Bog Myrtle

Bog Myrtle, Also Known As Sweet Gale, Bog Sally, Candle Berry

Found North Europe, West Europe, Parts Of North America

Grows Bog, Marsh, Wet Mountain Terrain

Catkins Generally Collected In Spring

Leaves Generally Collected In Summer





Midge/Flea Repellent - Crush leaves and rub on skin

Candle Wax - Boil fruit, known as drupe. Not commercially viable

Beer Flavoring - Known as gruit, replaced by hops. Used up to 16th century. Reputation for causing headaches

Vikings used to drink an alcoholic brew made from sweet gale, which they believed gave them extra strength and battle madness


Astringent Herb - Stems Bleeding/Discharge

Antiseptic Herb - Slows/Stops Infections

Diuretic Herb - Increases Passing Of Urine


Used To Treat Wounds, Acne, Skin Problems, Digestion Problems

Dried Bark Used To Treat Intestinal Worms

Make Tea From Fresh Or Dried Leaves

Flavor Soup/Stew/Meat From Fruit Or Leaves. Use small amounts

Used To Dye Wool Yellow

Used In Scottish Wedding Bouquets

Abortifacient Herb - Potential to cause abortion. Not to be used if pregnant


Considered a blessed plant in Irish folklore. In Mayo ash from bog myrtle was used on Ash Wednesday

Another Irish legend has it once being a large tree, but its wood was used to make the crucifixion cross. The tree was then cursed, becoming small and stunted.