Bee balm (Monarda didyma) pollen grains by SEM. The flowers make an attractive edible garnish in salads. Bee Balm is edible and medicinal, the entire plant above ground is edible, used as a pot herb, and it is also used as a flavoring in cooked foods. The plant is noted for its fragrance, and is a source of oil of thyme. The fresh or dried leaves are brewed into a refreshing aromatic and medicinal tea. An infusion of young Bee Balm leaves used to form a common beverage in many parts of the United States. Other Names: Eastern Beebalm, Bergamot, Wild Oswego Tea, Horsemint, Monarda..Enhanced SEM. Image width: 90.2 micrometers. Magnification: 1,110x if the image is printed 10 cm wide.