Labrador Tea is a name commonly applied to three closely related species or rhododendron: They include:-
Rhododendron tomentosum (Northern Labrador, previously Ledum palustre) – THIS PRODUCT
Rhododendron groenlandicum (Bog Labrador, previously Ledum groenlandicum or Ledum latifolium)
Rhododendron neoglandulosum (Western Labrador, or Trapper’s Tea, previously Ledum glandulosum)
History and Uses of Labrador Tea:-
In Labrador itself, Labrador Tea is also frequently called Indian Tea. All three species are primarily wetland plants in the Heather family (Ericaceae) with strongly aromatic leaves that can be used to make a very palatable herbal tea. Labrador tea has been a favourite beverage among Athabaskan and Inuit peoples for years and years.
The Athabaskans brew the leaves as a beverage and some people chew the raw leaves because they enjoy the flavour. Others use Labrador tea to spice meat by boiling the leaves and branches in water and then soaking the meat in the tea.
The Pomo, Kashaya, Tolowa and Yurok peoples of Northern California boiled the leaves of Western Labrador Tea similarly, to make a medicinal tea. In Greenland, this is still the case. Here it is also used in facial steam bath.
In medieval Northern Europe, it was often brewed in “gruit” ales, prior to the adoption of hops.
Under the terms of Etsy's Medical Drug Claims policy, sellers on Etsy are forbidden to share knowledge of the traditional or medicinal uses of their products. It would be beneficial for you to research a product we feature prior to placing any order. Message us via ‘Etsy Conversations and we will try to assist with any information we can
This information and the products themselves have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health concern or condition you would be wise to consult your doctor or a qualified practitioner