Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Native American Medicinal Plants N

John White Watercolor c 1585 British Museum

Native Hemlock – Officially called Tsuga, this is type of Conifer tree in the Pine family. Unlike poison hemlock (conium), the species of Tsuga are not poisonous. Western Hemlock, technically called west coast of North America. It was often used by area tribes as a dye, for tanning hides, making baskets and wooden items. The pitch was often applied topically as a poultice or slave for colds and to prevent sunburn. A decoction of pounded bark was also used in the treatment of hemorrhages. Another species, commonly known as Mountain Hemlock (Tsuga Mertensiana) was also used by Native Americans. The Menominee and the Forest Potawatomi used the inner bark and twigs it in a tea to relieve colds and fever.

Disclaimer:  These herbs have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. Plants listed here must not be used to diagnose, treat, or heal medical conditions. Many are poisonous.