• EVPP 646 Wetland Ecology and Management- by Katherine Labuhn and Changwoo Ahn (Fall 2013)
  • Edible
  • Medicinal
  • By Physiographic Province
  • References
This page includes information about the medicinal use of wetlands plants by Native American groups.  One important issue of note is the difference in purpose or effect for some Native American uses of plants.  As Moerman notes in his work "Native American Medicinal Plants" some plants were used by Native Americans to treat things like kidney issues by inducing urination.  A plant may well result in increased urination in which case the plant would be considered efficacious by Native standards.  By Western standards the plant may not be seen as efficacious if there is no change in the kidney condition but the plant did do what was expected.

Additionally, this website is for entertainment purposes only.  Please consult a licensed medical professional before using any of these plants to treat any illness.

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Acer saccharinum
Silver Maple

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of bark taken for cramps, dysentery, hives, measles, cough gonorrhea
Inner bark boiled and used with water as eye wash and also for running sores and for diarrhea
Compound infusion of bark taken for “female trouble” and as a diuretic


Photo credit: unnamed author @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Acorus calamus
Sweet Flag

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of roots taken for stomach gas
Infusion of ground roots taken for colds, sometimes mixed with chokecherry
Infusion of roots taken after childbirth and for symptoms of menopause
Infusion of ground roots and pepperroot taken for heart disease
Poultice of roots applied for cramps and applied to toothaches
                                            Root chewed and juice swallowed for diarrhea
                                            Used as a diuretic
                                            Infusion of roots used for bowel problems and as a laxative
                                            Infusion of plants used for bronchial trouble, earache
                                            Decoction of rootstock used for whooping cough, sore throat, lower back pain, venereal disease
                                            Root compound taken for suppressed menses
                                            Compound infusion of roots taken for tapeworms
                                            Infusion of root taken for high blood pressure and diabetes
                                            Root used for cholera, smallpox and other epidemics
                                            
Photo credit: JF Gaffard @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Alisma subcordatum
American Water Plantain

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used as a poultice on old sores, wounds, bruises, swellings and ulcers
Root used for bowel complaints


Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Andropogon glomeratus
Bushy Bluestem

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots used for backaches
Infusion of roots applied to poison ivy rash to calm itch
Compound poultice with roots applied as salve to hemorrhoids


Photo credit: Forest & Kim Starr @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Arisaema triphyllum
Jack in the Pulpit

Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of root used for headaches and skin diseases
Used to relieve gas
Taken for colds and dry coughs
Poultice of boiled and beaten roots and mixed with meal and applied to sores
Used as a liniment and a stimulant
                                           Infusion used for throat irritations
                                           Decoction of root used for eye wash
                                           Decoction of plant given to children for diarrhea
                                           Hot poultice of plant applied to bruises and for lameness
                                           Compound used for insomnia
                                           Root used for rattlesnake bite

Photo credit: Daniel Schwen @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Arundinaria gigantea
Giant Cane

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of roots taken for breast pain, also to stimulate kidneys and “renew strength”







Photo credit: Ted Bodner, James H Miller @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Asclepias incarnata
Swamp Milkweed

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of roots used as a strengthening bath for children and adults
Cold infusion of roots used to heal a baby’s navel
                                                     Decoction of plant taken for the kidneys, some groups used it for too much urine production and
                                                     some for too little urine production
                                                     Root used to induce vomiting and as a diuretic

Photo credit: Nelson DeBarros @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Betula nigra
River Birch

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Leaves chewed or infusion taken for dysentery
Infusion taken for colds
Infusion or decoction of bark taken for the stomach
Infusion or decoction of bark taken for difficult urination, “milky urine”

Photo credit: SEWIlco @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Bidens coronata
Large Fruit Beggarticks

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of roots taken for sun sickness: eye disease, headache, high fever and diarrhea
Infusion of roots for fire sickness: fever and body aches
Infusion of whole plant taken and used as a bath for mist sickness: eye disease, fever and chills

Photo credit: Choess @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Caltha palustris
Yellow Marsh Marigold

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Plant and/or raw leaves considered poisonous by some groups
Decoction of roots taken for colds, specifically to cause sweating, expel mucous and cause vomiting
Poultice of boiled and mashed roots applied to sores
Compound decoction of leaves and stalks taken as a diuretic
Compound decoction of root taken during pregnancy
                                            Infusion of leaves taken for constipation

Photo credit: Jeffdelonge @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Campanula aparinoides
Marsh Bellflower

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of stems taken by young women to induce childbirth

Photo credit: Superior National Forest @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Cardamine douglassii
Purple Bittercress

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of smashed roots to counteract any kind of poison




Photo credit: public domain

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Carex prasina
Drooping sedge

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction taken to induce vomiting or “when stomach is bad from an unknown cause”

