Medicinal Plants: A Closer Look at Native American Healing in Montana

4 min readNov 2, 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using medicinal plants by Native Americans for healing purposes. This interest can be attributed to dissatisfaction with Western medicine and its focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing the root cause of ailments. Rising healthcare costs and the dominance of pharmaceutical companies have also fueled this curiosity. While Western medicine has undoubtedly improved our lives, some individuals seek a more natural approach to health and turn to Native American traditions for guidance.

The Diversity of Native American Medicine

It is essential to acknowledge that traditional medicine varied significantly among Native American tribes. Pre-Columbian America was home to around 500 nations, each with its language, customs, and healing practices. For this blog article, we will focus on the medicinal plants used by the Blackfoot tribe in Montana, a region known for its rich Native American heritage.

The Blackfoot Tribe’s Medicinal Plants

The Blackfoot tribe in Montana has been actively preserving its traditional culture and knowledge, including medicinal plants. Their efforts to pass down this wisdom to future generations have resulted in the creation of informative pamphlets highlighting various plants’ therapeutic properties. Here are some of the medicinal plants historically used by the Blackfoot tribe:

Peppermint

Peppermint leaves were dried and brewed into a tea to alleviate stomach pain and nausea. This aromatic herb was valued for its soothing properties and was a common remedy used by the Blackfoot tribe.

Raspberry

The dried leaves of the raspberry plant are also used to make tea. This tea served as an antioxidant and muscle and blood vessel relaxant. The Blackfoot tribe recognized the healing potential of raspberry and incorporated it into their medicinal practices.

Valerian Root

When dried and brewed into a tea, Valerian root was used to combat anxiety and promote restful sleep. The Blackfoot tribe valued this root for its calming effects, providing a natural remedy for those seeking relief from stress and sleeplessness.

Willow Bark

The Blackfoot tribe, like many other Native American tribes, utilized willow bark as a painkiller. The inner bark, when dried, was consumed to alleviate various types of pain. Modern science has identified salicin, a chemical similar to aspirin, in willow bark, validating its analgesic properties.

Blue Root

Blueroot, with its dry roots, can be made for tea. Did the Blackfoot tribe employ another plant as a painkiller? Like willow bark, blue root offers a natural alternative for managing discomfort and promoting well-being.

Licorice Root

The Blackfoot tribe commonly used dried licorice roots to reduce swelling in the stomach and throat. This plant possessed anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable addition to their medicinal repertoire.

Yarrow

Yarrow played a significant role in Native American healing practices. The Blackfoot tribe used yarrow for blood-clotting and to treat coughing, colds, and throat irritation. Its versatility made it a prevalent choice among Native American tribes.

Chokecherry

Chokecherry, a plant abundant in the Great Plains and Rocky Mountain region, was utilized by the Blackfoot tribe to treat diarrhea and cleanse the bowels. Its medicinal properties make it a valuable resource for maintaining digestive health.

Sweetgrass

Sweetgrass held a prominent position in Native American rituals and healing practices. It was often burned as a form of purification and consumed as a tea to relieve coughs. The Blackfoot tribe recognized the therapeutic potential of sweetgrass and incorporated it into their traditional medicine.

Red Osier Dogwood

The Blackfoot tribe utilized different parts of the red osier dogwood plant for various medicinal purposes. The berries acted as a laxative, the leaves treated stomach, liver, and kidney issues, and the bark alleviated chest colds. This versatile plant offers multiple healing benefits.

Alumroot

Alumroot, known for its healing properties, was used by the Blackfoot tribe as a tea to ease coughs and chest pains. Additionally, it was applied as a paste to promote the healing of cuts and sores. Alumroot’s versatility made it a valuable asset in their medicinal practices.

Biscuit Root

Biscuit root was significant among the Blackfoot tribe, serving as a go-to plant for various ailments. It was used to address sinus and chest conditions and was consumed by individuals experiencing general weakness. The Blackfoot tribe recognized the rejuvenating properties of biscuit root.

While the plants mentioned above provide a glimpse into the medicinal practices of the Blackfoot tribe, there are numerous other medicinal plants employed by Native Americans throughout history. It is crucial to approach the use of these plants with caution and respect. Before attempting to utilize wild plants for medicinal purposes, it is essential to accurately identify them, as many similar-looking varieties can be poisonous.

Furthermore, it is important to note that Native American medicine encompassed not only the use of plants but also rituals and ceremonies. Maintaining good health requires adherence to specific practices and an active and natural lifestyle. These factors contributed to the well-being of those who followed Native American healing traditions.

Conclusion

The use of medicinal plants by Native Americans, including the Blackfoot tribe in Montana, offers valuable insights into alternative approaches to healing. While Western medicine has undeniably improved our lives, the allure of natural remedies and traditional practices continues to captivate individuals seeking a more holistic approach to health. By exploring the wisdom of Native American healing traditions, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants.

Remember, if you decide to incorporate these plants into your health routine, exercise caution and seek guidance from experts in herbal medicine. As we delve into medicinal plants, let us embrace the wisdom of the Blackfoot tribe and other Native American cultures, honoring their traditions and preserving their knowledge for generations to come.