The Enigma & Healing Practises of Native American Cultures

From an early age, I have been captivated by the rich range of cultures that populate our planet. This fascination led me to pursue a three-year study in cultural anthropology as I grew older. There is one culture that resonates with me on a profoundly personal level: that of Native American Indians. My fascination with their history, traditions, and ways of living has shaped not only my understanding of our shared humanity but also my approach to health and wellness. It is their holistic healthcare practises that invoke my deepest intrigue, revealing a profound wisdom rooted in a deep connection to nature, community, and spirituality.

As I learn about their healing methods, I find myself captivated by the seamless integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Native American healthcare is not merely about treating symptoms; it embraces the whole person, recognising that health is a dynamic interplay of mind, body, spirit, and environment. This perspective challenges the often fragmented approach of modern medicine and invites me to ponder deeper questions about wellness and the nature of healing itself. As you explore the product pages of Ancient Purity, you'll discover a remarkable selection of items that have been cherished by Native American Indians for generations and continue to hold value today. Be sure to check out the links to these extraordinary products at the end of this article.

In my journey of exploration, I have come to appreciate how indigenous practices emphasise the importance of balance and harmony. Whether through the use of medicinal plants, rituals, or community gatherings, these practices embody a philosophy that transcends time and cultural boundaries. Each encounter with these holistic approaches deepens my respect for a way of life that values interconnectedness and sustainability, reminding me that we are all part of a larger ecosystem where every element influences the whole. As I continue to immerse myself in the teachings of Native American cultures, I feel a responsibility to honour their wisdom and to share it with others.

There is so much that contemporary society can learn from these practices, insights that can lead to more compassionate, inclusive, and effective healthcare. This journey fuels my desire to explore further, to understand the stories behind the practices, and to discover how this ancient knowledge can illuminate paths to better health in our modern world. Through this exploration, I not only seek to learn but also to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary healing, fostering a greater appreciation for the art of healing that has thrived for centuries among Native American communities.

History, Hunting, Healing & the Creator

The rich tapestry of Native American heritage reveals that the majority of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas trace their lineage back to a singular group of brave migrants who embarked on an extraordinary journey across the Bering land bridge from Asia over 15,000 years ago. These early inhabitants, adapting to the rugged landscapes they encountered, embraced a hunter-gatherer lifestyle that relied on their profound connection with nature. The social structure of their communities was marked by cooperation and sharing, with men engaging in the pursuit of large game, while women skilfully foraged for fruits, edible plants, and small animals to sustain their families and tribes. In this harmonious existence, the concept of wasted resources was virtually non-existent. When a sizable animal such as the mighty bison was killed, the tribe came together to ensure that every part of the creature was utilised. Lacking refrigeration, they took great care to process the meat promptly, distributing it among the tribe for immediate consumption, or preserving it through smoking to create jerky for future nourishment. The bones and teeth found new life as tools and decorative items, while the bison's skin was transformed into clothing, footwear, and even material for patching their tepees. This sustainable approach was not just about survival; it was a profound expression of respect for nature and the interconnectedness of life.

The healing traditions among Native American tribes are as varied and intricate as the communities themselves, steeped in diverse rituals, ceremonies, and a vast reservoir of healing knowledge. At the centre of these practices stood the esteemed medicine man, who served as both a spiritual guide and a leader in times of crisis, often akin to the role of a war chief. Most tribes held the belief that true health resulted from maintaining a harmonious relationship with the spirit, mind, and body. Each person bore the responsibility for their well-being, understanding that their thoughts and actions could yield significant consequences, such as illness or misfortune. Striking a delicate balance between oneself, the community, and the natural world was essential; this equilibrium, many believed, would invite the benevolence of the Creator, safeguarding them from harm and restoring health when it faltered.

Integral to these healing practices were herbal remedies that transcended mere physical ailments, journeying into the world of spirituality and harmony. In 1832, American adventurer and artist George Catlin had the privilege of immersing himself in the world of the Mandan tribe along the Knife River in Dakota. During his time there, he encountered Old Bear, the tribe's revered medicine man. Catlin observed with fascination as Old Bear guided new apprentices through the tribe’s ceremonial practices, imparting the wisdom of herbal remedy collection and application. While many of the herbs and natural resources were sourced from the surrounding environment, it is believed that the tribes occasionally ventured into long-distance trade for rare items, demonstrating their resourcefulness and deep connections across vast landscapes. This dynamic exchange illustrates the complexity and richness of Native American life, weaving together threads of tradition, healing, and the enduring impact of their harmonious relationship with nature.

