Native American Herbs

The European invaders who conquered the American continent in the age of imperialism, were the first ones to scientifically classify the herbs that they discovered in America. The native Americans had already been using the herbs and crops for many centuries. The botanical discoveries, substantially boosted the total food production of the world. Some of the herbs that were discovered by the Europeans were already being used in by the natives in many forms. The following are some of the very important and commonly used herbs.

Acacia: Acacia is usually found in the southwestern parts of north America. It is a native to the desert regions that dot the southern parts of south America. The herbal varieties of acacia have been used in many forms of medicine. Catclaw acacia was widely used by the native Americans. The Catclaw acacia is a desert plant that has an irregular structure of branches. The flowers, fruits and leaves were widely used for medicinal purposes. Acacia are especially used for medical purposes like, to prevent vomiting, reduce hangovers, prevent gastrointestinal inflammation. The leaves, stems and flowers are collected and crumbled into powder, and are used to make medicinal tea or is also used as an ointment.

Bearberry: Bearberry herbs are usually found in high altitude regions. If planted mountainous regions, their growth is boosted due to the quick drain-off of the soil as well as the healthy wind conditions. The plant bears pinkish and reddish shaded berries which are relished by many animals and especially the mountain bears. Bearberry leaves were dried and smoked by the Amerindians. The medicines prepared from these herbs have proved to be very effective medicines. The bearberry medicines have proved very effective to treat urinary track problems. The herb also possess antiseptic qualities.

Cayenne: Cayenne is a type of pepper plant. It was cultivated and used by the Mayans for many centuries before being discovered by Europeans. Cayenne is widely used as an important ingredient in many tropical and sub tropical cuisines. This herb is also used by many people to cool off a heated body, by just consuming it, as its consumption causes the body to precipitate. It also has medical properties and some of its medical preparations were used in ancient times to treat muscle and joint injury. It also forms an excellent remedy against arthritic joint.

Cliffrose: The cliffrose is again one of the plants that was being successfully cultivated by Mayans. Cliffrose is a flowering plant that grows in mountainous areas and is hence named so. The plant has many medical properties. The most useful medical feature of cliffrose is, its antiseptic properties. Chopped and boiled stems can be successfully used against skin problems, nauseous feeling and also for cough and cold.

Creosote Bush: The creosote bush is a herb that emits a remarkably sweet and pleasant smell. It is prominently found in southwestern parts of north America. The native Indians used it for a variety of purposes. The resin of this herb was used to repair pottery and arrowheads. It was also used effectively in medical preparations. It possesses properties that help in cleaning blood. It acts as an antibiotic, antioxidant, anti viral and antibacterial agent.

The Europeans came to the new world in search of gold and treasures. And they indeed discovered a huge treasure in the form of botanical resources. The native American herbs are used even today in many different food and medical preparation. They are an indeed gift of nature.