As of June 2025, wildfire season is once again upon us. This month, a fire near Squamish, British Columbia served as a local reminder that these events are no longer rare or isolated. And while 2025 has so far been less severe than 2024, now is the time to prepare and protect your respiratory health.

What Is PM2.5 and Why Should You Care?

When wildfires burn, they release massive amounts of PM2.5, or fine particulate matter. These are particles smaller than 2.5 microns — small enough to bypass your body’s natural defenses, reaching deep into the lungs and even the bloodstream. Even after visible smoke disappears, PM2.5 particles can linger in the air for days, irritating the lungs, sinuses, throat, and exacerbating conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular issues.

But wildfire smoke isn't the only source of PM2.5. Everyday indoor and household activities can also produce these microscopic particles, including:

• Burning candles
• Woodworking or other dust-heavy hobbies
• Re-suspended dust
• Fireplaces and wood stoves
• Gas stoves and furnaces
• Tobacco or cannabis smoke

When wildfire season overlaps with these indoor sources, the cumulative exposure to PM2.5 can have a real impact on both short- and long-term health.

Why We Created Wildfire Tea

At Gaia Garden, we developed our Wildfire Tea to support the respiratory system before, during, and after smoke exposure — whether it comes from wildfires or everyday life. This thoughtfully crafted blend contains organic herbs known for their ability to:

• Soothe and moisten irritated lung tissue
• Reduce inflammation
• Clear phlegm and congestion
• Support detoxification and cellular repair

Organic Ingredients:

• Plantain Leaf – soothes inflamed tissues and helps clear heat
• Mullein Leaf – moistens and supports lung function
• Thyme – antimicrobial, expectorant
• Red Clover Herb – supports detoxification through the blood and lymph
• Elecampane – a traditional lung tonic
• Horehound – aids expectoration and relieves stubborn coughs
• Hibiscus – rich in antioxidants and cooling to the system
• Wild Cherry Bark – calms cough reflex and smooths respiratory spasms
• Anise – sweetens the blend and gently opens the lungs

How to Use

• Add 1 teaspoon of the Wildfire Tea blend to 1 cup of boiled water
• Steep for 15 minutes, covered
• Drink up to 2–3 cups per day during wildfire season or times of smoke exposure

This tea can also be used for steam inhalation: place the steeped tea in a bowl and breathe in the vapours to calm irritated sinuses and airways.

More Lung Health Tips

• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter
• Keep windows closed on smoky days
• Avoid burning candles indoors
• Limit strenuous outdoor activity when Air Quality Health Index is elevated
• Hydrate well – moist mucous membranes are more resilient
• Eat antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and citrus

Let Nature Help You Breathe Easier

We created Wildfire Tea because we believe in the power of nature to help us adapt and thrive — even when the air around us challenges our health. Whether you’re living near the fires or affected by drifting smoke, this is a season to be mindful, proactive, and gentle with your lungs. Stay safe, stay cool, and let the plants support your breath.