There is some confusion about Bergamot. Bergamot is a small sour orange from Asia. The Chinese used the oil from this orange to flavour tea, which the English now call earl grey. When the english went to America they discovered a herb growing there, Monarda which they thought had an aroma similar to the bergamot orange and it became popular as a herbal tea, in the absence of proper tea. Appart from that, as to any health benefits of drinking tea made from monarda, I have no idea!

Bergamot (Monarda didyma)): Perennial to 1 metre tall and 40cm wide. Also known as Oswego Tea and Bee Balm. Oval leaves, smelling like mint and basil, with pointed tips on stems to 1 metre tall. Grows in large clumps and spreads on runners. Red flowers, which smell of oranges, emerge in shaggy clumps in summer. Pick leaves and flowers through the growing season, but if drying for medicinal purposes, the leaves should be harvested just before flowering or while the plant is in full bloom. Reject any leaves affected by mildew.

Use an infusion of leaves for indigestion, headache, coughs, sore throat, nausea, and menstrual cramps. A steam inhalation of the leaves gives relief for bronchitis.

Medicinal Actions: Expectorant, disinfectant, carminative, antiseptic, antifungal

Usual Dosage: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon dried leaves. Steep for 15 minutes. Strain, and take 1-2 cups per day.

Lemon Bergamot (Monarda citriodora):Tastes like a combination of lemon, pepper and thyme. Goes well in stuffings and sauces for various meats. Makes a lovely tea with rose geranium.

Medicinal Uses: Infuse leaves in oil as a hair conditioner. Apply to pimples, inhale for colds, or drink a little for nausea, flatulence and insomnia.

Warning: Contains Thymol. Large amounts may cause vomiting, diarrhoea and other symptoms.

thanks guys, I'll get harvesting soon!
freckle