The digestive system plays a vital role in extracting energy from the food we eat and eliminating waste from our bodies. Good digestion is essential for the body to effectively heal and regenerate its cells. Our plant buddies know the answers to good digestion.
Digestion Plants
Plantain-Khuzbunt'an/'Ut'an chischo-big leaf This soothing plant was great medicine for the stomach. The leave were boiled and drank to cure a sour stomach. The plant's seeds are a great source of fiber. The plant is part of the fibrous psyllium family. One only needs to pounded the seeds and add to dishes and sauces to benefit -good aid in cleaning out the intestines
Dandelion-Ditnikwun This bright and cheerful plant is overall a great ally for the digestive system. The roots support the liver to helps breakdown and assimilate food. Another way is to stimulate the gal bladder in producing more healthy bile to break down fats. This sunny plant is slightly laxative and helps move waste out of the body (don't eat too much or you may be running). The inulin in the roots support the friendly bacteria in the intestines. Great for skin issues for all ages.
Yarrow-Lacholabai Known as the blood balancer, this helpful plant does wonders for stomach ulcers and other problems in the stomach. Its healing powers strengthen and support the intestines. Makes a flowery-tasting tea.
Pineapple chamomile- This humble little plant is well known for its power to relax and heal the stomach from bacteria. It helps the stomach with bloating and gas, cramping as well. Caution: some people who have hay fever may have itchy eyes when using. This plant can be infused with hot water fresh or dried, its mild taste leaves one wanting more-great for sleep.
Lamb's quarter- Nutritious plant, full of vitamins and minerals, leaves were eaten for food. Plants high in minerals content and strengthen the digestive tract.
Mint- The aromatic oils are soothing to the stomach and digestion. The leaves were also used in disinfecting the water so not to catch any bacteria in the stomach. Being naturally an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, it serves well to add to food or drinks.
Strawberry-indzi/indzitl'ool (vine) Traditionally the plant was used a food and medicine. The sweet-tasting berries appear early spring which was enjoyed as springs new growth began to appear. The leaves make a good-tasting tea to calm the stomach. The long runners/vines served as good medicine for stomach aches and diarrhea. These were boiled together with the leaves. The leaves can be eaten fresh to help with a troubled tummy.
Fireweed-Khas indak This brilliant pink flower is an eye-catcher. This wonderful plant is great for skin issues and gastrointestinal issues. Not only does it help with diarrhea, but also with constipation. The flowers make a nice fragrant tea and the young shoots are delicious to eat. They have natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.