Here are 10 little known but Very Effective uses of plants that the Native Americans have developed and used for centuries. Consider it a first aid survival kit straight from Mother Nature.
1 – Cactus Opuntia was used for treating wounds, spider bites, insect bites, snake bites. Slice the cactus limb in a flat section, much like slicing a flat fish in half. Then simply apply it to the wound or sting.
2 – Bloodroot plant was used to repel mosquitos. They would grind The bloodroot plant into a thin paste using a bowl, a bit of water and a smooth stone to grind and break down the plant. Once broken down the paste is applied to the skin leaving a thin film that mosquitos avoid.
3 – Echinacea, a purple cone shaped flower was used to treat colds or flu symptoms, as well as wounds, fungal infections and snake bites. The root and bloom of this miracle flower are the main parts of the flower that are used. Like the Bloodroot plant, the idea is to grind it into a thin paste which is applied directly to the area needing attention.
4 – The Buttercup flower was used by the pioneers as a bear repellent. They would extract juices from the yellow colored plant and wear it on their clothing.
5 – Butterfly Weed Root was used as a coyote and wolf repellent. Like the Buttercup flower application it was worn as a wash on their clothes.
6 – Hickory Catkins were also grinded down to a paste with some water and applied to the skin to treat sunburn. Aloe leaves are used for this purpose as well.
7 – JewelWeed plant is applied directly to the poison ivy infection. It will minimize the pain, inflammation and irritation while it defeats the culprit. If used before infection it can prevent infection.
8 – Blueberries, besides having antioxidant properties are a great treatment for diarrhea. Although considered funny or disgusting in day to day life, Diarrhea is a potentially fatal illness. A silly fact like this may save a life if diagnosed and treated in time.
9 – Juniper is used by woodsmen even today to repel rattle snakes. Northern White Cedar works just line the Juniper for this purpose. Simply keep a few branches around. It also helps to rub the scent on your clothes.
10 – Lawsonia Inermis is a plant that was used for centuries to treat and cure skin diseases and hair loss.
Nature never ceases to amaze me with its self – sustaining apparatus that’s readily offered to those who have some basic knowledge on the subject. Keep yourself in touch with Mother Nature to get the most out of life.
Happy Gardening –
By Aaron Ohan