Page 18 - Natural Healing Secrets of Native Americans

Natural Healing Secrets of Native Americans

protected by the federal government. It is still a popular adaptogenic herb today, used by herbalists all
over the world.

WILD BLACK CHERRY

Wild Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) was used by Native Americans much like it is by herbalists today. The
Cherokee used the inner bark to treat coughs, fevers, throat issues, and mouth sores. The Iroquois also
used the inner bark to treat coughs, fevers, colds,
headaches, and soreness. It was widely used for
lung ailments.

The Ojibwa treated many of the same issues with
the bark. One of this tree’s main medicinal
constituents is also toxic. It contains a glycoside
that acts like cyanide. Depending on when the
bark is harvested, it may be in higher amounts.

Fall is the worst time to harvest the bark, as this
is when it is thought to have the highest
concentration of glycosides. Dosage is very
important when it comes to using this plant
medicinally. Although it is still used in herbal preparations for coughs today, its use should be left to a
trained herbalist.

BIRCH

Paper White Birch (Betula papyrifera) is very
common in the northern states. Its paper-white
bark is very noticeable in any forest. This tree
was an important staple to many Native
American tribes, with some using it to make
canoes.

The inner bark was used by the Menominee to
treat dysentery. The inner bark was also used to
flavor medicines and help with constipation. It
could also be eaten as a survival food.

Sap from the tree was used to drink and to treat
scurvy. Birch is still popular today, and is used
by herbalists for skin issues, inflammation, and pain.

ELM

There are two types of elm that were used medicinally. Each species has its own unique use. American
Elm (Ulmus Americana) was used by the Mohegan to treat colds and coughs.

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