15 Powerful Medicinal Plants Native Americans Used for Healing

For generations, Native Americans have turned to the plants around them for healing and wellness. With a deep understanding of nature’s power, they transformed common herbs into remedies for wounds, fevers, digestion, and more. Their wisdom, passed down through the ages, continues to inspire and prove just how powerful natural remedies can be.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 extraordinary plants used by Native American tribes to treat ailments and promote balance. These plants aren’t just part of history, they’re growing all around us today. Ready to uncover nature’s best-kept secrets? Let’s dive in!

1. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea, often called the purple coneflower, was highly valued by Native American tribes such as the Lakota and Cheyenne for its ability to treat infections and wounds. The roots were chewed or made into teas to help combat colds, fevers, and snake bites, while the flowers and leaves were used in poultices to heal wounds and burns. Its immune-boosting properties were so effective that it became known as a “cure-all” in many traditional healing practices.

This reputation led to its widespread adoption by early American settlers, and by the late 1800s, Echinacea became a key ingredient in many commercial remedies, making its way into European medicine as well.

Preparation:

• Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried Echinacea root in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
• Poultice: Crush fresh flowers or roots into a paste and apply directly to wounds.
  Caution: Prolonged use may cause allergic reactions, particularly in those sensitive to ragweed or other plants in the Asteraceae family.

2. Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)

Native Americans, including the Cherokee and Iroquois, used elderberries to address a variety of health issues, with the berries and flowers being the most utilized parts of the plant. Elderberries were cooked into syrups or poultices to treat fevers, colds, and inflammation, while the flowers were steeped into teas to soothe sore throats and respiratory conditions. Its antioxidant-rich berries also played a role in promoting general immunity and reducing the effects of seasonal illnesses.

In addition to its medicinal uses, elderberry trees were often planted near homes for protection, as many Native American tribes believed they had the power to ward off evil spirits.

Preparation:

• Syrup: Simmer fresh or dried elderberries in water for 20-30 minutes, then strain and mix with honey.
• Tea: Steep dried elderflowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
  Caution: Raw elderberries are toxic and must be cooked thoroughly before consumption.

3. Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)

Black cohosh, particularly valued by the Cherokee and Delaware tribes, was a remedy for women’s health issues. The roots and rhizomes were boiled into decoctions to ease menstrual cramps, regulate cycles, and assist with childbirth by inducing labor. Beyond gynecological use, it was also employed to relieve joint pain, treat snake bites, and reduce inflammation.

Known as “rattle root” because of its dry seed pods, black cohosh was often carried by Native American midwives, who viewed it as essential for childbirth and women’s health.

Preparation:

• Boil 1 teaspoon of dried black cohosh root in 1 cup of water for 15-20 minutes to create a decoction.
  Caution: Prolonged use can lead to liver toxicity. Use under professional guidance.

4. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow, nicknamed “life medicine” by the Navajo, was used for its incredible versatility in treating a range of ailments. The leaves and flowers were crushed and applied directly to wounds to stop bleeding and prevent infection, while teas made from the plant were consumed to reduce fevers and soothe digestive discomfort. Yarrow’s astringent and antimicrobial properties made it a staple in traditional medicine.

Interestingly, its association with wound healing dates back even further. Greek mythology credits Achilles with using yarrow to treat his soldiers’ wounds during the Trojan War. This connection is commemorated in its scientific name, Achillea millefolium, which serves as a reminder of its ancient reputation as a battlefield remedy.

Preparation:

• Tea: Steep 1 tablespoon of dried yarrow flowers in hot water for 10 minutes.
• Poultice: Mash fresh leaves and apply to wounds.
  Caution: Avoid during pregnancy, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.

5. Willow (Salix spp.)

Willow trees, known as nature’s aspirin, were relied upon by many Native American tribes for their pain-relieving properties. The inner bark, which contains salicin, was chewed or brewed into teas to treat headaches, fever, and muscle pain. Willow bark was also used to alleviate joint inflammation and as a remedy for respiratory issues like colds and bronchitis.

Its medicinal use spans many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians and Sumerians, who also recorded its use for reducing inflammation. The development of modern aspirin in the nineteenth century was directly inspired by the salicin compound found in willow bark.

Preparation:

• Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried willow bark in boiling water for 15 minutes.
  Caution: Avoid if you are allergic to aspirin or have gastrointestinal issues.

6. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal, prized by the Cherokee and Iroquois, was used as a natural antibiotic to treat skin infections, eye inflammations, and digestive issues. The roots and rhizomes were ground into powders or boiled into decoctions to cleanse wounds, soothe sore throats, and alleviate gastrointestinal distress. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties made it one of the most sought-after plants.

Its bright yellow roots also made goldenseal popular as a dye for fabrics and tools, adding to its value in both medicine and daily life. This dual purpose made it a commonly traded item among Native tribes and settlers.

Preparation:

• Infusion: Steep 1 teaspoon of powdered goldenseal root in hot water for 10 minutes.
  Caution: Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

7. Sage (Salvia spp.)

Sage held both spiritual and medicinal importance for Native Americans, including the Lakota and Navajo. The leaves were burned in purification ceremonies, but they were also brewed into teas to treat colds, fevers, and digestive problems. Sage’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects were also used to heal sore throats and respiratory infections.

In addition to its medicinal uses, sage smoke was believed to cleanse spaces of negative energy, and burning it during rituals was seen as a way to restore balance and harmony. This practice, called smudging, is still widely used in spiritual and wellness traditions today.