Cedar & Tobacco

The Creator bestowed upon Native Americans four revered Sacred Medicines to enrich their daily lives and ceremonial practices: Tobacco, Sage, Cedar, and Sweetgrass. Each of these profound gifts serves a vital purpose, not only in traditional rituals but also in various aspects of everyday existence. While all four can be utilised for smudging, a practice that involves burning herbs to generate a sacred aromatic smoke, Sage, Cedar, and Sweetgrass also possess a multitude of additional applications. Tribal elders would often share that the spirits took delight in the fragrant offerings produced when these sacred medicines were ignited, drawing the divine closer to the earthly realm. Among these gifts, Indian Tobacco (Lobelia inflata) holds a particularly significant place in the heart of Native culture, recognised as the very first blessing from the Creator to Indigenous people. This herbaceous plant, an annual or biennial species that can reach heights of up to one metre, is adorned with tiny hairs that blanket its sturdy stems. The ceremonial burning of Tobacco not only welcomed guests but also honoured shared moments around the sacred peace pipe, blessing vital food crops and upcoming hunts. Furthermore, smoking Tobacco facilitated communication with the Creator and served as a means of solidifying agreements between tribes, fostering collaboration for the greater good of their communities.

The many uses of the Tobacco plant extended beyond ceremonies. Tribes such as the Cherokee, Iroquois, and Penobscot employed Tobacco as a poultice or cold infusion to remedy various ailments like body aches, insect bites and stings, abscesses, and sores. It could be chewed, brewed into an infusion, or prepared as a tincture to harness its emetic qualities, often colloquially referred to as “puke weed.” This versatile plant was also utilised to alleviate sore throats, assist asthma sufferers, and prevent colic. Notably, the Iroquois described the therapeutic value of the roots for treating venereal diseases, while the Cherokee found merit in burning the foliage to dispel gnats and other bothersome insects. However, it is crucial to approach the use of lobelia with caution, as ingesting the roots, in particular, can lead to severe adverse reactions, including sweating, diarrhoea, tremors, rapid heartbeat, confusion, convulsions, hypothermia, coma, and even death. Cedar trees (Juniperus virginiana), flourishing in cool, damp forests often rich with fungi and moulds, harbour oils celebrated for their antioxidant and antibiotic properties, making them effective in repelling insects, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Cedar plays a significant role in smudging rituals for purification, as its cleansing qualities are recognised and revered. For coastal Indigenous peoples, Western Red Cedar leaves have served as vital medicine, both internally and externally, to alleviate painful joint conditions and combat skin and nail fungal infections. Cedar tea has long been cherished for its restorative benefits, capable of battling infections, fevers, and coughs. Meanwhile, emerging studies suggest that cedar might bolster immune function by enhancing the action of white blood cells, empowering the body’s natural defences against illness.

Through the lens of these Sacred Medicines, one can appreciate the deep spiritual connection and reverence that Native Americans maintain toward the natural world. Each medicine is not merely a tool for survival or healing but a manifestation of a profound relationship with the Creator and the spirit world, reminding us of the harmony and balance that exist in nature and our collective responsibilities to safeguard these sacred gifts for generations to come.

Sweetgrass & Sage

Sweetgrass (Hierochloe odorata) is an enchanting perennial that captivates the senses with its delightful, vanilla-like fragrance, gracefully dancing through the meadows of North America, Asia, and Europe. This aromatic herb transcends mere sensory pleasure; it is imbued with coumarin (C9H6O2), a natural compound celebrated for its blood-thinning properties. Native American communities, among others, hold Sweetgrass in high esteem, regarding it as a sacred herb integral to purification and spiritual connection. Often woven into smudging ceremonies, the fragrant smoke of Sweetgrass is believed to fulfil a dual purpose: cleansing the spirit and creating a bridge to the divine, allowing for the transmission of sacred messages from other realms. But the allure of Sweetgrass extends well beyond its spiritual significance; it boasts a rich tapestry of medicinal history. A soothing tea brewed from its delicate leaves has long been used to relieve coughing, ease sore throats, and reduce fevers, showcasing its remarkable versatility as a natural remedy. The therapeutic attributes of Sweetgrass exemplify its role as a cherished herb in indigenous practices, where it serves not only as a sensory delight but also as a healing agent capable of fostering both physical and spiritual well-being.

