Sweet Fern (Leaves)

UNIQUE. BOLD. NORDIC.

Description

Coming from the boreal forest, the sweet fern is a plant that was used medicinally by several Native American tribes in North America. These tribes use this plant primarily as a poultice to treat a variety of ailments. In contrast, the sweet fern leaves are still used for most of the same purposes in modern herbalism.

What Does Sweet Fern Leaves Taste Like?

We can use the aromatic leaves, fresh or dried to make a tea with a pleasant taste. The leaves are also used as a seasoning. As for their taste, it manifests a certain astringency. It has distinct aromatic notes, which can recall resin, thyme, honey, and eucalyptus. We can consume it in small doses as a herbal tea without any problem. It can also be used to enhance certain recipes and snacks.

Learn More

A cold water infusion of the leaves has been used externally to counter the effect of poison ivy. It is also used to wash bites, minor bleeding, etc. In the past, the natives used the sweet fern to treat flu-related symptoms and they also attributed anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties to it.

How to use it?

Dried leaves of the sweet fern (or Comptonia peregrina) are often used in infusions for their soothing and purifying properties. Here are a few ideas on how to use them:

Infusion:
To enjoy the benefits of dried leaves, you can prepare an infusion. Take about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves for one cup of hot water. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain. This gentle, lightly scented infusion is ideal for soothing stomach aches, promoting digestion, or simply relaxing.

Steam inhalation:
You can also use them for steam inhalation to benefit from their purifying and calming properties. Heat water in a bowl, add a few sweet fern leaves, and inhale the steam for a few minutes to clear the respiratory passages.

Soothing compress:
Make a decoction by boiling the leaves in water for about 15 minutes. Use this decoction as a compress to soothe skin inflammations or localized pain.

Sources

Site: https://pfaf.org

Book: Leaboeuf, Michel, Arbres et plantes forestières du Québec et des maritimes,