The Story Behind Canadian Labrador Tea 

There’s a superstar local ingredient in our July Spirit North Community Bar: Canadian Labrador Tea. This shrub (Latin names Ledum groenlandicum and Ledum palustre) loves the wet, acidic soil of northern Canada and the peat bogs to the south. This bog-loving plant also grows in the northern United States, and is a tasty snack for moose and white-tailed deer.

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You may have also heard of the little white flowering plant called by the name “Hudson’s Bay.” Of course, we love local here at Rocky, that’s why we make your goodies by hand in our Canmore, Alberta workshop and we source ingredients as locally as possible.

What’s the tea?

In our soap, we’re using a Labrador Tea essential oil, and this herbal infusion is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Labrador Tea is also rich in antioxidants and ursolic acid — which helps your skin keep its elasticity. We’re all for that. But way, way, way back, the tea was already being used in tons of different ways by Indigenous Peoples. 

Traditional Remedies

Labrador Tea, brewed from the leaves of the plant or the tiny white blooms, has long been used by Indigenous Peoples to treat a variety of ailments. The tea is believed to help treat:

• Respiratory issues
• Digestive issues
• Renal problems
• Rheumatism
• Scurvy
• Headaches

The tea was also historically used as a wash for wounds, insect bites and skin rashes. According to Alberta Plant Watch, you can make a Labrador Tea using either the flowers or the leaves of the plant steeped in hot water for five minutes. 

Beyond the body

Labrador Tea also has uses beyond the physical. It’s believed that the plant can have big effects on your emotions, including facilitating self-awakening and, by using it on your throat chakra, helping you speak the truth. It is also believed to facilitate knowledge and understanding when used on your forehead chakra.

 Do you ever use Labrador Tea? What do you love about it?