Compiled from literature sources
version 1.0
| Scientific name | Family | English common name | Native common names | General use | Specific uses | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abronia fragrans | Nyctaginaceae | snowball sand verbena | NA | Medicinal | Remedy for stomachache, constipation, and various insect stings | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 224 |
| Acer negundo | Sapindaceae | boxelder | Tashkada: Dakota, adjagobi' muk:Ojibwe | Main, medicinal, other | This tree was also used for sugar making by tribes, sap is mixed with sugar maple sap to drink as a beverage. Wood made into charcoal and used for ceremonial painting and tattooing | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 49; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 353, 394; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 39 |
| Acer rubrum | Sapindaceae | red maple | cicigime'wic:Ojibwe, Cacagobi' muk:Ojibwe | Ornamental, medicinal, main, technical | Furnish designs, boiled the leafs for tea to cure sore eyes. Sap is used to make sugar. Tree is used as lumber for building material. Woods are used to carve | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 353, 412, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 40 |
| Acer saccharinum | Sapindaceae | silver maple | Tahado: Dakota | Main, medicinal, technical | Many tribes used this plant to make sugar and certain dyes, cramps, anti-diarrheal, dermatological aid, hives, eye medicine. Wood is used for lumber | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 48-49; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 40 |
| Acer saccharum | Sapindaceae | sugar maple | A'Nina'Tig:Ojibwe | Main, technical | Utility, sap is mixed with box elder sap to drink as a beverage | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 413, 394; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 41 |
| Achillea millefolium | Compositae | common yarrow | wabigwon: Ojibwe, Xante canxlogan:Lakota, A'Djidamo'Wano:Ojibwe, adjidamo ajuk | Technical, Medicinal, Ornamental | Smoked for ceremonial purposes, spider bite, throat aid for singers, astringent, headaches, herb was used by the winnebago to bathe swellings. For ear ache a wad of the leaves, also the infusion, was put into the ear, most commonly used to treat coughing and throat irritations and to stop bleeding, burial ceremonies. Also used as a treatment for gonorrhea | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 299, 286, 336; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 82; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 16; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 362, 417; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 42 |
| Achnatherum hymenoides | Gramineae | Indian ricegrass | NA | Main | Grain crop, used until corn matured | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 232 |
| Acorus calamus | Acoraceae | calamus | Sinkpe-ta-wote:Dakota, Wiken; Na'Buguck':Ojibwe, Sunka ce:Lakota | Medicinal, ornamental, technical | Used as a cold remedy, and toothache remedy, aromatic stimulant, garlands, necklaces, and used in ceremonies for pleasant odor and mystic powers, used as scent bait for fish, rubbed on fishing nets | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 17-18;Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 299, 340; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 22;Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 238; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 428, 355; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 46; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 48 |
| Actaea rubra | Ranunculaceae | red baneberry | Muckosija'Bosigun:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Emeto-purgative, parasiticide, gastrointestinal aid | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 299; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 382 |
| Agastache foeniculum | Labiatae | blue giant hyssop | Wahpe' yata'pi:Lakota; Weza'Wunuckwuk:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Cough and chest pain | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 224; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 239; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 52; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 340 |
| Allium canadense | Amaryllidaceae | meadow garlic | Pshi:Dakota | Main | Used as food relish | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 19 |
| Allium cernuum | Amaryllidaceae | nodding onion | Cigaga wunj:Ojibwe | Main, medicinal | Used for food. Used as a liver aid juice for liver complaints | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 406. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 55 |
| Allium stellatum | Amaryllidaceae | autumn onion | Muckode'Cigaga'Wunj:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Cold | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 340 |
| Allium tricoccum | Amaryllidaceae | ramp | Siga'Gawung':Ojibwe; Bugwa djijica gowunj:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Emetic, used as a cold medicine, warm juice is used for earache. Young plants are boiled, fried and eaten | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 406; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 59 |
| Alnus incana | Betulaceae | gray alder | Wadub':Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Astringent, emetic, coagulant, inner bark for dying a light yellow, blood medicine. Also used as a laxative and as a remedy for piles | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 299; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 358, 425; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 60 |
| Amaranthus albus | Amaranthaceae | prostrate pigweed | Wahpemakayatapiyecca:Lakota; Kushutsi:Zuni | Main | Seeds as food source as well | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 18 |
| Ambrosia artemisiifolia | Compositae | annual ragweed | Pexhuta pa:Dakota; Canhlogan wastemna, canhlogan onzipakinte, poipiye:Lakota | Medicinal | Remedy for nausea, tea to stop vomiting and cure bloody flux, applied tea to swellings | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 80, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 32; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 66 |
| Ambrosia trifida | Compositae | great ragweed | Canloganwastemna:Lakota | Main | Seeds as food source as well | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 23 |
| Amelanchier alnifolia | Rosaceae | Saskatoon serviceberry | Wipazuka, Okkunokin:Blackfoot; Hetanimins:Cheyenne | Main | Also used to make arrow shafts, ripe fruit cooked or dried, leaves dried for tea | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 35; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 27; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 37 |
| Amorpha canescens | Leguminosae | leadplant | Te-huntonhi:Omahhas/ Poncas, Zitkatacan; Lakota | Medicinal, Main | Powdered leaves used to promote scab growth, stems used in cases of neuralgia and rheumatism, leaves dried for tea, roots for stomach pain | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 225; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 41; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 33; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.70 |
| Amorpha fruticosa | Leguminosae | false indigo bush | Kitsuhast: Pawnee | Technical | Spread on the ground to keep meat clean | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 41 |
| Amphicarpaea bracteata | Leguminosae | American hogpeanut | Bugwudj'Miskodi'Simin:Ojibwe, Makata omnicha: Dakota | Medicinal, Main | Beans are cooked for eating, physic, beans were eaten, fruits used as food, vegetable beans cooked, unspecified roots cooked although deemed of little importance | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 405; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 43; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 37; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 70 |
| Anaphalis margaritacea | Compositae | western pearly everlasting | Wabigwun:Ojibwe | Ornamental, Medicinal | Perfume, powdered flowers sprinkled on coals and smoke inhaled to revive stroke victim | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 362; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 71; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 71 |
| Andropogon gerardii | Gramineae | big bluestem | Muckode'Kanes:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Tea used to treat indigestion, and a bath made to treat fevers, diuretic, little boys pieced together to make arrows, indigestion, used by women to knit, little boys arrows, used by medicine man | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 226; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 72; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 342; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 16 |
| Anemone canadensis | Ranunculaceae | Canadian anemone | NA | Medicinal | Root clears the throat to sing, for pain in lower back | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 382; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 72 |
| Anemone cylindrica | Ranunculaceae | candle anemone | NA | Medicinal | Infusion of root taken for lung congestion and tuberculosis | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 72 |
| Antennaria howellii | Compositae | Howell's pussytoes | Gagig bug | Medicinal | Tea to purge afterbirth | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 363 |
| Antennaria parvifolia | Compositae | small-leaf pussytoes | Canhlo'gan hu wanji'la:Lakota | Medicinal, Main | Ingested in various ways to prevent illness, leaves were chewed like gum | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 227; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 239 |
| Apios americana | Leguminosae | groundnut | Mdo:Dakota; Blo:Sioux | Main | Tubers were used for food by many tribes | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 46; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 77 |
| Apocynum androsaemifolium | Apocynaceae | spreading dogbane | Sasa'Biwan; Ma'Kwona'Gicodji'Bok:Ojibwe; Wesa wuckwun,magosine cnakwuk:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Heart, earache, headache, baby cold, diuretic, soporific, emetic, cathartic, anti-thelmintic, used to make fiber, roots used in ceremonies | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 300, 336; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 354, 413, 428; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 78 |
| Apocynum cannabinum | Apocynaceae | Indian hemp | Nape'oi'lekiyapi:Lakota; Beba'Mokodjibika'Gisn:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Tea as a laxative, a wash to prevent hair loss, cough | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 41; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 78 |
| Aquilegia canadensis | Ranunculaceae | red columbine | NA | Medicinal | Used for stomach trouble | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 80 |
| Aralia nudicaulis | Araliaceae | wild sarsaparilla | Wabos'Odji'Bik:Ojibwe, Bebamabi k:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Remedy for blood, also applied to sores, gentle stimulant, root soaked with sweet flag root to soak fishing net to use as scented bait, taken for fits | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 300, 340; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 355, 428; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 81-82 |
| Arctium lappa | Compositae | greater burdock | NA | Medicinal | Used as blood medicine | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 84 |
| Arctium minus | Compositae | lesser burdock | Wi'Sugibug':Ojibwe | Medicinal | Cough, diuretic, diaphoretic, alternative, used as a remedy of pleurisy. Stomach pain and tonic effect | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300, 340; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 83; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 363; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 84 |
| Arctostaphylos uva-ursi | Ericaceae | kinnikinnick | Saga'Kominagunj':Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Headache, antiseptic, diuretic, leaves were used for smoking like tobacco, used as wash for rheumatism | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300, 336; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 56; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 87 |
