Oswego Tea is believed to help treat cold, cough, sore throat, fever, appetite, nausea, flatulence and insomnia.
Oswego Tea (Monarda Didyma, Bergamot Tea, Bee Balm, Beebalm) is a native American remedy. The name Oswego Tea came from the Oswego tribe, of western New York, who made tea from the dried aromatic leaves of Monarda didyma. Oswego tea has bright red flowers and a citrus smell. Today, it is often used as a garden plant for its color of flowers.
Oswego tea helps reduce mucus and internal heat by promoting sweating. That may explain why native Americans use Oswego tea to combate cold, cough, sore throat and fever. And Oswego tea is also used as an appetite stimulant to improve poor appetite, relieve nausea, vomiting, flatulence and abdominal pains. With the aromatic smell, Oswego tea has calming effect, and is used to relieve insomnia.
How to make Oswego Tea
– Dried Oswego tea flowers / leaves 1 teaspoon (or fresh flowers / leaves 1 table spoon)
– Water 1 cup
– Honey (or sugar) 1 teaspoon (or according to taste)
– Heat water to a boil
– Put Oswego tea in a cup
– Pour boiling water over the herb
– Add honey or sugar
– Cover and let steep for 5-10 minutes
– Drink it
Please note, Oswego tea stimulates menstruation. If you are pregnant or suffering from menstrual bleeding, you should not use it. Consult your doctor before using it.
Read more information about natural remedies for common cold.