The Native Americans lived among a pharmacopeia of medicinal herbs, many of which
are still used today. Among the more common
to Montana is the wild licorice root. The plant
was especially useful to Montana tribes, who recognized the roots of the plant's value as a food
source. In addition, the Blackfeet used it as a
poultice for ear aches, while the Lakota chewed
it to relief tooth pain. Even now it is a popular
additive in cough syrups.
Yarrow, which grows on slopes and disturbed
ground, was used variously to treat boils, burns,
pimples and a variety of skin ailments as well as
fevers, colds, and upset stomachs when taken
internally as a tea.
The root which the Crow and many other
Native tribes use in their sweat lodges is the Bear
Root. When cut into pieces and thrown over the
fire, it produces aromatic sparkles. It's also used
medicinally, as an infusion for bodily aches.
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Yarrow
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