The virtues of Labrador Tea: a boreal treasure with indigenous roots

Les vertus du Thé du Labrador : un trésor boréal aux racines autochtones




🌿 A medicinal plant with multiple benefits Labrador tea is known for its many natural therapeutic properties:

  • Anti-inflammatory: It is often used to relieve joint pain and internal inflammation.
  • Natural expectorant: Ideal for sore throats, coughs or bronchitis.
  • Digestive: It promotes better digestion and soothes stomach aches.
  • Calming: Its mildly sedative effects help to soothe anxiety and promote good sleep.
  • Antioxidant: Its richness in flavonoids helps to combat oxidative stress.

These benefits are attributed to its active compounds, including ledol, tannins, essential oils and triterpenes.

🌾 An age-old use among First Nations peoples

Among several Indigenous nations, including the Ilnuatsh (Innu), the Cree, the Algonquin, and the Anishinaabe, Labrador tea is considered a sacred plant. It is used for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes.

🌬 Traditional Medicine

The plant was often prepared as an infusion or decoction to treat respiratory ailments, urinary tract infections, menstrual pain, or skin problems. It could also be applied as a poultice to wounds or insect bites.

🔥 Spiritual use

During ceremonies or purification rituals, its leaves were burned as incense. The smoke it produces is used to cleanse places or people, much like white sage, cedar, and sweetgrass. It promotes grounding, inner harmony, and connection to the spiritual world.

🧉 How to use it today?

It is possible to harvest Labrador Tea by hand in accordance with natural cycles, ideally at the end of summer, when the essential oils are most concentrated.

Preparing a simple infusion:

Boil some water, then pour it over 1 tablespoon of dried leaves. Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. One cup a day is usually enough to enjoy its benefits.

Warning: Labrador Tea is potent. Do not overuse it, especially during pregnancy or for children. Always consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any medicinal plant into your daily routine.

🌱 Precious knowledge to preserve

Today, the recognition of Indigenous knowledge is gaining ground. Labrador Tea reminds us of the importance of protecting our connection with nature, honoring Mother Earth, and listening to the teachings of our Elders. By consuming this plant respectfully, we participate in the transmission of living knowledge.

📚 Source

  • Arnason, J. T., Hebda, R. J., & Johns, T. (1981). “Use of Plants for Food and Medicine by Native Peoples of Eastern Canada”. Canadian Journal of Botany, 59(11), 2189–2325.
  • Innu oral tradition – Testimonies of knowledge bearers from Mashteuiatsh (interviews collected as part of cultural enhancement projects, 2004–2015).