Native American Herbal Medicine
June 26, 2008
There is little doubt that early Native American herbal medicine has had a direct impact on contemporary medical science. Since its inception in 1820, the Pharmacopoeia of the United States of America has listed more than 200 domestic varieties of plants effectively used by various indigenous tribes.
For more than three centuries, researchers of every culture have closely examined these plants, some of which have even demonstrated the building blocks of modern antibiotics.
One of the most significant contributions Native American herbal medicines gave to “white medicine” is their experience with white willow (Salix alba) to treat a variety of maladies. The inner white bark of the slender stems of this tree contains the glucoside salicin. Although effective in its raw form, when ingested it is converted to salicylic acid, the forerunner of today’s miracle drug, aspirin. The Comanche used the ashes of burned willow branches to treat sore or failing eyes. Recent studies show that aspirin may in fact deter the formation of cataracts, in some cases for several years.
Native American herbal medicine also includes willow to ease the discomforts of fever, colds and painful joints resulting from rheumatism and arthritis. Aspirin, it is well known, is the preferred over-the-counter medicine to treat these conditions. We also know today that many salicylates have antiseptic properties as well. Yet, unarmed with such technical knowledge, the Ojibwa and Potawatomi freely used the bark and leaves of willow to treat cuts, sores and skin lesions.
The Office of Alternative Medicine also listed a variety of herbs belonging to Native American herbal medicine can be found to treat many of the same illnesses that the medical profession treats with pharmaceuticals. I am only going to list a few. Rabbit tobacco is used by Native Americans to treat colds, flu, asthma, coughs, and pneumonia. To treat menstrual bleeding, diarrhea, sores, sprains, swelling, and kidney problems including Bright’s disease, Native American herbal medicine includes oak. Bloodroot has been used to heal uterine and other cancers, sore throats, and chronic bronchitis. It has also been used as a pain reliever.
Licorice Supplements for Sore Throat Relief
The licorice or Yathtimadhu is widely been used by Ayurvedic practitioner in various diseases.
* Any burning problem as it is best soothing agent.
* To treat upper respiratory tract infection especially cough and cold
* Help in curing various skin diseases
* Best for any allergic and inflammatory conditions
Tinospora is a perfect health tonic as human studies established on Guduchi’s immune-boosting property showed it to be linked to enhance the function of protective cells present in the body known as macrophages.
* Immunity booster. The herb builds up immunity to remain unaffected by infections that we face daily.
* Fever and common colds
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