There are over 20 species in the Monarda genus, all of which are native to North America. The ones I grow in my garden are M. Didyma and Fistoulosa. You can use the young shoots for pesto and the individual flowers are edible and spicy - great addition to salads. Native American tribes used the plant to treat infections (cold, sore throat, sinus), digestive issues, urinary tract infections, regulate the menses, and improve sleep (sedative). Topical applications are antiseptic and anesthetic so poultices, compresses, and salves can be applied to cuts, boils, and wounds. Steam inhalation can help break up congestion and calm anxiety (thanks to carvacrol, geraniol, and rosmarinic acid).