Page 14 - Natural Healing Secrets of Native Americans

Natural Healing Secrets of Native Americans

on the species, but can be pale pink to bright pink in color. The center of the flower contains sharp bristles.
The roots have been shown to have medicinal properties, but also the flowers and leaves.

WILD YAM

Wild Yam, Latin name Dioscorea villosa, may be more
known for its use in the creation of contraceptives,
asthma medication, arthritis medication, eczema
medication, and metabolism control drugs. Just
because the plant is used to create such things in a
lab (basic progesterone starting material) does not
mean the plan in its raw form can treat these issues.
However, the plant also has a history of used with
certain Native American tribes for issues like labor
pains and childbirth assistance. Today, it is still used
in some herbal preparations as a “women’s herb.” It
is a vining plant with heart-shaped leaves. In some
places it is endangered or threatened.

WOOD AND STINGING NETTLES

Canadian Wood Nettle, Latin name Urtica Canadensis, and Stinging Nettle, Latin name Urtica dioica, are
similar nettles used in various ways by Native Americans. Each plant grows in slightly different regions.
Canadian Wood Nettle was used in several ways.
The root was used by the Iroquois to treat
tuberculosis and the Meskwaki and Ojibwa used
it for urinary incontinence.

Both plants have similar compounds and have
been used to treat prostate issues. Both plants
also offered a source of nutrition and
sustenance for Native Americans. Stinging
Nettle was used as a blood purifier and as an
overall tonic.

Both plants have stinging hairs, but Stinging
Nettle has more. Most of the Stinging Hairs on Canadian Wood Nettle are on the stalk. Both of these
plants are used today as a nourishing pot herb. Stinging Nettle is still a very popular medicinal herb, with
uses ranging from treating allergies to urinary issues.

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