What is Sweet Gale?

Sweet gale, also called bog-myrtle, releases simply incredible delicious forest aromas. It is mainly used in cooking to season soups and stews, but is also very good with any type of game. Its leaves are used in the making of artisanal beer and microbreweries to add a touch of flavor and help it foam. Obviously, it is also used to make boreal infusions, typical of our region!

How to use Sweet Gale?

Infusion : You can prepare a herbal tea by adding about one tablespoon of dried sweet gale leaves or branches to a cup of hot water. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes before filtering and drinking. This infusion is ideal for supporting respiratory health and easing tension.

Decoction : To extract more of its purifying properties, you can boil the sweet gale leaves or branches in water for 10 to 15 minutes. Then filter the decoction before drinking it.

Inhalation : You can also use sweet gale to purify the air in your home. Add dried leaves or branches to a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapors. This can help clear the airways and create a soothing atmosphere.

Learn More

This plant is astringent, but be careful, it is also abortifacient if taken in the first trimester. It was formerly used to repel insects in general, as well as for making dye. If you happen to go fishing in Quebec, you have surely encountered this shrub. It abundantly surrounds lake shores, so much so that it often blocks access to certain areas. If you go canoeing, you have surely gotten stuck in a shallow spot!