| Argemone polyanthemos | Papaveraceae | crested prickly poppy | To'kahu wahin'kpe on ziya'pi:Lakota; Pitsitcya:Comanches | Medicinal | Used as a cathartic, diaphoretic, and diuretic | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 228 |
| Arisaema triphyllum | Araceae | Jack in the pulpit | Caca gomin:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Used for treating sore eyes, chronic bronchitis, asthma, fatuulent colic and rheumatism | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 17; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 355; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 100-101 |
| Artemisia absinthium | Compositae | absinthe | Muse'Odji'Bik:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Tonic, stomachache, stimulant, febrifuge, anti-helmintic | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 92 |
| Artemisia dracunculus | Compositae | tarragon | Bugiso'Win:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Dysentery, chewed root was put on clothes as a love charm. A handful dipped into warm water relieved fevers said a medicine man, topical irritant, diaphoretic | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300, 325; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 82; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 96; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 96 |
| Artemisia frigida | Compositae | prairie sagewort | Bi'Jikiwin'Guck:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Convulsions, hemorrhage, tonic, antidote, used for menstrual irregularity, soap, used for bathing and was taken internally when menstruation was irregular in women | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 96 |
| Artemisia ludoviciana | Compositae | white sagebrush | Nokwe'Jigun:Ojibwe; Pezhihota blaska:Dakota; Pezhihota blaska:Sioux; Peji' ho'ta:Lakota | Medicinal | Omaha said it caused nosebleed but said it was used to relieve headache. Also used as a towel. Relieved stomach troubles. Had some sacred and evil powers as well. Tea for stomach troubles, constipation, inability to urinate and difficulty in childbirth, horse medicine, smoking tobacco | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 81; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 46; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 363, 417; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 97-98 |
| Artemisia tridentata | Compositae | big sagebrush | NA | Medicinal | Unspecified | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 101 |
| Asarum canadense | Aristolochiaceae | Canadian wild ginger | Name'Pin:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Indigestion, appetite stimulant, used to take muddy taste away from fish, used to flavor meat | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300, 336; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 357; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 105 |
| Asclepias incarnata | Apocynaceae | swamp milkweed | Bu'Giso'Win:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Alternative, anti-helmintic, cathartic, emetic | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 107 |
| Asclepias pumila | Apocynaceae | plains milkweed | NA | Medicinal | Anti-diarrheal | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 107 |
| Asclepias speciosa | Apocynaceae | showy milkweed | NA | Medicinal | Unspecified | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 108 |
| Asclepias syriaca | Apocynaceae | common milkweed | Ini'Niwung:Ojibwe, Karipiku:Pawnee; Wahtha:Omaha | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Tonic, diuretic, alternative, emmenagogue, purgative, emetic, mature stocks used as pop gun wads, used in salt and vinegar, used in deer call to imitate hungry fawn call | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 300; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 57-58; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 54; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 357; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 109 |
| Asclepias verticillata | Apocynaceae | whorled milkweed | NA | Medicinal | Gynecological aid to increase milk production | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 109 |
| Asclepias viridiflora | Apocynaceae | green comet milkweed | NA | Medicinal | Anti-diarrheal | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 110 |
| Astragalus canadensis | Leguminosae | Canadian milkvetch | Sunko' wasa'kala:Lakota | Technical, Medicinal, Main | Rattle for infants, tea from the root was used as a febrifuge for children, when eaten relieves coughing | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 39; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 64; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 240; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 113 |
| Astragalus crassicarpus | Leguminosae | ground plum milkvetch | Ptetawote:Dakota; Tdikashande:Omaha | Main, medicinal | Plum-like fruits eaten when ripe, convulsions and hemorrhages from wound | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 60; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 336; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 113 |
| Astragalus gracilis | Leguminosae | slender milkvetch | NA | Medicinal | Increase milk production | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.113 |
| Athyrium filix-femina | Polypodiaceae | common ladyfern | NA | Medicinal | Healing power for sores, taenicide, urine stoppage, grated root used for sours | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 381; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287, 346, 300; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 115 |
| Atriplex subspicata | Amaranthaceae | saline saltbush | NA | Main | Young stems and flower heads eaten | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 64 |
| Betula papyrifera | Betulaceae | paper birch | Wi'Gwasa'Tig:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Pain in stomach | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.121 |
| Betula pubescens | Betulaceae | downy birch | Wigwas :Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Bark is used for buckets, baskets, wigwam coverings, and canoes, innermost bark boiled and reddish dye extracted | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 358, 413, 425, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.121 |
| Betula pumila | Betulaceae | bog birch | Bine micins:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Helps with child birth | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 359 |
| Botrychium virginianum | Ophioglossaceae | rattlesnake fern | NA | Medicinal | Bites | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288 |
| Bouteloua gracilis | Gramineae | blue grama | NA | Main | Seeds were eaten during prehistoric times | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 230 |
| Callirhoe involucrata | Malvaceae | purple poppymallow | Pezhuta nantiaziia:Lakota, Dakota | Medicinal | Smoked for head colds and tea made for internal pains, anesthetic | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 229. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.129 |
| Calochortus gunnisonii | Liliaceae | Gunnison's mariposa lily | psin tanka:Dakota | Main | Eaten raw or pounded fine and boiled | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 241 |
| Caltha palustris | Ranunculaceae | yellow marsh marigold | O'Gite'Bug:Ojibwe, Chippewa | Medicinal | Scrofulous sores, used for skin problems, diuretic, emetic | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Botany, p. 131. |
| Campanula rotundifolia | Campanulaceae | bluebell bellflower | Zi'Gini'Ce:Ojibwe, Cree | Medicinal | Disease of ear, heart medicine | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.133 |
| Capsella bursa-pastoris | Cruciferae | shepherd's purse | I'Ckode'Wadji'Bik:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Dysentery | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288 |
| Carya ovata | Juglandaceae | shagbark hickory | Baga nako bagan:Ojibwe, mitigwaba'k: Ojibwe, Chippewa, Dakota | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Produces nuts, making bows, used for headache, makes soup | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 405, 419. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 139. |
| Castilleja coccinea | Orobanchaceae | scarlet Indian paintbrush | Winabojo' Noko'Mis Wi'Nizisun':Ojibwe, Chippewa | Medicinal | Rheumatism and disease of women, cold remedy | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.140. |
| Ceanothus herbaceus | Rhamnaceae | Jersey tea | NA | Medicinal | Coughs | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 340 |
| Celastrus scandens | Celastraceae | American bittersweet | Bima'Kwud:Ojibwe, manidobima, Chippewa, Cree | Medicinal | Physic and eruptions, emetic, diaphoretic, alternative, urine stoppage, stomach trouble, cancer treatment, cathartic, skin problem, diuretic, anesthetic, gynecology | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288, 300, 346. Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 362. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.144. |
| Celtis occidentalis | Cannabaceae | common hackberry | Yamnumnugapi:Dakota | Aromatic and Psychoactive | Used the berries as a herb | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 24 |
| Chamaesyce serpyllifolia | Euphorbiaceae | thymeleaf sandmat | Naze-ni pezhi: Omaha-Ponca | Medicinal | Decoction given to young mothers and drank to help remedy lack of milk flow | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 47 |
| Chamerion angustifolium | Onagraceae | fireweed | Gijb'Inuskon':Ojibwe, Cree | Medicinal, Other | Bruise, tonic, astringent, demulcent, emollient, dermatological aid poultice of barked, macerated roots applied to boils, abscesses, or wounds to draw out the infection | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289,Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301,Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 210 |
| Chenopodium album | Amaranthaceae | lambsquarters | Walipe toto:Dakota, Cree | Technical, medicinal | Was used to paint bow and arrows green, anti-rheumatic | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 26. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.152 |
| Chenopodium berlandieri | Amaranthaceae | pitseed goosefoot | Kitsarius:Pawnee:Wahpe Toto:Dakota | Main | Young leaves eaten raw or cooked: seeds dried | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 79 |
| Cicuta maculata | Umbelliferae | spotted water hemlock | apagwasi'gons: Ojibwe, Wanukons': Ojibwe, Chippewa, Cree | Ornamental, technical, aromatic | Smoked during hunting, deer bate, anti-rheumatic | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 390, 431. Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.160 |
| Cirsium arvense | Compositae | Canada thistle | masa nuck | Medicinal | Diuretic | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 363 |
| Cirsium undulatum | Compositae | wavyleaf thistle | Tsen:Comanches, Sengtson: Kiowa | Medicinal, Main | Tea from roots was made to treat gonorrhea, root boiled, leaves and flowers cooked | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 234. Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 84 |
| Cirsium vulgare | Compositae | bull thistle | Ji' masa' nuck | Medicinal | Relieved stomach cramps | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 364 |
| Citrullus lanatus | Cucurbitaceae | watermelon | Saka yutapi: Dakota | Main | It was eaten | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 68-69 |
| Cleome serrulata | Cruciferae | Rocky Mountain beeplant | Wahpehehe:Lakota; Apilalu; Zuni | Main, medicinal | Leaves cooked, seeds ground into flour, used as a tea and a wrap in cases of stomach pain | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 91. Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 235 |
| Comandra umbellata | Santalaceae | bastard toadflax | NA | Main | Fruits consumed raw | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 96 |
| Comarum palustre | Rosaceae | purple marshlocks | NA | Medicinal, Main | Dysentery | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Conyza canadensis | Compositae | Canadian horseweed | Canhlo'gan was'te'mna iye'ecca:Lakota; Gabai'Kwuna'Tig:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Used to treat bowel pain and diarrhea, anesthetic use, gastrointestinal, stomach pain, and disease in women, diuretic, tonic, astringent, hunting charm to attract deer | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 236. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Botany, p.171; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301,Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 429 |
