Bog Myrtle thrives in the harsh conditions of the northern hemisphere with a long history of being found on the hard to reach paths of mountainous regions and at the top of cliffs along the coastline. It has been used as an insect repellent for these reasons: its location means that walkers and explorers come across the plants when they are being attacked by midges and other insects finding that Myrica gale is proficient in keeping them at bay. The aroma is sometimes comparable to that of cloves and is often used in flower bouquets for its fragrant qualities which compliment other floral scents.