Photo credit: Eric Epstein, WDNR @ dnr.wi.gov

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Celtis laevigata
Sugarberry

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of bark taken for sore throat
Compound decoction of bark with powdered shells taken for venereal disease

Photo credit: public domain

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Cephalanthus occidentalis
Button Bush

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of warmed roots applied to head for eye troubles, decoction of bark used as a wash for sore eyes
Decoction of bark used for dysentery
Root and bark used for fever
Bark chewed for toothache
Decoction of roots for hemorrhages, rheumatism, enlarged muscles
Inner bark used to induce vomiting
                                                   Decoction of bark taken for headache

Photo credit: User:BotBln @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Chaerophyllum procumbens
Spreading Chervil

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poisonous root used to induce vomiting







Photo credit: public domain

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Chelone glabra
White Turtlehead

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of roots and cedar bark used as a medicinal tea
Infusion of blooms taken for worms, fevers, as a laxative
Used for sores or skin eruptions, taken to increase appetite
Compound decoction of roots taken for too much bile
                                                 Infusion of plants used to prevent pregnancy

Photo credit: Michael Wolf @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Cicuta maculata
Water Hemlock

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots considered poisonous by some groups, was chewed to commit suicide by some groups
Roots chewed and swallowed for four days by women as contraception and to induce permanent sterility
Dried root powdered and made into a liniment to apply externally
                                                              Poultice of smashed roots applied for lameness, running sores or cuts
                                                              Decoction of plants used on bruises, sprains, sore joints or broke bones

Photo credit: Choess @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Cinna arundinacea
Wood Reedgrass

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound decoction taken for diabetes


Photo credit: public domain

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Cyperus esculentus
Chufa

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots chewed for colds and coughs
Poultice of roots applied to snakebites

Photo credit: User: Blahedo @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Distichlis spicata
Seashore Saltgrass

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of plant taken “when the heart beats fast”, also as a laxative
Cold infusion of plant taken for gonorrhea
Decoction of salt cooked into a gum, held in the mouth and allowed to melt for bad cold or for loss of appetite



Photo credit: Forest & Kim Starr @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Drosera capillaris
Pink Sundew

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Sticky, plant glands rubbed on ringworm sores





Photo credit: H Zell @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Drosera rotundifolia
Roundleaf Sundew

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Plant used for corns, warts and bunions





Photo credit: GFDL @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Dryopteris cristata
Crested Woodfern

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of root used for stomach trouble





Photo credit: Kristian Peters @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Elodea canadensis
Broad water weed

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of plant taken to induce vomiting

Photo credit: Christian Fischer @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Equisetum hymale var. affine
Scouring Rush Horsetail                

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of plant taken for kidney problems and inability to urinate
Infusion of plant used as an eye wash
Decoction of plant taken for backache
Compound decoction of roots taken for gonorrhea

Photo credit: Joseph A. Marcus @ wildflower.org

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Eryngium aquaticum
Marsh Coyote Thistle

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of plant taken to induce vomiting
Root used as an “anti-poison” good for snakebite
Roots used as a diuretic, expectorant and as a stimulant also for tapeworms and pinworms
Plant used to treat gonorrhea and roots used alone and in combination to treat venereal diseases

Photo credit: Kenneth Lawless @ vaplantatlas.org

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Eupatorium maculatum
Spotted Joe Pye Weed

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont
Native American usage:
Taken for menstrual disorders and to facilitate recovery after childbirth
 Infusion of plant taken to induce vomiting
 Root used as an “anti-poison” good for snakebite and for rheumatism
                                                               Roots used as a diuretic, expectorant and as a stimulant also for tapeworms and pinworms
                                                               Plant used to treat gonorrhea and roots used alone and in combination to treat venereal diseases
                                                               Compound infusion of roots taken for liver sickness and for kidney trouble
                                                               Infusion of roots taken for colds, chills and fever

Photo credit: Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA NRCS. 1995. Northeast wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. Northeast National Technical Center, Chester

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Eupatorium perfoliatum
Boneset

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used to mend bones
Infusion taken for colds, sore throat, chills and fever, stomach medicine
Used as a tonic, to induce vomiting, as a diuretic
Root used to correct irregular menses
Poultice of chewed plants applied to rattlesnake bites
Poultice of smashed plants applied for headaches, for typhoid
Infusion of roots used as a wash and a poultice for syphilis sores
Plant used for hemorrhoids
                                                 Compound decoction of roots taken for the kidneys, pneumonia and pleurisy
                                                 Compound decoction of flowers and leaves taken as a laxative and to expel worms
                                                
Photo credit: R.A. Howard @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Eupatorium pilosum
Rough Boneset

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used for “breast complaints”, for colds, as a laxative, as a tonic and to increase urination





Photo credit: Gary P. Fleming DCR-DNH @ vaplantatlas.org

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Eupatorium purpureum
Sweet Scented Joe Pye Weed