Preparation:

• Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried sage leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
  Caution: Limit intake to 1-2 cups per day due to thujone content.

8. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint, valued for its refreshing aroma and cooling effects, was used extensively by tribes like the Zuni to address a range of ailments. The leaves were steeped into teas to relieve indigestion, nausea, and headaches, while the plant was also used to clear respiratory congestion. Its soothing properties extended to calming nerves and easing muscle pain.

Peppermint’s invigorating scent was thought to stimulate alertness, and some tribes rubbed it on their temples to ward off fatigue during long journeys.

Preparation: Steep 1 tablespoon of fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes to make a tea. For congestion, inhale steam from a bowl of boiling water infused with peppermint leaves.

9. Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)

American ginseng was considered a powerful tonic by Native Americans, particularly the Iroquois and Cherokee. The roots were chewed or brewed into teas to boost energy, improve focus, and treat respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Ginseng was also thought to strengthen the immune system and help the body recover from illness or exhaustion.

Its value was so great that the American pioneer, Daniel Boone, famously traded ginseng as a commodity, contributing to its overharvesting in the 18th century. Its popularity in Chinese medicine made it one of the most heavily exported plants from North America.

Preparation: Simmer 1-2 slices of dried ginseng root in water for 15-20 minutes to make a tonic tea. Chew small pieces of raw ginseng for an energy boost.

10. Seneca Snakeroot (Polygala senega)

Seneca snakeroot, named for its use by the Seneca people, was primarily utilized for respiratory health. The roots were made into decoctions to treat asthma, bronchitis, and other lung conditions. It was also believed to have expectorant properties, helping to clear mucus from the lungs, and was occasionally used to counteract the effects of snake bites.

Legend has it that the Seneca discovered the plant’s healing properties after watching injured animals instinctively dig up and chew its roots. This plant was later introduced to settlers, who also began using it for similar respiratory treatments.

Preparation: Boil 1 teaspoon of Seneca snakeroot in 1 cup of water for 10-15 minutes. Strain, add honey, and drink while warm to relieve respiratory congestion.

Caution: Use sparingly; overuse may cause nausea.

11. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

Witch hazel, a common shrub in North America, was used by tribes such as the Cherokee for its astringent properties. The bark and leaves were boiled into a liquid that was applied to bruises, inflammations, and tumors. It was also used to soothe sore muscles and reduce swelling from insect bites or skin irritation.

Early American colonists adopted witch hazel for its healing properties, and it became a staple in 19th-century patent medicines for skin care and inflammation.

Preparation: Boil 1-2 teaspoons of witch hazel bark in water for 20 minutes to make a decoction. Cool and use as a topical wash for skin irritations or swelling.

12. Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)

Lobelia, also known as Indian tobacco, was used by Native Americans to address respiratory issues and muscle disorders. The leaves and seeds were smoked or infused into teas to treat asthma, bronchitis, and chest congestion. Some tribes also used lobelia as a purgative or to induce vomiting in cases of poisoning.

Its nickname, “puke weed,” reflects its frequent use as a detoxifying agent in purification rituals. This cleansing practice was often performed before major tribal ceremonies.

Preparation: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried lobelia leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. For a steam treatment, add lobelia leaves to a bowl of boiling water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam.

Caution: Use with care; excessive doses can be toxic.

13. Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)

The bark of the black cherry tree was highly valued for its ability to soothe coughs and respiratory ailments. Native Americans would steep the bark into syrups or teas to treat colds, bronchitis, and whooping cough. Its mild sedative effects also made it useful for calming the nervous system.

Settlers quickly adopted this remedy, and black cherry bark became a key ingredient in early commercial cough syrups. It was especially valued during the winter months, when respiratory illnesses were common.

Preparation: Simmer 1 tablespoon of black cherry bark in water for 30 minutes to create a syrup. Add honey to sweeten and take in small doses to relieve coughs.

14. Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

Blue cohosh was a key remedy for women’s health among Native Americans, including the Iroquois and Cherokee. The roots and rhizomes were used to induce labor, regulate menstrual cycles, and treat inflammation. Decoctions of the plant were also used for joint pain and digestive complaints.

Early settlers nicknamed it “papoose root” due to its association with childbirth, and it was widely traded as a valuable medicinal herb.

Preparation: Boil 1 teaspoon of dried blue cohosh root in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes to create a strong decoction. Use sparingly due to its potency.

Caution: Avoid use without professional guidance due to potential toxicity.

15. Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum muticum)

Mountain mint, with its strong aromatic properties, was used by tribes like the Cherokee to treat colds, fevers, and digestive issues. The leaves and flowers were steeped into teas or used in poultices to reduce swelling and inflammation. Additionally, mountain mint was known to repel insects and soothe bites or stings.

Cherokee communities often planted mountain mint near their homes, believing it brought prosperity and protected against illness.

Preparation: Steep 1 tablespoon of fresh mountain mint leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. For insect bites, crush fresh leaves into a poultice and apply directly to the skin.

The Lasting Value of Medicinal Plants

For centuries, Native Americans have relied on plants for healing, using their natural properties to treat illnesses and support health. Many of these traditional remedies are now supported by modern research, showcasing the effectiveness of these plants in promoting wellness. By respecting and learning from this knowledge, we can continue to benefit from the remarkable healing power of these plants and deepen our understanding of the connection between nature and well-being.