Sweet Fern

Comptonia peregrina

Taste: Sweet, sour, earthy, astringent

Origin: Turtle Island

Energetics: Warming, drying

Actions and properties: Anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-septic astringent, expectorant

Systems: Digestive system, lymphatic system, Immune system, integmentary system

Traditionally used for:

• Flus, headaches, Fevers, general support of the immune system
• Stomach cramping, week digestion, diarrhea
• Inflammation, skin issues, acne, eczema, cuts, stings
• Crohn's disease
  

  Brewing instructions:

  • 1-2 tsp of herb per cup of water
  • Boiling water (200-212f/93-100C)
  • Steep for 5-10 minutes

  Contraindications/cautions: Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding. Not recommended for infants. 

  Always consult a healthcare practitioner when consuming any new herb. Like all herb it is best to start with a little to make sure you are not intolerant.

  Warning: This information has not been verified by Health Canada and should be considered for historical and educational purposes only.

  Other uses: Used by indigenous peoples to cover berries to keep them from rotting and protect against pests. Can be made into compress for skin issues. The fresh leaves were used to help treat poison ivy (poultice)