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Root used for rheumatism, as a diuretic, for “female troubles”, gout and dropsy
Compound decoction taken for “difficult urination”
Vapors from infusion of plant top inhaled for colds
Plant used to counteract bad effects of a miscarriage
Infusion of roots taken as a laxative
                                            Compound decoction of root taken after childbirth “for internal healing”
                                            Decoction taken for arrow wounds
                                            Root used as a strengthening wash for infants
                                            Poultice of fresh leaves applied to burns

Photo credit: Kurt Stuber @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Fraxinus nigra
Black Ash

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont
Native American usage:
Tonic of inner bark used for liver and stomach
Infusion of bark taken for painful urination
Compound infusion of roots and bark used as a foot soak for rheumatism
Compound infusion of roots used as ear drops
Compound decoction of bark taken as a laxative
Infusion of inner bark applied to sore eyes
                                         Compound decoction of roots and bark used to induce pregnancy

Photo credit: public domain

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Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Green Ash

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of inner bark used for depression and for fatigue




Photo credit: Chris Hartman @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Galium asprellum
Rough Bedstraw

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used as a diuretic, for measles and to cause sweating




Photo credit: public domain

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Gentiana saponaria
Soapwort Gentian

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Simple or compound decoction taken as a tonic

Photo credit: Chris Hartman @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Glyceria obtusa
Atlantic Manna Grass

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots beaten and made into an infusion for backache





Photo credit: Gary P. Fleming DCR-DNH @ vaplantatlas.org

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Helenium autumnale
Common Sneezeweed

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound infusion of roots used to prevent menstruation after childbirth
Powdered dry leaves used to induce sneezing
                                                         Infusion of stems used as a wash for fever
                                                        Simple or compound snuff of flowers caused sneezing to clear a stuffy head cold
                                                        Infusion of florets taken or stomach problems

Photo credit: R.A. Howard @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Helianthus giganteus
Tall Sunflower

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Dried powder used to induce sneezing







Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky

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Heteranthera reniformis
Kidney Leaf Mud Plantain

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Hot root poultice applied to inflamed wounds and sores

Photo credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Huperzia lucidula
Shining Clubmoss

Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound used for neck sores and for when the “blood is bad”
Used by women for colds due to suppressed menstruation


Photo credit: Patrick J. Alexander @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Hydrocotyle umbellate
Pennywort

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots or plants used for “turtle sickness”: trembling short breath and cough



Photo credit: public domain

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Ilex verticillata
Winterberry

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of bark taken to induce vomiting, as a physic, for biliousness and for hay fever
Bark used for diarrhea




Photo credit: Jeff McMillian @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Impatiens capensis
Touch Me Not 
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of crushed stems and leaves applied to skin for rash and eczema
Juice rubbed on sores, ivy poisoning, and mosquito bites and the head for headache
Infusion of roots used for babies with hives
Crushed leaves rubbed on children’s “sour stomach”
Decoction taken and a wash used to aid in childbirth
Infusion of leaves taken for measles and for jaundice
                                          Compound decoction of plants taken and used as a wash for liver spots
                                          Infusion of roots taken as a diuretic
                                          Poultice of smashed stems applied to sore or raw eyelids
                                          Cold infusion taken for fever
                                          Infusion of plant used for liniment for sprains or bruises and for stomach cramps
                                          Poultice of crushed buds applied to burns

Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Impatiens pallida
Spotted Touch Me Not

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of crushed stems and leaves applied to skin for rash and eczema
Juice rubbed on sores, ivy poisoning, and mosquito bites
Infusion of roots used for babies with hives
Crushed leaves rubbed on children’s “sour stomach”
Decoction taken and a wash used to aid in childbirth
Infusion of leaves taken for measles
                                           Cold infusion taken for fever
                                           Poultice applied to breast injuries

Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Iris versicolor
Blue Flag

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of smashed roots applied to burns and wounds
Poultice of root applied to swelling, sores
Plant used to increase bile flow
Roots used for rheumatism, kidney disorders, liver disorders, scrofula, cold, lung trouble
Root used for cholera
Poultice of crushed rhizomes applied for blood poisoning caused by contusions
                                          Poultice of plant and flour applied to painful sites
                                          Pulverized root mixed with water and used for earache and to medicate eye water
                                          Infusion of smashed roots taken to induce pregnancy
                                          Compound decoction with roots taken for hay fever

Photo credit: Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Iris virginica
Virginia Blue Flag

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Root pulverized and compounded into a decoction and made into a salve for ulcers
Infusion taken for the liver
Root compounded into a decoction for “yellowish” urine



Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky

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Juncus effuses
Soft Rush

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction taken to induce vomiting and to “dislodge spoiled saliva”
Infusion used as a wash to prevent lameness in children and to strength babies




Photo credit: James Lindsey at Ecology of Commanstart @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Laportea Canadensis
Canada Wood Nettle

