The
spicy, aromatic leaves of Labrador Tea and Trapper’s Tea were a well known as
a tasty beverage to both First Nations Peoples and early settlers. The plain infusion is mildly laxative and sedative, as well
being soothing to an upset stomach. Russians
love the herb, and use it widely to treat coughs, bronchitis, bronchial asthma,
tuberculosis, stomach problems, headache, kidney and bladder problems, rickets, diarrhoea,
rheumatism (internally, and as a liniment or ointment), scrofula, infertility,
infections, pains in the chest, and tightness of breath.
They use the flowers externally to treat skin diseases, bruises, wounds,
bleeding and rheumatism.
CAUTION: One
of the aromatic constituents, ledol, is a known toxin in larger doses, though it
is poorly soluble in water. Effectively,
this means that various means of preparing the plant for consumption will bring
different medicinal actions. Boiling
or tincturing the leaves releases more ledol, which can cause cramps, delirium
and heart palpitations – even temporary paralysis (these symptoms are not
associated with drinking the infusion). These
stronger preparations can be used externally to kill skin parasites (scabies,
lice etc.), treat tinneas or stop itching from bug bites. Some of the chemicals
contained in Labrador Tea have abortifactant properties – it should be avoided
during pregnancy
OTHER
USES: The
leaves of Labrador Tea are a good moth repellent and have a pleasant smell.
N=Mildly
toxic
MEDICINAL
USES: