(Dracocephalum moldavicum). Eurasian native that has been cultivated for centuries. The minty-lemony leaves and large purple flowers have long been used in a tea for reputed herbal benefits, including “lightening a discouraged heart.” Beloved by bees, like all the mint tribe.
Cultivated for centuries in Eastern Europe and Asia, the first formal botanical description was by Linnaeus in Species Plantarum in 1753. Also called Moldavian Balm, the fragrance of the plant and its essential oil is similar to Lemon Balm. The dried leaves and flowers are commonly used in making tea that promotes digestive health and relaxation. The upright plants are covered with bright blue flowers that bees and other pollinators love!