| Cornus canadensis | Cornaceae | bunchberry dogwood | Caca'Gomin:Ojibwe, Chippewa, Cree | Main | Berries | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.175 |
| Cornus racemosa | Cornaceae | gray dogwood | Meskwabi mic:Ojibwe | Aromatic and Psychoactive | Used in native smoking tobacco | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 399, 418 |
| Cornus rugosa | Cornaceae | roundleaf dogwood | NA | Aromatic and Psychoactive | Smoked | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288 |
| Cornus sericea | Cornaceae | redosier dogwood | Mis'Kwabi'Mic:Ojibwe, Chan Shasha-hinchake: Dakota | Medicinal, Technical | Eyes, used for smoking | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 288. Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 56 |
| Corydalis aurea | Papaveraceae | scrambled eggs | tipotei,kwason;Ojibwe | Medicinal | Smoked inhaled to clear the head | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 370 |
| Corylus americana | Betulaceae | American hazelnut | Bagan':Ojibwe, Uma:Dakota, Mukwobaga:Objibwe, Chippewa, Dakota | Main, Medicinal, Technical | Convulsions, nuts used as food, roots made to make black dye, used to make drum sticks, brooms, and brushes, anesthetic, makes soup | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, 338. Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River Region, p.22. Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plaints of the prairie p. 98. Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 359, 417, 425. Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.179 |
| Corylus cornuta | Betulaceae | beaked hazelnut | Baga nak:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Expel worms, anti-helmintic, lungs | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 359. Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289 |
| Crataegus chrysocarpa | Rosaceae | fireberry hawthorn | Taspa | Main | Only in times of famine | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 35 |
| Cucurbita maxima | Cucurbitaceae | winter squash | Na'Bugogwis'Simaun:Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal | Vegetable for food, seeds used for tea, dry wings of squash for winter use | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 187; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 367, 399. Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289 |
| Cucurbita pepo | Cucurbitaceae | field pumpkin | Missa bigon:Ojibwe; Wamnu: Dakota | Vegetable; Main | Cut it rings and sun dry it for winter use, no distinction between pumpkin and squash | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 400; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 65 |
| Cuscuta glomerata | Convolvulaceae | rope dodder | NA | Ornamental | Was used to show love | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 58 |
| Cynoglossum virginianum | Boraginaceae | wild comfrey | Masa n :Ojibwe | Medicinal | Cure headaches, used to help burns heal | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 359 |
| Cypripedium parviflorum | Orchidaceae | lesser yellow lady's slipper | Ago'Biso'Win:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Toothache, tonic, stimulant, diaphoretic | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, 300, 342 |
| Dactylorhiza viridis | Orchidaceae | longbract frog orchid | gokocgundamineskwe'min: Ojibwe | Technical | Used as love charm | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 431 |
| Dalea candida | Leguminosae | white prairie clover | Toka'la tapejut'ta hu win'yula:Lakota, Makanskithe:Omaha; Khawtanee:Kiowa | Medicinal, Main | Root was boiled and drank to prevent disease, roots cooked or dried, leaves dried for tea | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 80, Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 109 |
| Dalea enneandra | Leguminosae | nineanther prairie clover | NA | Medicinal | Poison root considered poisonous, strong narcotic effect, used for hunting and fishing | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 190; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Dalea purpurea | Leguminosae | purple prairie clover | Wanalicha: Dakota | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Heart problems, candy roots chewed as a gum. Leaves sometimes used to make a tea-like beverage. Root chewed for the pleasant taste, leaves prepared a tea and was drank to keep away diseases, was kept sacred by the pawnee | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 338; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 191; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 193 |
| Dalea villosa | Leguminosae | silky prairie clover | NA | Medicinal | Lakota cathartic roots used as a purge. Throat aid leaves and blossoms eaten for swellings inside the throat | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 191 |
| Dasiphora fruticosa | Rosaceae | shrubby cinquefoil | o nuhk'is | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Stomach disorders, laxative | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Delphinium carolinianum | Ranunculaceae | Carolina larkspur | Ton-a: Kiowa, Lakota | Medicinal | Kill lice, make shampoo, peyote rattles, plant poisonous to cattle | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 238, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 194 |
| Desmanthus illinoensis | Leguminosae | Illinois bundleflower | Pezhe Gasatho, Pezhe gasatho: Omaha & Ponca ; Atikatsatsiks and Kitsitsaris: Pawnees | Medicinal and technical, Main | Pods used as rattles by infants, and boiled leaves used for itch's, relieve trachoma, restrict growth of tobacco budworms | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 37, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 239 |
| Dichanthelium oligosanthes | Gramineae | Heller's rosette grass | NA | Medicinal | Poison plant poisonous to horses | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 197 |
| Diervilla lonicera | Caprifoliaceae | northern bush honeysuckle | Osawa skanet :Ojibwe, Cree | Medicinal | Urinary remedy, stomach pain, stomach trouble, eye medicine cooled infusion or decoction of roots or stems put into the eyes for soreness. Gynecological aid infusion of roots taken to ensure a good supply of breast milk | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 360, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 198 |
| Dirca palustris | Thymelaeaceae | eastern leatherwood | Djibe'Gub:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Berries are poisonous, bark is purgative. Diuretic tea | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289,Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 390, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 199 |
| Dryopteris cristata | Polypodiaceae | crested woodfern | NA | Medicinal | Root tea for stomach trouble | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 381 |
| Dyssodia papposa | Compositae | fetid marigold | Pezhe piazhe: Omaha & Ponca ; Pispiza tawote: Lakota, Dakota | Medicinal, Main | Settle stomach, stop vomiting, treat diarrhea, veterinary aid plant given to horses for coughs, used as dog food | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 240, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 202; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 80 |
| Echinacea angustifolia | Compositae | blacksamson echinacea | Ichanpehu:Dakota, Ica'hpe hu, On'glakcapi:Lakota, Dakota, Sioux | Medicinal | Used as a remedy for more ailments than any other plant. Universally used as an antidote for snake bites. Smoke treatment for headaches and distemper in horses. Treat tooth aches as well. Painkiller, and for coughs, tooth aches, colds, sore throats, and snake bites | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 79,Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 84, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 203 |
| Echinacea pallida | Compositae | pale purple coneflower | NA | Medicinal | Decoction of roots taken as a vermifuge. Dermatological aid -- poultice of roots applied to inflammation to relieve the burning sensation , analgesic plant used in the smoke treatment for head- ache. Antidote: used as an antidote for rattlesnake and other venomous bites, stings, and poisonous conditions. Decoction of roots used for burns toothache remedy roots chewed for toothache. Veterinary aid plant used in the smoke treatment for horses with distemper | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 204 |
| Echinocystis lobata | Cucurbitaceae | wild cucumber | nigitini, gunuk, mitcugi menuh;Ojibwa | Main, Medicinal | Roots used for tea and stomach medicine | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 367, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 205 |
| Elaeagnus commutata | Elaeagnaceae | silverberry | NA | Main | Candy peeled berries mixed with grease, stored in a cool place, and eaten as a confection. Fruit peeled berries used for food. Peeled berries used to make soups and broths. Cree beverage berries used to make wine. Fruit berries used for food | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 205 |
| Elymus canadensis | Gramineae | Canada wildrye | NA | Main | Seeds were used for food | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 230 |
| Equisetum arvense | Equisetaceae | field horsetail | Giji,Binusk;Ojibwe | Medicinal, Vegetable | Used to feed domesticated ducks and ponies | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 368, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 400 |
| Equisetum hyemale | Equisetaceae | scouringrush horsetail | Gijib'Inuskon':Ojibwe, Cree, Sioux | Medicinal, Technical | Cure gonorrhea, correct menstrual irregularities, cure kidney problems, used to scour their kettles and pans, stems formerly used by children to make whistles (82:58) stem liquid used to kill any type of weed | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289,Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 241, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 418, Moerman 212 |
| Equisetum sylvaticum | Equisetaceae | woodland horsetail | siba,muckun;Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal | Kidney aid infusion of plant used for kidney trouble and dropsy, tea used to cure kidney problems | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 214; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 368 |
| Ericameria nauseosa | Compositae | rubber rabbitbrush | O' iv is se'e yo:Cheyeanne | Medicinal | Used as a rub for irritated skin and small pox | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 233 |
| Erigeron philadelphicus | Compositae | Philadelphia fleabane | Inijan pexuta, Inijanpi:Lakota, Micao'gacan: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Sniffed to make a person sneeze and break up head cold, made tea to treat sore mouths and help people with trouble urinating, hunting charm to attract deer, cold remedies and fever remedies | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 95, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 429, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 364, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 217 |
| Erigeron strigosus | Compositae | prairie fleabane | NA | Medicinal | Headache cure, analgesic plant | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 364; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 220 |
| Eriogonum annuum | Polygonaceae | annual buckwheat | NA | Medicinal, Technical | Infusion of plant used for urination problems oral aid and pediatric aid infusion of plant used for children with sore mouths, white blossoms, brains, liver or gall and spleen rubbed into hides to bleach them | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 219 |
| Erysimum asperum | Cruciferae | western wallflower | Wahca'zi s'ica'man & canhlo'gan pa: Lakota, Sioux | Medicinal | Cramps of stomach and bowels. Analgesic infusion of crushed seed taken and used externally for stomach or bowel cramps | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 243, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 224 |
| Erysimum cheiranthoides | Cruciferae | wormseed wallflower | O'Sawa'Bigwun:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Eruptions | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289 |
| Escobaria vivipara | Cactaceae | spinystar | Oststaxiemon:Blackfoot; Matahesono:Cheyenne | Main | Fruit, flowers and de-spined plant: eaten raw or cooked | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 102 |
