Bogmyrtle vs Nance

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Bogmyrtle

Myrica gale

Digestive

Byrsonima crassifolia

Digestive

Bogmyrtle

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Nance

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Aromatic shrub of northern European peat bogs used in Norse and Celtic folk medicine for insects, digestive conditions, and as ale bittering agent.

Central American and Caribbean fruit tree; bark and leaves used for digestive conditions, diarrhea, and skin infections in traditional medicine.

Active Compounds

myricanol, galeanol, myricetin, sequiterpene, tannins

catechin, epicatechin, quercetin, tannins, ellagic acid

Traditional Uses

Insect repellent in Norse and Scottish folk medicine, Ale bittering before hops in medieval Europe, Digestive conditions, Skin conditions topically

Diarrhea, Skin infections, Digestive conditions, Nutritive fruit

Modern Uses

Insect repellent, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant

Astringent effects, Antimicrobial activity, Anti-inflammatory properties, Antioxidant support

Adult Dosage

2-4g dried leaves tea 2x daily; topical infusion as insect repellent spray

Bark tea: 1-2 cups daily; fruit as food; topical bark decoction

Contraindications

Pregnancy, Nursing, Large internal doses toxic

Pregnancy large doses

Side Effects

Skin sensitization

Mild astringent effects, Possible constipation

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E