Ledum Palustre

Ledum palustre, commonly known as wild rosemary or bog rosemary, is a species of woody shrub in the heath family (Ericaceae). It is native to northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, typically thriving in bogs, moors, and other wet, acidic environments. The plant is characterized by its evergreen leaves, which are leathery, elliptical, and aromatic, and its small, bell-shaped, white or pinkish flowers that bloom in clusters. In Hebrew, it is known as לֶדּוּם בּוֹצִי (Ledum Bosi). The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly among indigenous peoples of North America and Siberia, for its purported antiseptic, analgesic, and diuretic properties. However, it contains toxic compounds, including ledol and palustrol, which can cause severe poisoning if ingested in large quantities. The essential oil derived from Ledum palustre is also used in aromatherapy and as a natural insect repellent. In Russian, the plant is called багульник болотный (bagul'nik bolotnyy), and in German, it is referred to as Sumpfporst or Moorblaetter.