| Euonymus atropurpureus | Celastraceae | burningbush | Wana ha-i-mo-thi: Omaha-Ponca | Medicinal | Women drank a decoction of inner bark for uterine trouble | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 50 |
| Eupatorium perfoliatum | Compositae | common boneset | Niya'Wibukuk':Ojibwe | Other, Medicinal | Used for curing colds, fever, flu, rheumatism, kidney trouble, snake bite, and gonorrhea | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 103 |
| Euphorbia marginata | Euphorbiaceae | snow on the mountain | NA | Medicinal | Anti-rheumatic (external) infusion of crushed leaves used as a liniment for swellings. Gynecological aid infusion of plant used by mothers without milk | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 228 |
| Euthamia graminifolia | Compositae | flat-top goldentop | wa'sawaskwune'k: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Flowers used as hunting lure, chest pain | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 429, 366 |
| Eutrochium maculatum | Compositae | spotted joe pye weed | Me'Skwana'Kik Bu'Giso'Win:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Diaphoretic tea from leaves and flowers, strengthening baths, decoction of root used as a wash for joint inflammations | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301,Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 227 |
| Eutrochium purpureum | Compositae | sweetscented joe pye weed | bu' gisowe, Chippewa, Ojibwe | Medicinal | Cleaning children, cold remedy vapors from infusion of plant tops inhaled for colds | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 364, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 228 |
| Fragaria vesca | Rosaceae | woodland strawberry | NA | Main | Fruit strawberries considered an important part of the diet | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 233 |
| Fragaria virginiana | Rosaceae | Virginia strawberry | Ode'Iminidji'Bik:Ojibwa, Waziskeca:Dakota, Cree | Main | Fruit used for food, astringent leaves, diuretic roots, fruit eaten and leaves for tea, treat diarrhea, stomach ache in babies, summer cholera affecting young kids, ripe fruit cooked or dried, leaves dried for tea | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 234; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, p. 289, p. 301, p. 346, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 32, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 245, Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 115, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 409, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 233 |
| Fraxinus americana | Oleaceae | white ash | NA | Medicinal, Technical | Unspecified root bark used for medicinal purposes, used to make canoes | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 236 |
| Fraxinus nigra | Oleaceae | black ash | NA | Technical | Baskets, wood for arrow shafts, bows and pipe stem, they eat the cambium layers which taste like eggs, bows, arrows, snow-shoes, baskets | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 420,Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 56, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 407, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 237 |
| Fraxinus pennsylvanica | Oleaceae | green ash | Pselitin: Dakota,Agimak:Ojibwe, Lakota, Sioux | Aromatic and Psychoactive | Used to make bows. Used to make pipe-stems. Ceremonial items wood used as a part of sacred poles | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 420, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 237 |
| Gaillardia aristata | Compositae | blanketflower | NA | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Gastroenteritis, skin disorders, eyewash, nose drops, ornamental | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 246, Moerman,D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 239 |
| Galium aparine | Rubiaceae | stickywilly | NA | Medicinal | Dermatological aid | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 239 |
| Galium boreale | Rubiaceae | northern bedstraw | NA | Technical | Used for dye | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 240 |
| Galium trifidum | Rubiaceae | threepetal bedstraw | ogibwe'owe' cuwun | Medicinal | Tea for skin disorders | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 387 |
| Galium triflorum | Rubiaceae | fragrant bedstraw | NA | Ornamental | Women used the fragrance | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 63 |
| Gaura coccinea | Onagraceae | scarlet beeblossom | On s'unk oyu'sapi: Lakotas | Medicinal | Sore breasts after childbirth, muscular rheumatism, treat burns, inflammation | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 247 |
| Gentiana puberulenta | Gentianaceae | downy gentian | Makan chahiwi-cho: Winnebago ; Pexhutazi: Dakota | Medicinal | Tonic, treat snakebite, cure caked breast, aid digestion, promote appetite | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 248 |
| Gentiana saponaria | Gentianaceae | harvestbells | Pezhuta-zi: Dakota | Medicinal | Root taken as a tonic | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 243; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 57 |
| Geranium maculatum | Geraniaceae | spotted geranium | o sawaskwini | Medicinal | Intestinal astringent (rhizome), roots used for treatment of flux, and healing a sore mouth | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301,342 , Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 370 |
| Geum aleppicum | Rosaceae | yellow avens | NA | Medicinal | Used to make vomit, sweat and for cough medicine | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 245 |
| Geum canadense | Rosaceae | white avens | NA | Medicinal | Gynecological aid | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 245 |
| Geum macrophyllum | Rosaceae | largeleaf avens | NA | Medicinal | Gynecological aid, pediatric aid, toothache remedy | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 245 |
| Geum triflorum | Rosaceae | old man's whiskers | NA | Medicinal | Indigestion, treat inflamed eyes, canker sores, sore throat, applied to sores, rashes, blisters | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 249 |
| Glycyrrhiza lepidota | Leguminosae | American licorice | Wi-nawizi:Dakota; Wina'wizi ci'kala:Lakota | Medicinal, Main | Earaches, toothaches, fever, flu, blood spitting, roots edible raw or dried, leaves used for tea | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 40; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 113; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 119 |
| Grindelia squarrosa | Compositae | curlycup gumweed | Pte ichi yuha:Lakota; Bakskitits:Dakota | Medicinal, Main | Given to children as a remedy for colic. Also for consumption, and used to treat sores on horses backs. Used for curing blood spitting and kidney trouble. Leaves were chewed like gum and also used in tea. Prevent child bearing | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 81; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 118; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 242 |
| Gutierrezia sarothrae | Compositae | broom snakeweed | Pcji' zizi: Lakota | Medicinal | Herb was given to horses as a laxative for their bowels. Tea for coughs, colds, dizziness, lung trouble. Externally for heat rash, poison ivy, athletes foot | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 81; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 251 |
| Gymnocladus dioicus | Leguminosae | Kentucky coffeetree | Wahnahna | Medicinal | Rectal injections | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 37 |
| Hedeoma drummondii | Labiatae | Drummond's false pennyroyal | NA | Main | Leaves used to make soup | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 255-256 |
| Hedeoma hispida | Labiatae | rough false pennyroyal | Maka chiaka: Dakota | Medicinal | Remedy for a cold | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 60 |
| Hedeoma pulegioides | Labiatae | American false pennyroyal | NA | Medicinal | Remedy for cold fevers and upset stomach | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 256 |
| Helenium autumnale | Compositae | common sneezeweed | Tcatcamo'sikani: Mesquakic | Medicinal | Cure heat cold, reduce fever, prevent menstruation, hemicrania, rheumatism, congestion | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 252 |
| Helianthus annuus | Compositae | common sunflower | Honsona:Kiowa | Medicinal, Main | Oil, food, birdseed, cure rattlesnake bites, insect repellent, fruits eaten raw and cooked, flower buds boiled | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 253; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 123 |
| Helianthus maximiliani | Compositae | Maximilian sunflower | NA | Main | Tubers dug up and eaten | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 258 |
| Helianthus tuberosus | Compositae | Jerusalem artichoke | Pagi:Dakota, Hohinon:Cheyenne; Kisusit:Pawnee | Main | Nebraska tribes used tubers for food, pawnee ate them raw, boiled, or roasted | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 79; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 130 |
| Heliopsis helianthoides | Compositae | smooth oxeye | NA | Medicinal | Stimulant | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 257 |
| Heracleum maximum | Umbelliferae | common cowparsnip | pipigwe'wanuck: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Dermatological aid poultice of boiled or dried root and flowers applied to boils. Throat aid decoction of root gargled or dried root chewed for ulcerated sore throat. Leaf petiole peeled and eaten fresh. Pith scraped out of roasted main stem and eaten. Stimulant, carminative root, rubefacient leaves, sore throat, fish bate | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 260; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301,342; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 431 |
| Heracleum sphondylium | Umbelliferae | eltrot | Zhaba-makan: Omaha & Ponca | Medicinal | Intestinal pains, treat boils, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headache, wounds, sores, toothache | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 254 |
| Hesperostipa spartea | Gramineae | porcupinegrass | NA | Technical | Used as a brush for dressing hair | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 14-15 |
| Heterotheca villosa | Compositae | hairy false goldenaster | Mis' ka tsi:Cheyeanne | Medicinal | Used as a sleep aid | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 233 |
| Heuchera americana | Saxifragaceae | American alumroot | NA | Medicinal | Stomach pain | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 344 |
| Heuchera richardsonii | Saxifragaceae | Richardson's alumroot | Canhlo'hsnasna'la:Lakota; Wahpe't'aga:Lakota | Medicinal | Used for curing chronic diarrhea and sores | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 122 |
| Hieracium canadense | Compositae | Canadian hawkweed | wabi'gwun: Ojibwe | Technical | Flowers used as hunting lure | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 429 |
| Hierochloe odorata | Gramineae | sweetgrass | Wachanga:Dakota | Medicinal, Ornamental, Other | Decorations, ceremonies to bring guardian spirits, cure colds, fevers, clear nasal passages, windburn, chapping, perfume, plant used as incense in ceremony to invoke good powers, used as perfume and burned as an incense | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 255; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 266; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 14 |
| Humulus lupulus | Cannabaceae | common hop | jiwi'cgon'bug:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Used to treat fevers and intestinal pains, and was applied to wounds, used for tea, as baking soda, intestinal pains, fevers, intestinal pain, applied to wounds, and taken for fevers | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 25; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 391,411; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 269 |
| Hydrophyllum virginianum | Hydrophyllaceae | eastern waterleaf | Nebine nanikweiag:Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal | Used for feed for ponies to fatten them up, anti diarrheal | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 405,419 |
| Hymenopappus tenuifolius | Compositae | Chalk Hill hymenopappus | NA | Medicinal | Made into tea and salve used for horses hooves' | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 271 |
