs in the Monarda genus, including Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa. This plant is native to North America and known for its scarlet, pink, purple, or white petals that attract bees.

With its minty aroma, bee balm is often used to make herbal teas. Native Americans used it to treat coughs and digestive issues. The edible leaves add flavor to salads and meat dishes. Though bee balm has therapeutic benefits, it does not produce an essential oil.

So bee balm refers to the floral, minty herb rather than a fruit or oil.

How Did Bee Balm Get the Bergamot Name?

Bee balm is said to have a scent reminiscent of the bergamot fruit. When European settlers came across the herb growing in the Americas, they nicknamed it “bergamot” due to the similar citrusy aroma.

Over time, the common name bergamot became interchangeably used for both the North American herb and the Italian citrus fruit. This has created ample confusion ever since!

Key Differences Between Bergamot and Bee Balm

While their scents may overlap, bergamot and bee balm vary widely when it comes to botany, chemical makeup, and uses:

• Plant family: Bergamot is a citrus in the Rutaceae family. Bee balm is a mint in the Lamiaceae family.

• Parts used: Bergamot oil is extracted from the rind of the fruit. Bee balm uses the leaves and flowering tops.

• Active compounds: Bergamot contains monoterpenes like limonene and linalyl acetate. Bee balm has aromatics like thymol.

• Production: Bergamot yields an essential oil. Bee balm gives an herbal infusion but no true essential oil.

• Benefits: Bergamot oil benefits skin and lifts mood. Bee balm serves as an internal remedy for coughs, nausea, and more.

• Precautions: Bergamot oil is phototoxic. Bee balm tea has no known side effects.

Sourcing the Right Bergamot or Bee Balm

When seeking out either bergamot or bee balm, it’s important to look for the proper botanical name to get the true herb or oil.

For bergamot essential oil, look for Citrus bergamia as the botanical source. This will ensure you get the true bergamot fruit oil.

For bee balm herb, search for Monarda didyma or Monarda fistulosa. Purchase from a reputable supplier who verifies their bee balm identity.

Relying on common names alone can lead to adulteration or substitution with the incorrect species. Check botanical names to guarantee you purchase unadulterated bergamot or bee balm.

Time to Stop the Confusion

While their scents and names may intertwine, bergamot and bee balm are wholly separate plants used in distinct ways. So let’s retire the myth that bergamot and bee balm are one and the same.

Now that you know the key differences between the fruity oil and floral herb, you can clearly communicate whether you seek bergamot or bee balm for your aromatherapy or herbal apothecary. No more confusion – just happy, healthy plants in their proper place.