~ LEDUM – GREENLAND MOSS OR LABRADOR TEA ~
( Ledum groenlandicum )
by KG Stiles, Clinical Aromatherapist
Keywords: BALANCE THYROID & SUPPORT IMMUNE FUNCTION
A rare oil Ledum has a strongly medicinal aroma. Traditionally Ledum has been used in folk medicine and by Native Americans as a ‘cure all.’
Ledum’s powerful action to regulate and balance makes it an especially effective tonic for thyroid gland function.
Pure Ledum essential oil can be used to balance either an over active (hyperthyroid) condition or an under functioning or (hypothyroid) condition.
Ledum has a natural affinity for the immune system and known to effectively stimulate immune function.
In my aromatherapy practice I primarily use Ledum to balance thyroid function and for general immune support. Ledum promotes healthy thyroid function and relieves symptoms associated with thyroid imbalance.
For good reason Ledum has been used traditionally as a ‘cure all!’
Research in brain chemistry and receptor science has found properties in many of the medicinal plants used by native cultures, such as Ledum, to have sequiterpenoid compounds that actively communicate within the human body to produce very specific biological actions.
These actions include: anti-tumoral, anti-malarial, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory effects. Sesquiterpenoids are known to have an especially calming effect on the body, mind and emotions.
Other pure essential oils with sesquiterpenoids known to have strongly calming and reassuring effects are Frankincense, Myrrh, Ylang Ylang (the third distillation of Ylang Ylang has the highest amount of sequiterpenoids) and Vetiver which is primarily made up almost entirely of sesquiterpenoids and known to be highly effective for relieving Panic, Anxiety and Stress.
Ledum’s highly specific sesquiterpenoid profile makes it especially effective for liver and kidney detoxification.
PLEASE NOTE: Internal use of essential oils is not recommended unless you are under the supervision and care of a trained and licensed health care professional!
Ledum promotes the healthy function of respiratory and digestive systems. Its calming properties are useful for relieving stomach upset and nervous indigestion.
Ledum is especially beneficial for relieving cold and flu symptoms such as nausea, aches and pains, congestion, sore throat and cough.
In Ayurvedic Medicine, an ancient system of healing practiced in India, the warm medicinal and spicy aroma of Ledum helps to regulate and pacify both Vata and Kapha Doshas. Symptoms of Vata imbalance are premenstrual syndrome, constipation, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, anxiety and worry. Symptoms of Kapha imbalance are high cholesterol, low metabolic forces, slow to lose weight, fluid retention, stagnation and blockage, lethargy and depression.
BLEND WITH: Ledum’s strong medicinal aroma is rather distinct. Try a sharp citrus oil like Lemon or the powerful and sweet aroma of Fennel to enhance Ledum’s immune enhancing and detoxifying effects and to soften its strong medicinal scent.
