Myrique baumier, chaton

What is sweet gale?

Sweet gale, also known as bog myrtle, is primarily used in cooking to season all kinds of dishes such as stews, soups or game. Sweet gale catkins are used in the production of craft and microbrewery beers. Adding them to beers provides a touch of flavor and also helps them foam. Sweet gale catkins can also be infused to make a delicious and truly local boreal infusion!

What is the difference between sweet gale catkins and leaves?

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

How to use sweet gale catkins?

1. As an 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, bringing a subtle and aromatic touch.
   
   
3. In natural perfumery: Used to create aromatic sachets or scented oils, sweet gale catkins diffuse 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 abortifacient if taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.

In the past, sweet gale was used to repel insects in general and also to make dye! If you're the type to go hiking in the forests of Quebec, you've probably come across it. The same goes if you go canoeing on our lakes, as it can be found there. You've probably also gotten stuck with your boat in one of its groves.