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Oak – Scientifically called Quercus, these trees and shrubs have about 600 species found all over the world. Its fruit, the acorn, was a staple of many Native American cultures and the inner bark of the tree was used for a variety of ailments. Acorns are an ideal food for those with degenerative, wasting diseases such as tuberculosis, and when it was rampant in the early 19th century, acorn porridge was often prescribed. Native Americans used the inner bark of the oak to make a bitter decoction used in the treatment of diarrhea, a gargle for sore throats, kidney and bladder problems, viruses, and menstrual bleeding. Poultices were also used for skin problems, ringworm, burns, sores, sprains, and swelling.
Osha – Formally known as Ligusticum Porteri, it is also called Porter’s Licorice Root, Osha Root, Bear Root, Colorado Cough Root. In some Native American cultures it is called Bear Root and Bear Medicine. Of the celery family, this aromatic plant grows in the mountain woodlands throughout the Southwest. The whole plant has been used medicinally, however the thick taproots are most highly valued. Having a wide variety of medicinal properties and highly valued, it was commonly traded among Native Americans, so tribes far removed from the plants indigenous area, also utilized the herb in their ceremonies and medicines. Osha roots, either fresh or dried were in teas, tonics, and chewed for internal use and made into poultices and salves for external use. It has long been known to have warming properties which were used against cold and chills and to stimulate circulation. Salves and liniments were used for sore muscles, body aches, rheumatism, and arthritis, and because of its strong smell was used as a snake and insect repellent by the Apache and Indians, and to treat insect and spider bites. Internally it was used for digestive problems, respiratory problems, headache, cold and flu systems, fever, heartburn, and sinusitis. Many tribes also used the Osha root as incense for purification and during ceremonies. The Chiricahua and Mescelero Apache use the aromatic root with chilies as a culinary spice to flavor meat.
Osmunda claytoniana, used by the Iroquois for blood & venereal diseases & conditions.
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Pinus quadrifolia, used medicinally by the Cahuilla by taking the resin & making a face cream usually used by girls to prevent sunburn. The resin was also used as a glue for fixing pottery & reattaching arrowheads to the arrow shafts. The nuts were given to babies as an alternative for breast milk; were ground then mixed with water as a drink; were roasted; were ground into mush; & were an important trade item.The Diegueno also ate nuts & the seeds also.
Pinus strobus, the resin of which was used by the Chippewa to treat infections & gangrene.
Prunus emarginata, used by Kwakwaka'wakw & other tribes for poultices & bark infusions.
Prunus virginiana, the root bark of which was once made into an asperous-textured concoction used to ward off or treat colds, fever & stomach maladies by Native Americans.
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.