Similarly, Sage (Salvia officinalis) stands as a robust evergreen perennial, notable for its distinctive woody stems and silvery-grey leaves. With its origins in the sun-kissed regions of southern Europe and the Mediterranean, this revered herb now flourishes in gardens across warmer temperate areas, including North America. Sage has been venerated through the ages, not solely for its culinary applications, often paired splendidly with onions to complement roasted meats, but also for its remarkable healing properties. Historically, Sage has been recognised as a potent remedy for a variety of ailments, acting as a natural ally against pain, oxidative stress, and various forms of inflammation, as well as offering protection against bacterial and viral infections. Its versatility is evident in its myriad applications: Sage is frequently used topically to treat cold sores and manage gum disease, while also providing relief from discomfort in the mouth, throat, and nasal passages. The leaves of Sage can be transformed into poultices to address sprains, reduce swelling, and promote healing of ulcers and bleeding injuries. Moreover, Sage plays a crucial role in digestive health and has served as a trusted ally for women experiencing painful menstrual cycles. It has been traditionally used to regulate excessive milk production during nursing and to alleviate the discomfort associated with hot flashes. Often savoured in tea form, Sage remains a cherished remedy for soothing sore throats and persistent coughs.

Both Sweetgrass and Sage embody the profound intersection of nature, culture, and health, serving as timeless companions in our quest for balance, healing, and connection to the earth’s profound gifts. Their rich histories and healing qualities remind us of the powerful legacy of herbal wisdom that continues to thrive in our modern world. Recent studies have illuminated sage’s potential in the field of cognitive health, suggesting that its essential oils may inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This enzyme is known to impair the function of acetylcholine, a vital neurotransmitter linked to memory and learning, particularly in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. In embracing both Sweetgrass and Sage, we are not only connecting with nature's aromatic gifts but also tapping into a wellspring of ancient wisdom, where the natural world offers remedies that touch both body and spirit.

Ginseng, Garlic & Goldenseal

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), a member of the Ranunculaceae is a herbaceous perennial plant with upright, un-branched, finely haired stems, with two palatably lobed leaves. The Cherokee, Iroquois, and Micmac tribes used this plant to combat inflammation and infection and to boost the immune system. Its antibacterial activity in vitro has been attributed to its alkaloids, the most abundant of which is Berberine, which is found in the rhizome and the stems. The Cherokees also used it as a wash to treat skin diseases and sore eyes and mixed a powder made from the root with bear (Ursus americanus) fat for use as an insect repellent. More recently, some studies have suggested that it is possible that Berberine has anticancer properties and may be able to block the proliferation of and to kill cancer cells. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a dwarf palm tree of the family Arecaceae and is indigenous to the south-eastern parts of the United States. But, Saw Palmetto fibres have been found among materials from indigenous people as far north as Wisconsin and New York, strongly suggesting this material was widely traded prior to European contact. Saw Palmetto berries have traditionally been used by American Indians to cure genitourinary disturbances and relieve mucous membrane irritations. Their use in treating prostrate inflammation has been documented since the 1700s and traditionally they were used to treat testicular atrophy, erectile dysfunction and oliguria.

Ginseng, the aromatic root of the Panax species (Panax quinquefolius and Panax ginseng), resembles a small parsnip that forks as it matures. The active ingredients of Ginseng are ginsenosides, which are also called Ginseng saponins and are abundant in the roots, leaves, stem, and fruits of the plant. It has been used as a traditional medicine in China, Korea, and Japan for thousands of years and some of the Native American tribes also used this component in their herbal remedies for digestive troubles and pain relief. The Muscogee people used a poultice of the root to staunch bleeding and a tea infusion to treat respiratory conditions and fevers. While the Meskwaki people of the Great Lakes region have used it as both an aphrodisiac and as a universal remedy for children and adults, an ancient health tonic! Another plant that has been used since the early years of human civilisation, both as a food and herbal remedy, is Garlic (Allium sativum). Traditional knowledge of allium plants is widespread in all human cultures, where Garlic, onion, leeks, chives, scallions and shallot are commonly used. The Cherokee used the plant as a diuretic, expectorant, mild cathartic and for scurvy, asthma, and prevention of worms.

