Myrique baumier | Chaton entier séché (Myrica gale)

What is sweetgale?

Sweetgale, also known as bog myrtle, is primarily used in cooking to season various dishes such as stews, soups, or game. Sweetgale catkins are used in the production of craft beer and microbrewery. Adding them to beers enhances flavor and also helps with foaming. Sweetgale catkins can also be infused to make a delicious and authentic boreal infusion!

What is the difference between sweetgale catkins and leaves?

The taste between the two is largely the same. However, catkins have a more intense, peppery, and very forest-like taste.

How to use sweetgale catkins?

1. In infusion: Alone or mixed with other Nordic plants, it creates a fragrant and soothing herbal tea.
   
   
2. In cooking: Its fresh or dried catkins can be used to flavor marinades, soups, or sauces, adding a subtle and aromatic touch.
   
   
3. In natural perfumery: Used to create aromatic sachets or scented oils, sweetgale catkin diffuses a woody and invigorating fragrance.
   
   
4. In DIY care: Thanks to its purifying properties, it can be added to creams or lotions to revitalize the skin and scalp.
   
   

Learn more

It is an astringent plant, meaning it causes a tightening sensation in the oral mucous membranes. Also, this plant is abortive if taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.

In the past, sweetgale was used to repel insects in general and also for dyeing! If you are the type to go on forest excursions in Quebec, you have probably encountered it. The same goes if you go canoeing on our lakes, as it can be found there. You have probably also gotten stuck with your boat in one of its groves.