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“The crushed leaves of all species exude a spicy, fragrant essential oil. Of the species examined in one study, M. didyma contained the highest concentration of oil.[7]
Several species, including Monarda fistulosa and M. didyma, have a long history of use as medicinal plants by many Native Americans, such as the Blackfoot, Menominee, Ojibwa and Winnebago. The Blackfoot recognized the strong antiseptic action of the plants, and used them in poultices for skin infections and minor wounds. Native Americans and later settlers also used it to alleviate stomach and bronchial ailments. A tisane made from the plant was also used to treat mouth and throat infections caused by dental caries and gingivitis. Bee balm is a natural source of the antiseptic compound thymol, the primary active ingredient in some modern commercial mouthwash formulas. The Winnebago used a bee balm tisane as a general stimulant. Bee balm was also used as a carminative herb by Native Americans to prevent excessive flatulence.[8] An infusion of crushed, boiled Monarda has been used to treat headache and fever.” Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarda


“M.didyma is most widely used. It's chemical constituents may provide protection from diseases of aging.” Medicinal Plants of North America, Jim Meuninck (2008)


“Due to the presence of a high thymol content which is a strong antiseptic (also in thyme), Monarda has been used in infusion form for a variety of ailments in its long past: colds, flu, upper respiratory problems, gas, diarrhea, nausea, fevers and whooping cough, and topically for skin problems and wounds. “
Herbal Academy of New England (https://theherbalacademy.com/benefits-of-bee-balm-monarda-fistulosa-and-m-didyma/)

     A “Materia Medica” is a body of knowledge that describes how plants have been used therapeutically today, yesterday and throughout history. This is the spot in which The Shire Homestead will describe the herbs used in it's Herbal Apothecary. Herbs are listed in no particular order. We will list our sources and references.


Arnica Montana:


Is an herb that “”has been shown to prevent and minimize bruising”” says Monica Halem, M.D. Specifically, arnica works as a topical treatment for bruising because it acts as an anti-inflammatory and it also helps dilate capillaries under the skin, which allows blood and fluid to move out of the injured area.” (The Big Doctors Book of Home Remedies, 2009 Rodale Inc. page 89) and “Arnica, an herb that comes from a European flower, has natural anti-inflammatory properties. German scientists found that it reduces swelling of the knee from surgery.” page 386 of Rodale's 2009 book.


WebMd “Arnica is applied to the skin for pain and swelling associated with bruises, aches, and sprains. It is also applied to the skin for insect bites, arthritis, muscle and cartilage pain, chapped lips, and acne. “


Herbal Academy of New England “It (Arnica) is an anti-inflammatory and vulnerary herb used to treat pain, swelling, and bruising associated with traumatic injuries such as fractures, sprains, bruises, and contusions, as well as muscular pain from overexertion. For this purpose it can be used topically on unbroken skin or homeopathically.  “