An article written by our partners Anima Mundi Herbals
“In some Native languages the term for plants translates to ‘those who take care of us’.”
– Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass
1.
Cascara Sagrada (Frangula purshiana)
Origin: Northwestern U.S.
Used for: Known as the “most widely used cathartic on earth”, according to United Plant Savers, cascara sagrada means “sacred bark”. It has been employed as a laxative for millennia. First used by indigenous peoples in North America to relieve constipation, several tribes also relied on the herbal remedy to restore the bowel to a healthier tone.
2.
American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
Origin: Eastern North America; also grows in the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Ontario
Used for: One of the most popular herbs in the United States today, American ginseng root has long been used by Native Americans to treat fever, indigestion, headaches, and even infertility. A stimulant that can boost the immune system and reduce stress, its power also extends to fighting infections like cold and flu and to treat the resulting symptoms.
3.
SLIPPERY ELM (Ulmus rubra)
Origin: Eastern North America
Used for: For centuries, Native Americans have used this healing salve for wounds, burns, skin inflammation, boils, and ulcers. A cough suppressant and sore throat soother, slippery elm is also said to alleviate stomach problems such as diarrhea.
4.
Barberry (Berberis genus)
Origin: Eastern North America
Used for: Native Americans believe barberry is capable of more than just its curative properties; to many, it is a sacred object for ritual practice in the prevention or remedying of illnesses via supernatural powers (source: peer.tamu.edu). In the homeopathic medicinal system, it’s among the most widely used herbs for relieving kidney pain and kidney stones.
5.
Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea)
Origin: Eastern North America
Used for: In Arkansas, Native Americans are said to have regularly carried Angelica atropurpurea in their medicine bags to mix with tobacco for smoking. Additionally, researchers at Texas A&M University shared that angelica is also used to relieve “menstrual discomfort, minimize symptoms of menopause, treat colds and other respiratory problems, prevent arthritis, and combat certain cancers.”
“Everything on the earth has a purpose, every disease has an herb to cure it, and every person a mission. This is the Indian theory of existence’.”
— Mourning Dove (Christine Quintasket)
Note from Conscious City Guide: Please always remember as an community event creator to acknowledge and give reverence to the Native origins of practices of what you share. Read our values and policies here.