What Is Sweetfern?

Native to the boreal forest, sweetfern is a plant that was, and still is, used in traditional medicine by several Indigenous communities of North America.

They use it mainly as a poultice for a variety of ailments, and sweetfern is still used for most of the same purposes in modern herbalism.

How to Use It

The dried leaves of sweetfern (Comptonia peregrina) are often steeped as an infusion for their soothing, purifying properties. Here are a few ideas:

1. Infusion: Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain. This gentle, lightly fragrant infusion is ideal for soothing an upset stomach, supporting digestion or simply relaxing.
2. Steam inhalation: Heat water in a bowl, add a few sweetfern leaves, then breathe in the steam for a few minutes to help clear the airways.
3. Soothing compress: Make a decoction by boiling the leaves in water for about 15 minutes. Use it as a compress to soothe skin inflammation or localized aches.

Good to Know

A cold-water infusion of the leaves has been used externally to counter the effects of poison ivy, and to wash insect bites, minor cuts and the like. Indigenous peoples traditionally used sweetfern to relieve flu symptoms and valued it for its anti-inflammatory and stimulating qualities.

Size: 9 g bulk bag.