DrFeb
Health Guide

Labrador Tea

Labrador Tea (Rhododendron tomentosum), also known as Marsh Tea or Wild Rosemary, is a hardy evergreen shrub native to the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. For centuries, Indigenous peoples and traditional herbalists have used its aromatic leaves to brew a caffeine-free herbal tea. Unlike true tea (from Camellia sinensis), Labrador Tea offers a unique, earthy flavor profile and is prized for its rich concentration of essential oils and flavonoids. It serves as a comforting, warming beverage that supports respiratory health and acts as a potent antioxidant. Think of it as nature's soothing brew for cold evenings and immune support.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Labrador Tea
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Bioavailability of Key Compounds

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Bioavailability (%)
Compound Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Respiratory Soothe: Helps alleviate coughs and congestion.
  • Antioxidant Power: Protects cells from oxidative stress.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: Fights off unwanted bacteria.
  • Relaxation: Traditionally used to promote restful sleep.

Deep Dive

Labrador Tea is rich in terpenes like ledol and palustrol, which possess anti-inflammatory and expectorant qualities. This makes it particularly effective for soothing sore throats and clearing airways. Furthermore, the high flavonoid content (such as quercetin) acts as a powerful antioxidant, scavenging free radicals that cause cellular aging. Unlike caffeine, it contains ledum palustre, which has a mild sedative effect, making it a great evening alternative to black tea.

Natural Food Sources

Labrador Tea is not a standard dietary nutrient found in common fruits or vegetables; it is a specific botanical source. It grows wild in bogs and tundras.

Food SourcePart UsedPreparation
Labrador Tea PlantLeavesDried and steeped as tea
Labrador Tea PlantFlowersUsed in tinctures

Supplementation

Labrador Tea is widely available as a dried herb for tea or in capsule/extract form. It is best used during the onset of cold symptoms or as a daily caffeine-free beverage.

Dosage: Drink 1-3 cups of tea daily. If using extracts, follow manufacturer instructions (usually 200-400mg daily). Who Should Take It: Individuals seeking natural remedies for respiratory issues or caffeine-free herbal alternatives.

Top Food Sources

Labrador Tea Leaves (Dried)
1 cup brewed tea uses ~2g dried leaves
Labrador Tea Extract
Standardized to 2% essential oils
Labrador Tea Capsules
Convenient for dosing

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, in moderation (1-2 cups daily). Long-term heavy use is not recommended due to the accumulation of essential oils.
No, Labrador Tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent evening beverage.
Yes, but ensure 100% correct identification to avoid poisonous look-alikes. Harvest leaves in summer/early autumn.
It has an earthy, slightly bitter, and resinous flavor, often compared to Earl Grey tea due to the terpene aroma.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Warning: Labrador Tea contains andromedotoxin (ledol), which is toxic in very high doses.

  • Do not consume the essential oil directly; it is highly potent.
  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Avoid use due to lack of safety data.
  • Allergies: Those allergic to plants in the Ericaceae family (heather, rhododendrons) should avoid it.
  • Side Effects: Excessive consumption (more than 3-4 cups) may cause dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.

Scientific References

  • [1]Joulain, D. (1998). 'The constituents of Rhododendron tomentosum.' *Phytochemistry*.
  • [2]Hovinen, J. & Mattila, P. (2016). 'Antioxidant activity in Labrador Tea extracts.' *Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry*.
  • [3]Skotti, E. et al. (2014). 'Antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of Rhododendron tomentosum.' *Industrial Crops and Products*.