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction taken for fever
Infusion of smashed roots taken to help childbirth and for tuberculosis
Infusion of roots used as a diuretic, for incontinence and other urinary ailments




Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Lemna trisulca
Duckweed (Trisulca)

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of wet plant (along with other plants) applied to swellings

Photo credit: GFDL @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Leucothoe xillaris
Dog Hobble

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion used for “shifting pains”
Compound decoction of leaf used for rheumatism
Infusion of leaves and stems used to treat itches from scratches




Photo credit: R.A. Howard @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Lindera benzoin
Spicebush

Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Taken for female problems
Taken for colds, coughs and croup
                                                             Infusion of bark taken for measles
                                                             Plant used to induce vomiting
                                                             Infusion of branches taken and steam bath used to cause sweating to relieve aches
                                                             Compound decoction of roots taken for gonorrhea and syphilis

Photo credit: Cody Hough college student and photographer in the Michigan area @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal Flower

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound taken for pain, poultice of crushed leaves used for headache
Infusion of roots taken for worms and for stomach trouble
Infusion of leaf taken for colds and fever
Infusion snuffed to stop nosebleed
Used to treat croup and syphilis
Infusion of root used to treat typhoid
Infusion given for rheumatism
                                              Decoction or infusion taken and poultice or wash used for breast  troubles

Photo credit: Nelson DeBarros @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Lobelia siphilitica
Great Blue Lobelia

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound taken for pain, poultice of crushed leaves used for headache
Infusion of roots taken for worms and for stomach trouble
Infusion given for rheumatism
Infusion of leaf taken for colds and fever
Used to treat croup and syphilis
Infusion snuffed to stop nosebleed
Used for croup and syphilis
                                              
Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Lycopus americanus
American Bugleweed

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound of plant used for stomach cramps






Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky.

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Lycopus virginicus
Virginia Bugleweed

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Root chewed and given to infants to give the “eloquence of speech”
Root portion chewed and swallowed then remainder applied to snakebite wound
Some groups consider the leaves and roots poisonous




Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Lythrum salicaria
Purple Loosestrife

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound decoction taken for fever


Photo credit: Gary A. Monroe @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Magnolia virginiana
Sweet Bay
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of leaves and twigs taken for colds and chills and to “warm the blood"


Photo credit: J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Mentha arvensis
Field Mint

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion taken for colds, coughs, fever, headache and as a general tonic, compound infusion applied to chest for pneumonia
Infusion of leaves taken for kidney complaints
Infusion of ground leaves and stems taken to induce vomiting and to strengthen heart muscles
Poultice of leaves and stems applied to painful areas, areas of swelling
Poultice of leaves used for rheumatism and arthritis
Cold infusion ingested and used as a lotion for influenza
                                           Infusion of stems given to children for colic

Photo credit: Al Schneider @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Mentha spicata
Spearmint

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used to flavor medicines
                                                     Taken for colic pains, cramps, headaches
                                                     Taken to stop vomiting and for bowel problems
                                                     Infusion taken for fevers and as a cold remedy and given to children for a bad stomach
                                                     Tincture applied to hemorrhoids
                                                     Cold infusion applied to forehead and taken as a cold remedy
                                                     Compound infusion of powdered plants taken for typhoid
                                                     Compound decoction of roots and berries taken for hay fever
                                                     Infusion of leaves taken for diarrhea
                                                     Infusion of plant taken as worming medicine

Photo credit: R.A. Howard @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Mentha x piperita
Pepper Mint

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used to flavor medicine
Taken for fevers, colds, for colic pains, cramps, for headache and for urinary problems
Infusion of plant used by children and adults for worms
Taken to stop vomiting and for bowel problems
Tincture applied to hemorrhoids
Compound infusion taken and applied to chest for pneumonia
                                           Given for cholera infantum

Photo credit: R.A. Howard @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Mertensia virginica
Virginia Bluebells

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Taken for whooping cough and tuberculosis
Decoction of roots taken for venereal disease

Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Mimulus ringens
Monkey Flower

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound decoction of roots taken by women for epilepsy






Photo credit: Nelson DeBarros @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Myriophyllum spicatum
Common Milfoil

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Plant used by some groups for unspecified reasons



Photo credit: Robin R. Buckallew @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Nymphaea odorata
White Waterlily

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Dried, pulverized roots used for mouth sores, stems placed on tooth for toothache
Leaves used for colds
                                               Juice of root taken for coughs
                                                Poultice of boiled root or compound poultice of mashed leaves applied to swellings
                                                Stems placed directly on tooth for toothache
                                                Roots used as cough medicine for tuberculosis

Photo credit: Robin R. Buckallew @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Onoclea sensibilis
Onoclea
 
Wetland Indicator:  FACW
Physiographic Provinces:  Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used for arthritis and infection
Poultice of plant top used for deep cuts
                                                        Used for intestinal trouble
                                                        Infusion of plant taken for pain after childbirth and to promote milk flow 
                                                        Compound decoction of roots taken in early stages of tuberculosis and for venereal disease

Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky.

