In our busy lives, we often have aches in our joints, muscles, or lungs, which can be uncomfortable. Here are some natural remedies from Indigenous plants that have helped First Nations peoples for centuries.
Anti-Inflammatory & Pain - Plants Helpers
Cottonwood Buds> Landooz-dulats'ek Buds appear on cottonwood trees from fall throughout the winter to early spring. Buds were used in hot drinks to soothe sore throat, strep, and other cold-related sicknesses. Resin can be put directly on cold sores and mixed with animal fats -used on congested chests.
Pine-Chundoo it is said that the pine tree can cure just about 98% of our ailments. Traditionally the tree had many uses: cambium for food, pitch used for inflammation and other injuries. the needles can be boiled to drink as tea. The tree properties have a natural anti-inflammatory ability. The pitch was made into a salve with animal fats and used on achy muscles and joints.
Plantain-Khuzbunt'an This leathery leaves serves as a quick band-aid for cuts and blisters. It can be used directly on skin to relief inflammation. As a chewed spit poultice it can take down swelling from a bee sting or relief stinging from poison ivy or scratches from devil's club thorns.
Arnica- This bright glowing plant is our friend with it comes to inflammation, bruising, and pain. Arnica has a long history all over the world as a painkiller. The flower is used only externally, its chemical compounds can damage the liver and kidneys. Unless in a homeopathic remedy. Caution: toxic do not ingest
Devil's Club- Hoolhghulh This ancestral plant is well known for its powerful ability to help with pain, swelling and bruising. A powerful anti-inflammatory which works well in joint, migraine, back pain. The outer bark of the smaller stems and roots were traditionally harvested. Mixed with animal fat, it was made into a salve and rubbed on area.