Monardella odoratissima, commonly known as mountain monardella or mountain pennyroyal, has a history of traditional use by indigenous peoples of western North America. Native American groups, such as the Washoe and Northern Paiute, reportedly brewed infusions and teas from the leaves and flowering tops of this plant to address respiratory ailments, including coughs, colds, and congestion. The aromatic properties of the leaves, which contain volatile oils similar to those found in other mint family members, were believed to soothe the respiratory tract and support bronchial function.

Despite this traditional use, there is a lack of modern clinical or pharmacological research specifically validating Monardella odoratissima for bronchial support. Most available information is derived from ethnobotanical records, which document its preparation and use for respiratory complaints but do not provide controlled scientific evidence of efficacy or safety. While related genera (such as Mentha and Monarda) have shown some bronchial soothing effects in laboratory studies, these findings cannot be reliably extrapolated to Monardella odoratissima without further study.

In summary, Monardella odoratissima is used to support the bronchial system primarily on the basis of traditional knowledge. There is currently insufficient scientific evidence to confirm its effectiveness for this purpose.