The Distillation of Ledum Groenlandicum Hydrosol

A Rotating Column Alembic was used for this distillation. It is ideal for the distillation of hydrosols and essential oils as it employs both steam and hydrodistillation depending on the plant material in question.
This distillation was performed by Mr Thomas Grunfelder one of our esteemed clients and winner of our distillation contest. Mr Grunfelder runs a small organic farm and distillery, he is dedicated to promoting well being by the use of organics and essential medicines. The proximity to a natural wild source of Ledum Groenlandicum also known as Greenland Moss or Labrador Tea sparked his initial interest in the innumerable properties of this plant.
The plant material used by Mr Grunfelder for his top Quality Hydrosol is "wildcrafted" that is to say the leaves where gathered by himself in its natural habitat in the wild. Interest in this plant continues to grow and supply often fails to meet demand.
The plant itself is an evergreen shrub which may grow up to 1 m tall. Small five-petalled white flowers occur in clusters at the branch tips. The leaves are narrow 2 to 5cm long with furry undersides. It is found in colder northern climes of the North American Continent in moist acidic soils and cold bogs. It has a pleasant slightly spicy and floral fragrance and is said to be a powerful detoxifier.
It has traditionally been used for its properties such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antitumor, analgesic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, depurative, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, digestive stimulant and stomachic.
It is said to ease and relieve nervous tension, panic and anxiety
Other indications for its use include liver dysfunctions, hepatitis A, B & C, cirrhosis, fatty liver, obesity, laryngitis, lung infections, bronchitis, allergies, influenza, edema, thyroid regulation, jaundice, gallstones, sinus, coughs, colds, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, low blood sugar, excess mucus, flatulence, gas, fibromyalgia and cancers.
It helps to heal cuts and wounds on the skin and relieve inflamed muscles, muscle pain and spasms.
It helps with disorders of the genitourinary and reproductive system by inducing menstruation, increasing urine flow, toxemia, (edema- simple water retention); easing prostatitis, decongesting prostate.
Because of its powerful effects Ledum Groenlandicum is recommended in small doses and should be avoided during pregnancy and by small children.