Page 17 - Natural Healing Secrets of Native Americans

Natural Healing Secrets of Native Americans

issues. They were also applied to sore muscles, joints, and bruises. Twigs of the plant were used in a tea
for colds, parasites, gas, colic, and fevers. This plant is still used today by some herbalists.

SUMAC

Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina, R. hirta) was used by
Native Americans to treat a cough. The berries were
primarily used in syrup. This was also used to treat
female issues and lung complaints.

The root and bark were used for their astringent
properties, specifically for bleeding. Other uses for
the berries include being infused in tea for fever
reduction, inflammation, and sore throats.

Today, the berries are still a popular foraged
ingredient used to make a refreshing drink.

WILD ROSE

Wild roses (Rosa rugosa) are abundant and considered invasive in many areas. However, Native
Americans used these plants to treat a cold, as well as
in a tea to help the kidneys and bladder.

This is because it acts as a mild diuretic. The petals
were infused in water and drank for a sore throat.

Wild roses are still popular today and used by
herbalists for their astringent properties, especially
the blossoms. The rose hips are also beneficial and
contain high amounts of Vitamin C.

GINSENG

Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) was a very popular
plant among Native Americans living in areas where
these were plentiful. Just like today, it was used as
a tonic by tribes like the Menominee and Cherokee.

The root was primarily used. The Meskwaki used
the plant with other plants to increase their
potency. The Penobscot used the roots to increase
fertility in women.

It was also used for colic, nervous conditions,
headaches, fainting, vertigo, and to induce
childbirth. Because ginseng is so effective, its popularity has resulted in overharvesting. It is now

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