Labrador Tea

Botanical

What is it

Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum, formerly Ledum groenlandicum) is a small evergreen shrub native to subarctic North America. Its leaves have been used as a beverage and traditional medicine by Indigenous peoples.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Traditional cultural beverage

Mixed Evidence

No rigorous clinical evidence for specific health benefits.

How it works

Labrador tea leaves contain ericifolin, quercetin and other flavonoids, as well as volatile oils (sesquiterpenes including ledol). Traditional uses include digestive and respiratory support and as a tonic. Ledol can be toxic at high doses, causing cramps, drowsiness and respiratory depression. Modern dietary use should keep brewing brief and consumption moderate.

Dosage

No established RDA. Traditional use is a weak, brief infusion of a small amount of leaves (1-2 g) per cup, taken occasionally.

When and how to take it

Use occasionally and in small amounts as a flavorful beverage.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried leaves

Traditional tea.

Brief infusion only.

Safety

Strong or prolonged extraction releases higher amounts of ledol and can cause toxic symptoms. Use only small amounts with short brewing times.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Limit intake; avoid concentrated extracts.

Interactions

May potentiate sedatives at high doses.

Food sources

Labrador tea infusion (moderate)

Amount
1 cup occasional
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is Labrador tea safe?⌄

In small, briefly brewed amounts, yes for healthy adults. Concentrated or prolonged use can be toxic.

Does it contain caffeine?⌄

No, despite the name it is not a true tea (Camellia sinensis) and is caffeine-free.

References

Labrador Tea on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Labrador Tea on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Labrador Tea (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.