| Juglans nigra | Juglandaceae | black walnut | Hma: Dakota | Main, Technical | The nuts where eaten in soups. Used also to make black dye | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 22; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 279 |
| Juncus dudleyi | Juncaceae | Dudley's rush | NA | Technical | Used to make mats, rugs, and bedding | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 279 |
| Juniperus communis | Cupressaceae | common juniper | NA | Medicinal, Technical | Treat common cold. Bark used to build houses. Used to make pens or enclose graves. Other building materials. Pulp wood used for paper | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 282 |
| Juniperus horizontalis | Cupressaceae | creeping juniper | NA | Main, Technical | Beverage leaves used to make tea. Bark used to make houses and other building materials. Pulp wood used for paper and fencing | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 283 |
| Juniperus scopulorum | Cupressaceae | Rocky Mountain juniper | NA | Medicinal | Branches and cones used for colds and pneumonia. Plant burned and smoked for colds and fevers | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 287 |
| Juniperus virginiana | Cupressaceae | eastern redcedar | NA | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Diuretic. Twigs burned and inhaled as cold remedy. Fruits and leaves taken for coughs. Bruised leaves and berries used for headaches. Berries eaten. Building materials | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 289 |
| Koeleria macrantha | Gramineae | prairie Junegrass | NA | Main | Diuretic. Twigs burned and inhaled as cold remedy. Fruits and leaves taken for coughs. Bruised leaves and berries used for headaches. Berries eaten | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 231 |
| Lactuca biennis | Compositae | tall blue lettuce | dodoca'bo: Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal | Flowers used as hunting lure, easier lactation tea, gynecological aid, hunting and fishing items, analgesic, anti-diarrheal, anti-emetic, anti-hemorrhagic, heart medicine, used to ease lactation, deer attractant | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 364, p. 429; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 717, p. 719, p. 294 |
| Laportea canadensis | Urticaceae | Canadian woodnettle | masana'tig: Oijbwe | Medicinal, Technical, Main | Rind used as sewing fiber, roots and leaves used to make tea for urinary ailments, seeds and flowers used for wine, mildly narcotic, diuretic | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 391, p. 423/Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 717, p. 718, p.295 |
| Larix laricina | Pinaceae | tamarack | mucki'gwatig: Ojibwe/Cree | Medicinal, Technical | Laxative, tonic, diuretic, sewing material, used for vomiting, disinfectant, basketry, canoe material | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301/Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 421/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 294, p. 717, p. 718 |
| Lathyrus ochroleucus | Leguminosae | cream pea | bugwa'djukpini'kmine'bug: Ojibwe/Bugwa dj pinik:Ojibwe | Technical, Main, Medicinal | Pony feed, used for indian potatoes, gastrointestinal aid, veterinary aid | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 406, p. 419/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 717, p.718, p. 298 |
| Lathyrus palustris | Leguminosae | marsh pea | bebeji'goganji macki'ki: Ojibwe/ Chippewa | Technical, Main, Medicinal | Pony feed, veterinary aid | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 419./ Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 298/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 718, p. 295 |
| Lathyrus venosus | Leguminosae | veiny pea | NA | Medicinal | Convulsions | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 336/ Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 298 |
| Ledum groenlandicum | Ericaceae | bog Labrador tea | Waboskiki bug:Ojibwe/Chippewa/Cree | Main, Medicinal | Used for tea, expectorant, tonic leaves, burns stings | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 401/Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 297, p.304, p. 718, p. 300 |
| Lepidium densiflorum | Cruciferae | common pepperweed | NA | Medicinal | Kidney aid | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 692, p. 301 |
| Liatris punctata | Compositae | dotted blazing star | Tat e' cannuga:Lakota/Kahtsudawidu:Pawnee/Chippewa | Medicinal, Main | Used for curing low appetite problems and heart pains, roots are used in cooking, dietary aid | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 136/Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 143/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 316 & p. 692 |
| Liatris scariosa | Compositae | devil's bite | NA | Medicinal | Pawnee said leaved were boiled and the decoction was given to children for diarrhea | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 81 |
| Lilium philadelphicum | Liliaceae | wood lily | Mnahca'hca: Lakota/Chippewa | Medicinal | Antidote for bites of brown spider, relieve inflammation and swelling, dermatological aid | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 258/ Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 305, p. 654, p. 307 |
| Linaria vulgaris | Plantaginaceae | butter and eggs | owacawa' skweneg | Medicinal | Diuretic and cathartic, herbal steam, respiratory aid | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 389/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 717 |
| Linum lewisii | Linaceae | Lewis flax | NA | Main, technical | Seeds were used because of their high nutritional value and flavor, fodder | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 46/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 654 |
| Linum perenne | Linaceae | blue flax | NA | Medicinal, Main | Eyewash, applied to swellings and lumps, treat coughs, gallstones, digestive, urinary, and lung disorders, highly nutritious flavor additive | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 259/Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 244 |
| Lithospermum canescens | Boraginaceae | hoary puccoon | NA | Technical | Used to chew with gum | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 59 |
| Lithospermum incisum | Boraginaceae | narrowleaf stoneseed | Peju'ta sabsa'pa:Lakota | Medicinal | Used for curing lung hemorrhages and chest wounds | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 141/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 311 |
| Lomatium foeniculaceum | Umbelliferae | desert biscuitroot | Sahijelatatinpsinla:Lakota | Medicinal, Main | Love charm, treat cold, fever, gain weight, relieve sore throats and coughs, roots are often dried and ground into flower and made into biscuits or bread | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 55; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 260/Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 147/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.654 |
| Lycopodium complanatum | Lycopodiaceae | groundcedar | NA | Medicinal | Stimulant | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 718, p. 323 |
| Lygodesmia juncea | Compositae | rush skeletonplant | Maka' cans'inhu: Lakota ; Tatawisse'hcyo: Cheyenne ; Oot-squeeks-see: Blackfeet | Medicinal | Infusion of the stem to treat sore eyes mothers also used this to increase milk flow. Used for chewing gum, cure diarrhea, increase milk flow, kidney trouble, pediatric aid, eye medicine, gynecological aid | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 84/Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 261/Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 692, p. 748 |
| Maianthemum canadense | Asparagaceae | Canada mayflower | agonsominun;Ojibwe | Medicinal, Food, and Technical | Kidneys, throats, headache | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 373; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 331 |
| Maianthemum racemosum | Asparagaceae | feathery false lily of the valley | agongosi widji bik;Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Headache, stimulant, diuretic, convulsions, canoe pitch, analgesic, sore throat and keeps kidneys open during pregnancy, used for feed for ponies to fatten them up | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 374, 407; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 299, 338; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 420; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 31 |
| Maianthemum stellatum | Asparagaceae | starry false lily of the valley | peshekisimini | Medicinal, Main | Blood clotting, cure temporary insanity, loosen bowels, sore throat, headache | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.282 |
| Melilotus officinalis | Leguminosae | sweetclover | NA | Other, Medicinal, Main | Incense and fragrances, utility, sap is mixed with box elder sap to drink as a beverage | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 657; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 413, 394; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 41 |
| Mentha arvensis | Labiatae | wild mint | Cejaka:Lakota; Can pezuta cikala:Lakota; wuckons; Ojibwe; Andego bigons:Ojibwe | Ornamental, Technical | Design work for beading, smoked for ceremonial purposes | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 413, 417 |
| Mirabilis linearis | Nyctaginaceae | narrowleaf four o'clock | NA | Medicinal | Diuretic | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 692 |
| Mirabilis nyctaginea | Nyctaginaceae | heartleaf four o'clock | Be'Dukadak'Igisn:Ojibwe, Poipe:Dakota | Medicinal | Sprain, used for fever and also got rid of tape worm, spider bite | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 26; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 362 |
| Monarda fistulosa | Labiatae | wild bergamot | Hehaka ta pezhuta: Dakota; Hehaka to wote:Dakota; pezhe pa:Omaha | Medicinal | Purgative, parasiticide | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 286, 299; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 382 |
| Nepeta cataria | Labiatae | catnip | tci,wukOjibwe; Tci namewuck:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Leaf | Stimulant, tonic, emmenagogue, tea used to "purify blood". Beverage leaves used to make a beverage tea | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 372, 402; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany p. 354 |
| Nuphar lutea | Nymphaeaceae | yellow pond-lily | NA | Medicinal | Dermatological aid, poultice of grated root applied to sores and powdered root used for cuts and swelling | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany p. 358, 359 |
| Oenothera biennis | Onagraceae | common evening primrose | Canhlo'gan hu'nla:Lakota | Medicinal, Main, Aromatic and Psychoactive | Used for healing bruises and sores, roots eaten, leaves used as a pot herb, incense, fragrance seeds, aromatic | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 160, Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 246, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 361 |
| Onoclea sensibilis | Polypodiaceae | sensitive fern | NA | Medicinal | Simulates the flow of milk | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 382 |
| Onosmodium bejariense | Boraginaceae | soft-hair marbleseed | Poi'piye & Sunkcan'kanhuiije: Lakota ; Makesk o wa ni'a: Cheyenne | Medicinal | Treat swellings in humans and horses, lumbago, restore feeling to a numb area | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 265 |
| Opuntia humifusa | Cactaceae | devil's-tongue | Unchela: Dakota | Main, technical, and medicinal | Used to play a game, dermatological aid for wounds, snake bite remedy, induce labor, a dye for painted hides, and the fruits were eaten | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 52, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 366 |
| Opuntia polyacantha | Cactaceae | plains pricklypear | NA | Medicinal and technical | Dermatological aid for wounds and dye for hides | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 368 |
| Orobanche ludoviciana | Orobanchaceae | Louisiana broomrape | NA | Main | Entire plant was eaten | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 247 |
| Osmorhiza claytonii | Umbelliferae | Clayton's sweetroot | NA | Medicinal | Sore throat, ulcers, runny nose, gynecological aid to ease parturition | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 371 |
