All herbs
Traditional part
Sweet Gale (Bog Myrtle)
Myrica gale
Traditional useModerate — observe cautionsInteractions: ModeratePregnancy: Caution
Benefits summary
An aromatic bog shrub used as a natural insect repellent and skin wash.
Traditional & historical use
Traditional use (european-folk): An aromatic bog shrub used as a natural insect repellent and skin wash.
Modern claims
An aromatic bog shrub used as a natural insect repellent and skin wash.
How it may work
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
Benefit–risk at a glance
Potential benefits
- An aromatic bog shrub used as a natural insect repellent and skin wash.
Most credible evidence
Evidence strength: traditional use.
Key uncertainties
- See the evidence level above
Known risks
- Avoid in pregnancy; mainly topical/aromatic.
Who should avoid
- Pregnant/breastfeeding people without medical advice
Risks
Avoid in pregnancy; mainly topical/aromatic.
Interactions
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Special populations
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Sourcing & growing
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.
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