Medicinal natural herbs you need to know about when SHTF

Native Americans used a variety of herbal medicines for treating a plethora of illnesses. An article published in AskaPrepper.com listed 23 of the most commonly-used plants in the arsenal of Native American medicine.

Blackberry – These antioxidant-rich berries were commonly used by the Cherokee people to treat an upset stomach. Blackberry tea is used to relieve swollen tissue and joints, and treat diarrhea. Blackberry root mixed with honey or maple syrup is a potent, all-natural cough syrup.

Mint – The Cherokee brewed mint tea to relieve digestion problems.

Yarrow – Ancient Greeks used yarrow to stem excess bleeding. The pioneers and Aborigines also used the plant as a poultice applied directly on open wounds to promote blood clotting.

Rosemary – This plant is considered sacred among Native American tribes. They used the plant as an analgesic to ease sore joints, muscle pain and spasms. Rosemary is also used to improve memory and boost the circulatory, immune, and nervous system.

Sumac – While the plant has many uses, Native American healers primarily used it for treating eye problems. It is also used as a gargle for sore throat.

Black gum bark – The Cherokee people used to brew mild tea from twigs and black gum bark to ease chest pain.

Cattail – Known as the "supermarket of the swamp," cattails are an excellent food source among the Native Americans. The plant’s easily digestible parts make it an ideal recovery food.

Red clover – Native American healers used red clover to treat inflammation and respiratory conditions.

Wild rose – Wild rose is used for the treatment of the common cold. The Native Americans also used this plant as a mild diuretic, while a petal infusion is used to cure sore throat.

Greenbriar – This plant is also known as "pull out a sticker." Brewed greenbriar root is an excellent blood purifier for relieving joint pain.

Buck Brush – Also known as "hummingbird blossom," Native Americans used this plant to treat a plethora of diseases such as mouth and throat conditions, inflammation, cysts and fibriod tumors.

Wild ginger – This plant is commonly used to treat earache and ear infection.

Saw palmetto – Native American healers used this plant to relieve abdominal pain, and to promote appetite and digestion.

Sage – Just like rosemary, sage is considered a sacred plant among Native Americans. They used this plant to treat abdominal cramps, spasms, colds, and flu.
Prickly pear cactus – Poultice made from mature cactus pads relieves wounds, burns and boils.