| Osmorhiza longistylis | Umbelliferae | longstyle sweetroot | osaga' tikum:Ojibwe | Main, medicinal, and aromatic and psychoactive | Leaves used for tea, which is good for sore throats, aromatic, carminative, stomachache, eases parturition | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 391, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 371 |
| Ostrya virginiana | Betulaceae | hophornbeam | NA | Medicinal and technical | Tonic, kidney trouble, coughs, lung hemorrhages, wood used for making bows, flower used for painting the face | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 373 |
| Oxalis violacea | Oxalidaceae | violet woodsorrel | Hade-sathe:Omaha; skidadihorit:Pawnee | Main | Leaves, flowers, bulbs may be cooked or consumed raw | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 158-159 |
| Oxytropis lambertii | Leguminosae | purple locoweed | NA | Medicinal | Poison in large quantities to horses, but plant and root can be used for food source for horses | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 375 |
| Parthenocissus quinquefolia | Vitaceae | Virginia creeper | manido' bimakwit:Ojibwe | Main | Food | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 411 |
| Pastinaca sativa | Umbelliferae | wild parsnip | pigwe'wunusk:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Small amount of root is mixed with other kinds of roots to make tea for female troubles | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 391 |
| Pedicularis canadensis | Orobanchaceae | Canadian lousewort | mandami' niogji, manda'miniodjibikens: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Aphrodisiac, root eaten | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 389, p. 431, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 267, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 378 |
| Pediomelum esculentum | Leguminosae | large Indian breadroot | Dogoe:Osage, tipsi | Main | Cooked, fresh, or dried | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 183-185 , Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 40 |
| Penstemon grandiflorus | Plantaginaceae | large beardtongue | Zuze'ca tapcju'ta: Lakota ; At-si-pl-koa: Blackfeet | Medicinal | Treat chills, fever, stomachache, pain in the chest, treat snakebite, stomach pains, stop vomiting, snakebite, anti-diarrheal, anemic blood | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 62 |
| Phaseolus vulgaris | Leguminosae | common beans | Omnicha: Dakota, Wabeni minesa:Ojibwe, Meskodi minun:Ojibwe | Main | Beans are cooked for eating | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Phragmites australis | Gramineae | common reed | NA | Technical, Medicinal, Main | Cooking tools used to weave frames for drying berries, root is used for stomach troubles, and fishing and hunting | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 394 |
| Phryma leptostachya | Phrymaceae | American lopseed | NA | Medicinal | Sore throat | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Physalis heterophylla | Solanaceae | clammy groundcherry | Tamaniolipe: Dakota, Pegatush:Omaha | Medicinal, Main | Made in to a sauce for food, treat headache, nerve problems | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Picea glauca | Pinaceae | white spruce | NA | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Twigs used as herbal steam for rheumatism, arthritis, chewing gum, sewing basket base and lid | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Pinus banksiana | Pinaceae | jack pine | giga'ndag: Ojibwe | Main | Fine sewing on canoes | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Pinus contorta | Pinaceae | lodgepole pine | Wazi:Dakota | Technical, Main | Wood used for teepee poles, fruits and leaves used to cure coughs | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Pinus resinosa | Pinaceae | red pine | abakwanugi'mug: Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal | Waterproof pitch | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 410 |
| Plantago major | Plantaginaceae | common plantain | ceca'guski bugesink: Ojibwe | Technical, Main, Medicinal | Diruetic, antiseptic, hot leaves applied to foot drew out thorns, ward off snakes, chopped fresh leaves applied for rheumatism, snake bites | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Polygala senega | Polygalaceae | Seneca snakeroot | NA | Technical, Medicinal | Convulsions, heart problems, sore mouth, sore throat, toothache, used for curing snake bites, insect stings, and other poisons | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 420 |
| Polygonatum biflorum | Asparagaceae | smooth Solomon's seal | nanibiteodekin;Ojibwe | Medicinal | Headaches, treats dropsy, sedative | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Polygonum amphibium | Polygonaceae | water knotweed | agongosi'minum: Ojibwe | Medicinal | Was used to cure pain in stomach, hunting charm to attract deer, blisters in mouth, various ailments | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Polygonum pensylvanicum | Polygonaceae | Pennsylvania smartweed | NA | Medicinal | Anti-convulsive | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Polygonum persicaria | Polygonaceae | spotted ladysthumb | NA | Medicinal | Stomach pain | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Polygonum punctatum | Polygonaceae | dotted smartweed | NA | Medicinal | Stomach pain | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 424 |
| Populus balsamifera | Salicaceae | balsam poplar | NA | Main, Medicinal, Technical | Resinous, aromatic, expectorant, heart problems, back pain, disinfectant, nosebleed, trap lure, salve on wounds | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Populus deltoides | Salicaceae | eastern cottonwood | Wuga Cha:Dakota | Medicinal, Main, Technical | For pregnant women, used to reduce inflammation, and reduce fever, diarrhea, used as a food for people, forage for horses, and was made to make poles | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Populus grandidentata | Salicaceae | bigtooth aspen | asadi:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Scrape cambium layer to obtain a food, prevent child-bearing, ease and lessen menses, hemostatic tea | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Populus tremuloides | Salicaceae | quaking aspen | NA | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Heart problems, bark for poulticing cuts reduces irritation, preservative, building item | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Potentilla arguta | Rosaceae | tall cinquefoil | Gl'Tclode'Iminidji'Bik:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Headache, stopping bleeding, convulsions | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 289, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 332, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 338; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Potentilla norvegica | Rosaceae | Norwegian cinquefoil | NA | Medicinal | Sore throat | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prenanthes alba | Compositae | white rattlesnakeroot | Weca' wus wa'ckinesck | Medicinal | Diuretic, produce postpartum milk flow | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunella vulgaris | Labiatae | common selfheal | basi'buguk: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Used for the liver, cramps and fits | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunus americana | Rosaceae | American plum | Pank-ai-da-lo:Kiowa; Omaha:kande | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Bread and cake, yellow dye, used to prepare altar, stop vomiting, sedative, worms, used for food as sauces or are dried, also reported to have been used for long periods in the winter time as a food source | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunus nigra | Rosaceae | Canadian plum | nuge sanatig: Ojibwe, bugesana'tig: Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal, Main | Food and preserves, inner bark used as dye | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunus pensylvanica | Rosaceae | pin cherry | bae wiminun: Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal, Technical | Food, jelly, sore eyes | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunus pumila | Rosaceae | sandcherry | sewakomin:Ojibwe | Main | Food | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunus serotina | Rosaceae | black cherry | sawe'min:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Tonic, sedative, pectoral, astringent, worms, twigs used in beverages, wound dressing, worms, cholera infantum, food | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Prunus virginiana | Rosaceae | chokecherry | Canpa'hu:Lakota, Nonpa-zhinga:Omaha; nahaapi nakaaruts:Pawnee | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Used in making pemmican (meat and fruit mixture) and for curing diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach pains, cramps, twigs used in beverages and syrup, fruit | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 42 |
| Psoralidium tenuiflorum | Leguminosae | slimflower scurfpea | Tichanicha-hu: Dakota , Wahpo'kijate:Lakota; Ti'canicahu tanka:Lakota | Medicinal | Root boiled to be consumed as medicine, protected the head on hot days, used for curing headaches, tuberculosis, to repel mosquitoes, and forehead protection from the sun on hot days | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 41, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 175 |
| Pteridium aquilinum | Polypodiaceae | western brackenfern | Ana ganuck:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Used for food in soup, tea for stomach cramps, and smoked for headache | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 408, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 382 |
| Pulsatilla patens | Ranunculaceae | eastern pasqueflower | Hokshi-chekpa wahcha:Dakota; Hoksi' cekpa:Lakota | Medicinal | Tea to speed delivery in childbirth, crushed and used on some injuries as a counter-irritant, is used as a counter-irritant for use in rheumatism, neuralgia, and similar diseases, lung trouble, headaches | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 36; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 340, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 336; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 28-29; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 455 |
| Pycnanthemum virginianum | Labiatae | Virginia mountainmint | NA | Medicinal | Diuretic. Twigs burned and inhaled as cold remedy. Fruits and leaves taken for coughs. Bruised leaves and berries used for headaches. Berries eaten | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301 |
| Pyrola americana | Ericaceae | American wintergreen | bine'bug: Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal | Made into tea, drank as good luck potion in the morning before hunts | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 430, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 457 |
| Pyrola elliptica | Ericaceae | waxflower shinleaf | NA | Medicinal | Poultice of plant and two other plants | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.457 |
| Quercus alba | Fagaceae | white oak | Mici min:Ojibwe, miti'gomic: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main, Technical | Acorns on them are dried and crushed to make powder, making awls to punch holes in birch bark, wigwams, decoction of root bark and inner bark taken for diarrhea | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 401, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 419; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 458-459 |
| Quercus macrocarpa | Fagaceae | bur oak | meti'gomic: Ojibwe, mitigo,mic;Ojibwe, Uskuyecha-hu:Dakota | Technical, Medicinal, Tree, Main, Toys | Bark is used with other materials to set color, bark of the root was used for bowel troubles, lung trouble, heart problems, used in treating leucorrhea and piles, decoction of root or inner bark for cramps, acorns eaten roast, boiled, or raw, dye, used as a bandage, makes toys and games (popgun pistons) | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 425, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 23, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 340, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 338, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 369, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 402, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.461 |