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Osmunda cinnamomea
Cinnamon Fern
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound of roots rubbed on areas affected by rheumatism, also used for chills
Root chewed and applied to snakebite
Decoction taken for headache and joint pain and colds
Roots used for “women’s problems” and to promote milk flow
                                                                        Cold compound used as a wash and a decoction taken for venereal disease

Photo credit: public domain

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Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis
Royal Fern
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of fronds and wild ginger rhizome used to treat children suffering from intestinal worms
Decoction taken by women for “watery blood”, for strong menses and for kidney colds
Plant used for chronically sick babies



Photo credit: Jeff McMillian @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Peltandra virginica
Arrow arum
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Root grated into milk and given to babies for an unspecified purpose




Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Penthorum sedoides
Stonecrop ditch
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Seeds used to make a cough syrup

Photo credit: H Zell @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Phlox maculata
Meadow Phlox
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of roots made into a wash to encourage a child’s growth








Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Phragmites australis
Common Reed
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Root used for diarrhea, stomach troubles
Decoction of plant taken to induce vomiting
Crushed plant given to children for diarrhea
Sugary sap taken by pneumonia patients to loosen phlegm and soothe lung pain
Poultice of plant applied to boils and carbuncles

Photo credit: Larry Allain @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Phyla lanceolata
Lance Leaf Frog Fruit
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Plant used for rheumatism


Photo credit: Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Physocarpus opulifolius
Eastern Ninebark

Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of inner bark taken to induce vomiting
Decoction of inner bark taken as a laxative for gonorrhea, as a wash for scrofulous neck glands
Bark used to make a drink for female maladies

Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Pilea pumila
Canadian Clearweed

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Stems rubbed between toes for itching
Infusion given to children to suppress appetite
Stem squeezed and the “water” inhaled for sinus troubles

Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Platanthera ciliaris
Yellow Fringe Orchid
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Cold infusion used for headache
Infusion of root taken for diarrhea
Roots used for snakebite



Photo credit: Jeff McMillian @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Platanus occidentalis
Sycamore

Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of inner bark taken for dysentery, cough, measles, difficult urination, colds
Bark used for lung troubles, hemorrhages, internal pain, pulmonary tuberculosis
Compound decoction taken by women to ease menstrual problems and to expel afterbirth
Bark used as a wash for infected sores and infusion given for infant rash
Compound used in steam bath for indigestion
Compound infusion of bark and roots used as foot wash for rheumatism

Photo credit: Gary A. Monroe @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Pluchea foetida
Stinking Camphorweed
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of leaves used for fever







Photo credit: William S.  Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Polygala lutea
Orange Milkwort

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of dried blossoms mixed with water applied to swellings
Plant used for “sapiyi sickness”: heart palpitations, yellow skin, body swellings, and short breath
                                                      Complex infusion of plant taken for chronic conditions

Photo credit: Erica Asai @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Polygonum amphibium
Water Smartweed
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont
Native American usage:
Poultice of fresh roots applied to mouth blisters
Powdered roots added to many herb remedies
Infusion of dried, pounded roots taken raw or raw root eaten for chest cold

Photo credit: Brother Alfred Brousseau @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Polygonum hydropiper
Marshpepper Smartweed

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Taken for painful urination
Infusion mixed with meal and used as a poultice for pain
Infusion of root given to children for diarrhea
Poultice of wet plants applied to forehead for headaches
Decoction of plant taken for fever and chills and for indigestion
Whole plant used for children with swollen stomachs

Photo credit: user:Aroche @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Polygonum lapathifolium
Willow Weed
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of plant taken for stomach trouble, fever and to induce vomiting


Photo credit:
Stan Gilliam @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Polygonum pennsylvanicum
Pennsylvania Smartweed

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of plant tops taken for epilepsy
Infusion of leaf taken for “hemorrhage of blood from the mouth”
Compound infusion of leaf taken to aid postpartum healing
Used as a hemorrhoid treatment


Photo credit: Robin R. Buckallew @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Polygonum persicaria
Ladys Thumb

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction mixed with meal and used as a poultice for pain
Crushed leaves rubbed on poison ivy
Infusion taken for kidney stones
                                                                    Decoction of leaves and flowers taken for stomach pains
                                                                    Decoction of plant used as a foot and leg soak for rheumatism
                                                                    Used for heart trouble

Photo credit: Stan Gilliam @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Polygonum punctatum
Dotted Smartweed
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound decoction of leaves and flowers taken for stomach pain
Decoction of roots taken for pains and swellings in the legs and joints





Photo credit:
William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Pontederia cordata
Pickerel Weed
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of plant used to prevent pregnancy
“Brew” from plant used for “illness in general”




Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Pycnanthemum flexuosum
Narrow Leaf Mountain Mint
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice of leaves used for headache
Infusion taken with “green corn” to prevent diarrhea
Infusion taken for colds, fevers, upset stomach
Infusion of leaves for “heart trouble”


Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Quercus bicolor
Swamp Oak
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound decoction of bark taken for cholera, for broken bones, for tuberculosis




Photo credit: Willow @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Quercus palustris
Pin Oak
 
Wetland Indicator: ACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of inner bark used for intestinal pain





Photo credit: Doug Goldman @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA-NRCS-NPDT

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Quercus pagoda
Cherry Bark Oak
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: not available
Native American usage:
Compound decoction of bark taken for dysentery
Decoction of root or bark applied to swollen joints, sore throat or hoarseness

Photo credit: Will Cook @ carolinanature.com

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Ranunculus abortivus
Subalpine Buttercup
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Poultice used for abscesses
                                                    Infusion used for “thrash”, gargled for sore throat
                                                   Juice used as a sedative
                                                   Compound decoction of roots taken for epilepsy, blood diseases, stiff muscles
                                                   Decoction of roots and leaves used as a wash for sore eyes or for snakebite
                                                   Decoction of smashed root taken for stomach trouble, to dry up smallpox 
                                                   Plant used for toothache
                                                   Root used to stop nosebleed

Photo credit: Patrick J. Alexander @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Ranunculus flabellaris
Yellow Water Buttercup
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Flower stigmas used to induce sneezing for head colds


Photo credit: Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA NRCS. 1992. Western wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. West Region, Sacramento

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Rhexia virginica
Meadow Beauty

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Leaves and stems used as a throat cleanser

Photo credit: Choess @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum
Watercress
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion taken for fevers
Decoction of plant used as a kidney and liver remedy, for cirrhoise of the liver and gallstones
Poultice of fresh plant applied to the forehead for headaches or for dizziness

Photo credit: public domain

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Rorippa sylvestris
Creeping Yellow Cress

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of plant taken by mother for fever in a baby

Photo credit: Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln

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Rosa palustris
Swamp Rose
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of bark and root used for worms
Decoction of roots taken for dysentery

Photo credit: J.I. Jones @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. South National
Technical Center, Fort Worth.

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Rubus hispidus
Bristly Blackberry
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots used for cough, fever, tuberculosis
Infusion of berries used to treat worms
Juice of plant or berry taken for dysentery
Infusion taken for diarrhea
Infusion of leaves taken for boils

Photo credit: J.I. Jones @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. South National Technical Center, Fort Worth.

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Rudbeckia laciniata
Cut Leaf Coneflower
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Cooked spring salad used as a general health aid
Compound poultice of blossoms applied to burn
Compound infusion of roots taken for indigestion

Photo credit: GFDL @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Rumex verticillatus
Swamp Dock
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction or infusion of leaves used in a bath to prevent smallpox



Photo credit: Larry Allain @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Sagittaria lancifolia ssp media
Bultonongue

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used for alligator bites





Photo credit: George Folkerts @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. South National Technical Center, Fort Worth.

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Sagittaria latifolia
Duck Potato
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of leaves, one sip given to children and then remainder used to bath feverish baby
Infusion of root taken for indigestion
Infusion of plant taken for rheumatism
Poultice of corm pounded and applied to wounds and sores
Compound decoction taken for constipation

Photo credit: Stan Gilliam @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Salicornia virginica
Virginia Glasswort
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Plant used for arthritic pain, rheumatism, aches, pain and swelling

Photo credit: Larry Allain @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Salix caroliniana
Coastal Plain Willow
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of roots and bark taken for “feebleness” due to “thin blood” and for fever
Infusion of bark used to induce vomiting in the case of “rainbow sickness”: fever, stiff neck and backache
Infusion of bark taken for “thunder sickness”: fever, dizziness, headache and diarrhea
Plant used for “fire sickness”: fever and body aches
Cold infusion of plant used for bath for body aches
Decoction of bark taken for “menstruation sickness”: yellow eyes and skin, weakness, and shaking head
                                          Infusion of inner bark used for “mist sickness”: eye disease, fever, chills

Photo credit: public domain

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Salix nigra
Black Willow
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of bark taken to help bowels
Bark used as a poultice and as a tonic
Decoction of roots and bark or an Infusion taken for fever
Infusion of roots taken for fevers and for headaches
                                                                      Compound decoction taken for coughs and for stomach gas
                                                                      Used for mouth and throat abscesses
                                                                      Poultice of bruised leaves used on sprains and bruises                
                                                                      Poultice of scraped root and spirits applied to sprains and broken bones

Photo credit: Erica Asai @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Salix sericea
Silky Willow
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Used for mouth and throat abscesses




Photo credit: US Fish and Wildlife Service Native Plant Center

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Sambucus canadensis
Common Elderberry

Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of bark used to induce vomiting and as a laxative
Infusion of berries used for rheumatism
Salve used for burns, as a cathartic, used for skin eruptions
                                                            Infusion of branches applied to head for severe headaches
                                                            Leaves used to wash sores to prevent infection, poultice of barks scraping applied to sores, swellings and wounds
                                                            Decoction of seeds and roots taken for liver trouble
                                                            Pounded root or stalk poultice applied to breast to reduce swelling
                                                            Leaves and stems used for jaundice
                                                            Infusion of flowers given to infants for colic
                                                            Infusion of bark taken for measles, compound decoction of plant taken for diphtheria
                                                            Infusion of berries taken and poultice applied to swellings caused by mumps
                                                            Inner bark of young shoots used as a diuretic
                                                            Fresh bark used in hollow tooth for toothache

Photo credit: H Zell @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Sarracenia purpurea
Northern Pitcher Plant
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of leaves used to ease childbirth, decoction of root used to ease sickness after childbirth                    
Decoction of root used to expel afterbirth
Decoction of root tips taken for urinary difficulties, roots used as a diuretic
Decoction taken for lower back pain, for venereal disease
Compound decoction of leaves taken for recurring chills followed by fever
Infusion of dried leaves used for high fever and shakiness
Compound infusion of whole roots taken for liver sickness, decoction taken for pulmonary complaints
                                                Cold decoction of whole plant taken for whooping cough, plant also used for pneumonia
                                                Infusion of plant used to treat tuberculosis
                                                Roots and infusion of leaves used for smallpox

Photo credit: Jim Stasz @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Saururus cernuus
Lizard’s Tail
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots roasted and mashed and used as a poultice for wounds
Infusion of pounded plants used for rheumatism and for general illness
Infusion of plant used for stomach troubles




Photo credit: Elaine Haug @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Scutellaria lateriflora
Blue Skullcap
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of roots used for monthly periods, compound used for breast pain, 
Compound or decoction of roots used to help expel afterbirth 
Infusion of powdered roots taken to prevent smallpox, to keep the throat clean
Root compound used as kidney medicine
Infusion of root taken for diarrhea


Photo credit: Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln.

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Sisyrinchium angustifolium
Pointed Blue Eyed Grass
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of root given to children for diarrhea
Eaten as cooked greens to promote regularity and decoction taken to prevent constipation
Infusion taken for stomach worms and other stomach troubles




Photo credit: Erica Asai @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Sisyrinchium atlanticum
Eastern Blue Eyed Grass
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound decoction of plant taken to help expel afterbirth

Photo credit: Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. South National Technical Center, Fort Worth.

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Sium Suave
Hemlock Water Parsnip
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots smashed and applied as a poultice for pain from broken limbs
Roots used for the stomach
Compound decoction of roots taken by women for epilepsy



Photo credit: University of Michigan Herbarium

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Smilax laurifolia
Laurel Leaf Greenbrier
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Compound of root bark used as a wash for burns and sores
Decoction of root taken for urinary problems



Photo credit: scott.zona @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Solidago gigantea
Giant Goldenrod
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of leaves used as a tonic
Infusion of blooms used for fevers





Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky.

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Spiraea tomentosa
Steeple Bush
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of leaves and stems used as a medicinal tea
Infusion of leaves taken for dysentery
Infusion of leaves and flowers taken to prevent morning sickness and used to ease childbirth





Photo credit: Jim Stasz @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Stachys tenuifolia
Common Hedge Nettle
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of leaves taken for colds and given to induce vomiting







Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky.

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Symplocarpus foetidus
Skunk Cabbage
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of roots or leaves taken as a cough medicine and for whooping  cough
Small portions of raw leaves eaten for seizures, compound infusion used for convulsions
Poultice of leaf bases applied to swellings, poultice of dried root applied to wounds
                                                             Root hairs used for toothaches, hemorrhages
                                                             Decoction of root used for “weak heart”, infusion of powdered root taken for tuberculosis
                                                             Seeds used as medicine but the reason was unspecified in the reference  material
                                                             Given to children for worms

Photo credit: Fritzflohrreynolds @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Thalictrum pubescens
Tall Meadow Rue
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of smashed plant used to wash head and neck for nosebleed
Compound infusion of roots taken as a medicine for the liver





Photo credit: Fritzflohrreynolds @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Thelypsteris palustris
Marsh Fern
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots used for “women’s trouble”





Photo credit: Johan N @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Thuja occidentalis
Northern White Cedar
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont
Native American usage:
Poultice of powdered leaves applied to swellings
Poultice of rotten wood used for rashes and skin irritations
Decoction of branches taken for rheumatism, for toothache, for pneumonia and for sore bladder
Branches used in steam baths for colds, fevers, rheumatism and for women after childbirth
Infusion of cones used for babies with colic
Infusion of plant taken for menstrual disorders
                                              Compound of leaves taken as a cough syrup
                                              Decoction used as a wash or poultice for cuts, bruises or sores
                                              Bark, inner bark and stems used for burns, coughs and tuberculosis

Photo credit: H Zell @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Toxicodendron vernix
Poison Sumac
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Plant considered poisonous but still used as a wash for external ulcers and for fever, malaria, asthma, and chlamydia






Photo credit: Ted Bodner  @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / James H. Miller and Karl V. Miller. 2005. Forest plants of the southeast and their wildlife uses. University of Georgia Press., Athens.