| Ranunculus pensylvanicus | Ranunculaceae | Pennsylvania buttercup | manwe'gons: Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal | Entire plant boiled to yield a red coloring dye, deer scent, used as hunting medicine (seeds are smoked) | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 426, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 431; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 466 |
| Ratibida columnifera | Compositae | upright prairie coneflower | Wahcha-zi chikala:Dakota; Napo'stan:Lakota; Asan'pi iya'tke:Lakota | Main, Medicinal | Cylindrical heads were used to make tea, used for curing stomach aches, headaches, side and chest pains, and to stop external wound hemorrhaging or internal bleeding, plant top used as a nipple | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 79, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 179; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 467 |
| Rhus glabra | Anacardiaceae | smooth sumac | Bakwa nak:Ojibwe, Chanzi:Dakota and Lakota, Cha-zi: Dakota, Maw-kho-la:Kiowa | Medicinal, Technical, Aromatic, Fruit and Vegetable | Root bark as a tea is used as hemostatic, blossoms used for sore eyes, fruit considered throat cleanser. Inner bark and central pith of stem used as orange dye, used in a smoking mixture, as a yellow dye, and as a tea, leaves dried for smoking, roots used as dye, fruits were boiled to make a remedy for dysmenorrhea, decoction of the root was drank in cases of urine retention, medicinal purposes, used for dye, and stems for basketry, dysentery (anti-diarrheal) | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 354 and 424, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 182, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 47-48, Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 190-192, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 344; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 469-470 |
| Ribes americanum | Saxifragaceae | American black currant | amikomin:Ojibwe, Chap-ta-haza | Main, Medicinal | Food, root used as remedy for kidney trouble | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 410, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 32; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 475-476 |
| Ribes aureum | Saxifragaceae | golden currant | Soh' kotasi-mins:Cheyenne | Main | Used as a primary source of vitamin C | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 195-196 |
| Ribes cynosbati | Saxifragaceae | eastern prickly gooseberry | me' skwacabo' minuk: Ojibwe | Main | Preserves, berries used for food | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 410, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.475 |
| Ribes oxyacanthoides | Saxifragaceae | Canadian gooseberry | cabo' minuk:Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal | Food, gynecological aid decoction of berry for back pain and "female weakness"(sickness after childbirth) | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 410, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.479 |
| Ribes triste | Saxifragaceae | red currant | Mici' tciminuk, mincitci' minuk:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Leaves used for some sort of female remedy, food (berries eaten), "stoppage of periods", | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 389, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 410; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 480 |
| Rosa arkansana | Rosaceae | prairie rose | Onzhin-zhintka:Dakota | Medicinal, Main | Headaches, used for healing burns and for treating eye problems like cataracts, inflammation, and snow blindness, cooking, anti-convulsive root diffusion or decoction taken for fits, used to make tea | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 336, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 189, Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 200, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.483 |
| Rubus idaeus | Rosaceae | American red raspberry | meskwa' min: Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal | Jams, berries eaten, recovery after childbirth, heart medicine, stops teething sickness, dysentery | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 410; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 488-489; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 344 |
| Rubus occidentalis | Rosaceae | black raspberry | Takahecha, taken heche, | Medicinal, Main | Eat fruit and used in tea, diarrhea, stomaches, hemorrhage, hemophilia, speed childbirth, back pain, wash for sore eye, treats female weakness | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 32, Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.276; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 490 |
| Rudbeckia hirta | Compositae | blackeyed Susan | NA | Medicinal | Diuretic, used for babies | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 365; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 494 |
| Rudbeckia laciniata | Compositae | cutleaf coneflower | NA | Medicinal | Indigestion | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342 |
| Rumex crispus | Polygonaceae | curly dock | ciobug: Ojibwe, Shiakipi:Dakota | Technical, Medicinal, Main | Planting charm, used for closing and healing cuts, the leaves where used as food, stops swelling, anti-diarrheal | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 431, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 381, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 25; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 496-497 |
| Rumex venosus | Polygonaceae | veiny dock | ma'I tuk ohc, wahpe' sku'ya | Medicinal, Ornamental | Red dye, yellow dye, stomach cramps, diarrhea, hemorrhage, tea, colds, sore throat, used to expel the childbirth | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.278; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 499 |
| Sagittaria cuneata | Alismataceae | arumleaf arrowhead | Wabasi' Pin:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Main | Digestion aid, used as medicine for humans and horses. Food for ducks & geese. Corms eaten, can be eaten, also used as a remedy for indigestion | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 500; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 353 |
| Sagittaria latifolia | Alismataceae | broadleaf arrowhead | Pshitola:Dakota | Medicinal, Main | Tubers were used as food, prepared by boiling. Infusion of leaves used to bathe feverish babies used for food (sweet nectar) and as medicine | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 13; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 500-501 |
| Salix candida | Salicaceae | sageleaf willow | NA | Medicinal, aromatic and psychoactive | Plant used for stomach troubles, used to ease trembling, used for fainting, decoction of inner bark taken for coughs | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 501-502 |
| Salix discolor | Salicaceae | pussy willow | NA | Medicinal, technical, aromatic and psychoactive | Infusion of inner bark for diarrhea, stomach troubles, trembling, fainting. Fiber from barks used for baskets and rope. Makes tools | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 502 |
| Salix eriocephala | Salicaceae | Missouri River willow | NA | Technical | Wood used to make canes and staffs | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 503 |
| Salix exigua | Salicaceae | narrowleaf willow | NA | Technical | Branches used for building sweat lodges, leaves woven into mats and used in sweat tepees, peeled bark used for tie together sweat lodge poles | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 503 |
| Salix fragilis | Salicaceae | crack willow | sizingo' bimic | Medicinal | Bark for poulticing cuts, dermatological aid | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 388, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 503 |
| Salix humilis | Salicaceae | prairie willow | Wahpe-popa:Dakota | Technical | Used as a dye, and in making furniture, mats, baskets, drums, stirrups, tent pegs, and many other things | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 194 |
| Salix interior | Salicaceae | sandbar willow | NA | Technical | Used to weave baskets, stems used for jar stoppers, fish roasting sticks, tie fastener | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 21, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 504 |
| Salix lucida | Salicaceae | shining willow | azisi'gobmic: Ojibwe, zigo'bamic | Technical, Medicinal | Smoking mixture, topical for healing sores, anti-diarrhea | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 422, 388, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 505 |
| Salix pedicellaris | Salicaceae | bog willow | sizinga' bamic | Medicinal | Bark cured stomach trouble, helps with gastrointestinal problems | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 389, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 505 |
| Sambucus nigra | Adoxaceae | black elderberry | NA | Main, Medicinal | The fruit were used as food, foliage and roots are poisonous, but fruit can be eaten raw or made into wine or jelly, emetic | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 63; Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 249 |
| Sambucus racemosa | Adoxaceae | red elderberry | Papaskatciksi:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Purgative, used as a dye | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 360 |
| Sanguinaria canadensis | Papaveraceae | bloodroot | minigathe maka wau, meskwa'djibikuk: Ojibwe | Technical, medicinal | Used as a dye, analgesic compound | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 31, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 426, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 515 |
| Sanicula marilandica | Umbelliferae | Maryland sanicle | masan, gine'big odji' bik:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Root is used to cure snake bite, used in tea for fevers, nervous disorders, cutaneous affections and erysipelas | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 391, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 517 |
| Schizachyrium scoparium | Gramineae | little bluestem | NA | Technical | Used as insulation for moccasins | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.521 |
| Schoenoplectus acutus | Cyperaceae | hardstem bulrush | NA | Medicinal, Technical | Stop bleeding | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 521 |
| Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani | Cyperaceae | softstem bulrush | Psa:Dakota, jika'miuskun: Ojibwe | Main, Medicinal, Technical | Used as a emetic and mats, the stem was eaten raw, and also weaved to make mats | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 523; Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 17, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 418 |
| Scirpus cyperinus | Cyperaceae | woolgrass | gaie'wuckuk: Ojibwe | Technical | Used to make mats and woven bags and baskets | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 418, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 522 |
| Scutellaria galericulata | Labiatae | marsh skullcap | tcatcabonu;Ojibwe | Medicinal | Helps with heart troubles | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 372, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 524 |
| Scutellaria lateriflora | Labiatae | blue skullcap | NA | Medicinal | Diarrhea, monthly period, breast treatment | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.279, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 524 |
| Shepherdia argentea | Elaeagnaceae | silver buffaloberry | Mashtincha-pute: Dakota | Medicinal, Main | Fruits use fresh in season and dry for winter. Also used for a ceremonial feast, mild laxative, ate berries, ceremonial medicine | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 54; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.281, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 528 |
| Shepherdia canadensis | Elaeagnaceae | russet buffaloberry | NA | Medicinal | Coughing up blood | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 528 |
| Silene latifolia | Caryophyllaceae | bladder campion | Basi buguk:Ojibwe/basi' buguk | Medicinal | Cathartic | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 361; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 531 |
| Silphium laciniatum | Compositae | compassplant | Chashishida:Dakota | Medicinal | Burned during electrical storms to prevent lightning stroke. Also used by children as chewing gum | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 80 |