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Trauvetteria caroliniensis
Carolina Tassel Rue
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots pounded, made into a poultice and applied to boils






Photo credit: Jim Stasz @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Triadenum virginicum
Marsh St. Johns Wort
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of leaves used for fevers

Photo credit: Jim Stasz @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Typha angustifolia
Narrow Leaf Cattail

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of root used for kidney stones





Photo credit: Petr Filippov @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Typha latifolia
Broad Leaf Cattail

Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Roots crushed and made into a poultice for wounds, infections an sprains
Pollen used as medicine but for unspecified purposes
Infusion of roots and leaf base taken for abdominal cramps
Down used as a dressing for burns and scalds and to prevent chafing with infants
Roots used to dissolve kidney stones, gonorrhea
Decoction of stalks taken for whooping cough
                                                Greased leaves used for sores
                                                Young flowering heads eaten for diarrhea

Photo credit: H Zell @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Ulmus americana
American Elm
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW-
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion or decoction of bark taken to ensure stable pregnancy and for menstrual cramps
Infusion of inner bark used for coughs and colds and pulmonary hemorrhage
Compound decoction of bark taken for dysentery and for broken bone
Infusion of root taken for gonorrhea
Decoction of root bark applied to sore eyes as a lotion
Compound decoction with smashed twigs taken for internal hemorrhage
                                                      Bark used to treat diarrhea

Photo credit: Henryhartley @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Vaccinum macrocarpon
Large Cranberry
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont
Native American usage:
Infusion of branches used as a medicine for pleurisy





Photo credit: Meneerke bloem @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Veratrum viride
American False Hellebore
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Decoction of bulb taken for stomachache, chronic cough, constipation, gonorrhea
Compound of bulb made into a poultice and applied to skin fo rheumatism, also applied to chest for heart trouble
Roots used for skin washes and as a compress for bruises, sprains and fractures,
                                                          Compound used as a liniment for sore muscles
                                                          Roots used to induce vomiting and as a sedative
                                                          Stems scraped and powder used to induce sneezing, roots also dried for the same reason
                                                          Infusion of leaves used as a wash for aches and pains
                                                          Dried root used to treat tuberculosis
                                                          Some groups considered the plant poisonous; roots were ingested to commit suicide
                                                         Juice used to induce abortion

Photo credit: User:SB_Johnny @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Verbena hastata
Blue Vervain
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Leaves, seeds and roots used to treat early fever and to induce  vomiting
Used for “female obstructions” and for breast pain
Compound taken for bowel complaints and dysentery, decoction of leaves taken for stomachache 
Dried flowers taken for nose bleed
Compound decoction of roots taken for worms and stomach cramps
                                         Taken for colds and coughs, compound infusion of root taken for  earaches

Photo credit: Jim Stasz @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Vernonia noveboracensis
New York Ironweed
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of root given for pain after childbirth, various infusions given for “monthly period” and to “prevent menstruation”
Infusion of root used for loose teeth and for stomach ulcers and  hemorrhage



Photo credit: William S. Justice @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

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Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides
Possomhaw

Wetland Indicator: FACW
Physiographic Provinces: Appalachian Plateau, Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont
Native American usage:
Infusion taken to prevent recurrent spasms
Root bark taken to induce sweating and as a general tonic
Compound infusion taken for fever, smallpox, and malaria
Infusion of bark used as a wash for sore tongue

Photo credit: Ted Bodner, James H Miller @ commons.wikimedia.org

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Viola cucullata
Marsh Blue Violet

Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Unknown
Native American usage:
Poultice of leaves used for headache
Infusion taken for dysentery, for the blood, for colds and coughs and as a spring tonic
Poultice of crushed root applied to boils
Infusion sprayed on nose for catarrh



Photo credit: Thomas G. Barnes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Barnes, T.G., and S.W. Francis. 2004. Wildflowers and ferns of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky.

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Xyris ambigua
Coastal Plain Yellow Eyed Grass
 
Wetland Indicator: OBL
Physiographic Provinces: Valley and Ridge, Blue Ridge, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of herbage rubbed on chest for colds and for pulmonary disorders



Photo credit:
A. Murray University of Florida

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Xyris caroliniana
Carolina Yellow Eyed Grass
 
Wetland Indicator: FACW+
Physiographic Provinces: Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Native American usage:
Infusion of root taken for diarrhea and considered “good for children”




Photo credit: Lisa Kelly cas.vanderbilt.edu

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