| Silphium perfoliatum | Compositae | cup plant | asasa'weskuk | Medicinal | Root stock was used in the smoke treatment for cold in the head, neuralgia, and rheumatism, stoppage of periods, back and chest pains | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 80, Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 365, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 340, Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 250, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 531 |
| Sium suave | Umbelliferae | hemlock waterparsnip | wanemingons:Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Orthopedic and gastrointestinal aid, ward off evil spirits | Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 533; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 431 |
| Smilax herbacea | Smilacaceae | smooth carrionflower | gine;Ojibwe | Medicinal, Fruits and Vegetables | Dermatological aid, roots used for lung trouble, kidney trouble, used as a fruit to eat, said to relieve hoarseness, back pain and orthopedic aid | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 374, Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 346, Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 19, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 534 |
| Solanum triflorum | Solanaceae | cutleaf nightshade | Canhlogan Skiski'ta:Lakota; Omaka-tane-wan:Blackfeet; De:petetsi:Comanche | Medicinal | Treatment of stomachache, diarrhea, tuberculosis, and general tonic | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 206 |
| Solanum tuberosum | Solanaceae | Irish potato | opin:Ojibwe | Main | Food | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 410 |
| Solidago canadensis | Compositae | Canada goldenrod | NA | Medicinal | Burn dressing compound | Moerman,D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 536 |
| Solidago flexicaulis | Compositae | zigzag goldenrod | NA | Medicinal | Sore throat | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 536 |
| Solidago speciosa | Compositae | showy goldenrod | NA | Medicinal | Lung trouble, lung hemorrhages, cathartic, hemorrhaging of the mouth | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 340, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 537 |
| Sorbus americana | Rosaceae | American mountain ash | NA | Main | Fruit | Moerman,D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 538 |
| Spartina pectinata | Gramineae | prairie cordgrass | NA | Technical | Used as earth covering for lodges | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 14 |
| Sphaeralcea coccinea | Malvaceae | scarlet globemallow | Heyoka ta pezhuta: Dakota | Main, Medicinal | This tree was also used for sugar making by tribes, sap is mixed with sugar maple sap to drink as a beverage. Cooling and healing salve, and a temporary immunity to scalding water | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 49; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 353, 394; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 39; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 208 |
| Sporobolus cryptandrus | Gramineae | sand dropseed | NA | Main | Used to make flour, porridge, and other bread related items | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 234 |
| Sporobolus heterolepis | Gramineae | prairie dropseed | NA | Medicinal | Dermatological aid | Moerman,D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 542 |
| Symphoricarpos albus | Caprifoliaceae | common snowberry | Anigomiji:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Used to clear up the after birth, diuretic compound | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 361; Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 547 |
| Symphoricarpos occidentalis | Caprifoliaceae | western snowberry | NA | Medicinal | Wash weak or inflamed eyes | Moerman,D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 546 |
| Symphyotrichum cordifolium | Compositae | common blue wood aster | naskosi'icus: Ojibwe | Technical | Hunting charms | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 428 |
| Symphyotrichum novae-angliae | Compositae | New England aster | NA | Medicinal | Tea used as enema for babies with gas pains or intestinal trouble | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 60; Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 287 |
| Tanacetum vulgare | Compositae | common tansy | muckiki'wit: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Fever medicine, flower used for hunting lure, sore throat | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 366, p. 429, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 549 |
| Taraxacum officinale | Compositae | common dandelion | wesa'usakwunek, Weca waskwune: Ojibwe | Medicinal, Vegetable | Tea for heartburn, cooking with pork or venison | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 366, p.399 , Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 550 |
| Thalictrum dasycarpum | Ranunculaceae | purple meadow-rue | Wazimna:Dakota | Aromatic and Psychoactive, Technical | The fruits gave a nice smell, the hollowed roots were made into flutes | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 28, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 554 |
| Thuja occidentalis | Cupressaceae | arborvitae | gi'jig: Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal | Canoe frames and ribs, convulsions | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 421, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 557 |
| Tilia americana | Malvaceae | American basswood | wigub: Ojibwe, Hita-cha: Dakota | Technical | Tying poles together for framework of wigwam | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 422, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 562 |
| Toxicodendron pubescens | Anacardiaceae | Atlantic poison oak | Animiki bug:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Poulticing swellings | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 354 |
| Tradescantia occidentalis | Commelinaceae | prairie spiderwort | NA | Main | Edible | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 217-219, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p.565 |
| Typha latifolia | Typhaceae | broadleaf cattail | Wihuta-hu:Dakota, Ojibwe | Medicinal, Technical | Used to treat burns, used as a weapon of war, seeds used for stuffing mattresses, leaves for wind and rain proof mats | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 12,Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 573 |
| Ulmus americana | Ulmaceae | American elm | Pe:Dakota | Technical | Wood used for fuel, forked trees where used for post of lodges, used as mortars | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 23, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 576 |
| Ulmus rubra | Ulmaceae | slippery elm | NA | Medicinal, Technical | Sore throat, laxative, used as spark catcher | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 342 |
| Ulmus thomasii | Ulmaceae | rock elm | Pe Itazipa:Dakota | Technical | Used for saddle trees | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 23, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 578 |
| Urtica dioica | Urticaceae | stinging nettle | masan: Ojibwe | Technical, Medicinal | The fibers were used for making rope, clothes and twine, dysentery, stoppage of urine, bark and rind used as sewing fiber, leaves were soaked and used as poultice for heat rashes | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 25, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 580; Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 423 |
| Uvularia grandiflora | Colchicaceae | largeflower bellwort | wasawabi;Ojibwe | Medicinal | Used for stomach troubles | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 374, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 582 |
| Uvularia sessilifolia | Colchicaceae | sessileleaf bellwort | neweia'kwisink: Ojibwe | Technical | Used as bait for deer | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 430 |
| Verbascum thapsus | Scrophulariaceae | common mullein | NA | Medicinal | Smoke for relieving asthma | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 390, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 590 |
| Verbena hastata | Verbenaceae | swamp verbena | Chanhaloga Pezhuta: Dakota | Medicinal | Leaves were boiled to make a stomach remedy | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 59, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 591 |
| Veronicastrum virginicum | Plantaginaceae | Culver's root | NA | Medicinal | Cholagogue, cathartic, tea from roots used for many medicinal and spiritual uses such as strengthening the weak | Densmore, F. (2005) Strength of the Earth, p. 301; Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p. 215, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 593 |
| Viburnum dentatum | Adoxaceae | southern arrowwood | wabanwe'ak: Ojibwe | Main | Bark is used | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 417 |
| Viburnum lentago | Adoxaceae | nannyberry | Atite taminun:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Diuretic | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 361, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 594 |
| Viburnum opulus | Adoxaceae | European cranberrybush | Anibumi nugawuck:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Used to cure cramps in the stomach, antispasmodic for asthma, hysteria, puerperal | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 361, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 595 |
| Viola canadensis | Violaceae | Canadian white violet | NA | Medicinal | Blood purifier, remedy for chronic infections of the lung, and skin diseases | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 392, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 597 |
| Viola labradorica | Violaceae | alpine violet | wewaie' bugug:Ojibwe | Medicinal | Whole plant used in tea for heart trouble | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 392, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 597 |
| Viola pedatifida | Violaceae | prairie violet | NA | Main | Spice | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 220 |
| Vitis vulpina | Vitaceae | frost grape | ci'we minun, ciwiminaga wunj:Ojibwe, Chippewa | Medicinal, Main | Twigs were used in tea for afterbirth effects in women, sap was used for stomach and bowel trouble, jelly | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 392, p. 411, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 599 |
| Vulpia octoflora | Gramineae | sixweeks fescue | NA | Main | Grain crop, used until corn matured | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 231 |
| Xanthium strumarium | Compositae | rough cocklebur | sakati'komuk | Medicinal | Diuretic | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 366, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 602 |
| Yucca glauca | Asparagaceae | soapweed yucca | hupe'stola:Lakota, hupestula:Dakota | Main, Medicinal, Technical | Stalks were eaten like asparagus, petals were used in salads, immature fruits were used for food, used as soap, tea from roots used for stomach aches and labor pains | Kindscher, K. (1997) Edible wild plants of the prairie, p. 224, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 607 |
| Zanthoxylum americanum | Rutaceae | common pricklyash | Hakusits: Pawnee | Technical, Medicinal | Young men used the fruits as a perfume, also given to horses in the case of retention of urine, treats coughs, tuberculosis, fever, sore throat, toothache | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 46, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 609 |
| Zea mays | Gramineae | corn | Manda min:Ojibwe | Main | Corn has many uses | Smith, H.H. (1932) Ethnobotany of the Ojibwe Indians, p. 403, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 610 |
| Zigadenus venenosus | Melanthiaceae | meadow deathcamas | e cramps | Medicinal | Apply to leg aches, swollen knees, burns, rattlesnake bites, venereal disease | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.287, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 613 |
| Zizania aquatica | Gramineae | annual wildrice | Psi:Dakota, Mano min: Ojibwe | Main | Used as a cereal was | Gilmore, M.R. (1991) Uses of plants by the Indians of Missouri River region, p. 15, Moerman, D.E. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany, p. 614 |
| Zizia aurea | Umbelliferae | golden zizia | NA | Medicinal | Treat fevers, headaches | Kindscher, K. (1992) Medicinal wild plants of the prairie, p.288 |
| Scientific name | Family | English common name | Native common names | General use | Specific uses | Reference |