St John’s Wort & Cranberry

The Cranberry plant (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a low-growing, woody, perennial vine with small, alternate, and ovate leaves. The plant produces horizontal stems growing to a height of up to six feet (2 metres). Short, vertical branches, or uprights, 2–8 inches (5–20 cm) in height, grow from buds on the stems, and these can be either vegetative or fruiting. Each fruiting upright may contain as much as seven flowers. The Native Americans used cranberries in a variety of foods, the most popular being pemmican, a high-protein combination of crushed Cranberries, dried deer meat, and melted fat (later consumed by Arctic and Antarctic explorers, such as Amundsen, Shackleton and Scott). They also used it as a medicine to treat arrow wounds and as a dye for rugs and blankets. And then there are the Montagnais (a tribe from the northern shores of the Gulf of St Lawrence) who used the cranberry to treat pleurisy. Cranberries contain, amongst other things, anthocyanins and flavonols; these are a class of water-soluble flavonoids widely present in fruits and vegetables. Studies claim to have shown that these compounds exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including being an antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. It has been claimed that they promote health by protecting from various degenerative diseases and diabetes as well as enhancing visual function and slowing the progression of neurological disorders. Consumption of flavonoid-rich plant foods has been claimed to protect against cardiovascular diseases. It is known that the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) is associated with cardiovascular diseases, so it is possible that flavonoids, compounds which possess antioxidant activity, will have potential benefits in the prevention of these diseases.

The Cherokee, Iroquois and Montagnais used St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) to treat fevers, coughs, and bowel complaints. St John’s Wort is a sprawling, leafy herb that grows in open, disturbed areas throughout much of the world’s temperate regions. The use of this species as a herbal remedy to treat a variety of internal and external ailments dates back to the time of the ancient Greeks. Since then, people have attempted to use it as a treatment for anxiety, depression, cuts, and burns. Some recent research also claims the effectiveness of this herb in treating other ailments, including inflammation-related disorders, and bacterial and viral diseases, and as an antioxidant and neuroprotective agent. Two major active constituents have been identified: hypericin (a naphtodianthrone) and hyperforin (a phloroglucinol), which are now used as antidepressant, ant carcinogenic (photodynamic), antimicrobial and virostatic (human immunodeficiency and hepatitis C virus) agents.

Nettle, Evening Primrose & Leafcup

Switching gears, another fascinating herb, Smallanthus uvedalia, commonly known as hairy Leafcup, bear’s foot or yellow flower Leafcup, hails from the Asteraceae family and thrives in the Central and Eastern United States. Native American tribes prized this perennial for its internal laxative effects and its ability to stimulate health, as well as to treat swollen glands, particularly in cases of mastitis. The Cherokee ingeniously concocted a soothing salve from its roots for burns and cuts, while the Iroquois drank an infusion to alleviate back pain and nausea. Interestingly, while the Iroquois used it for stomach relief, the Cherokee employed a tea made from the plant to induce vomiting, illustrating how different parts of the plant were utilised for varying therapeutic effects.

Then, we come to the humble Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), a plant that boasts an extensive legacy of healing wisdom throughout human history. Ancient Egyptians prized nettle infusions for their efficacy in combatting arthritis, while Roman soldiers, seeking relief from the rigours of battle, transported the plant to the British Isles to soothe their aching limbs after arduous campaigns. Across North America, nearly all Native American tribes mastered the art of preparing nettles, commonly boiling the leaves to render them safe for consumption. The Mohegans combined nettles with pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus), a nutrient-dense green rich in vitamins A and C and dock greens (Rumex obtusifolius), which are known for their high oxalic acid content, creating a wholesome meal.Nettles were not merely culinary delights; they were also integral to traditional medicine. Many tribes incorporated them into sweat lodge rituals aimed at detoxification, and poultices made from Nettles were applied to alleviate pain caused by arthritis and other ailments. The Paiute tribe took a unique approach, using the leaves and stalks as a sort of temporary flail on their limbs, harnessing the Nettle's properties for therapeutic benefit. The Abnaki devised a snuff from dried and powdered Nettle leaves as a remedy for nosebleeds, and the Sioux brewed tea to address urinary issues, while countless other tribes embraced nettle tea as a fundamental health tonic and digestive aid.

Thus, from Evening Primrose to Hairy Leafcup to the humble Stinging Nettle, these plants reveal the intricate tapestry of traditional healing practices woven through centuries. Their uses, steeped in rich cultural heritage, underscore the remarkable relationship between indigenous peoples and the natural world, a relationship founded on knowledge, respect, and profound understanding of nature’s offerings.

Proven Effectiveness

The American missionary John Heckewelder (1743–1823) observed that Native American tribes were home to skilled physicians of both genders, deeply committed to understanding the medicinal properties of plants, roots, and barks for the benefit of their patients. Their practise was built on a foundation of careful observation, rich experience, and the proven effectiveness of their remedies. Similarly, the esteemed American anthropologist and ethnographer Frances Densmore (1867–1957) documented her encounters with these dedicated healers, revealing their remarkable ability to mend wounds and treat ailments using simple, natural herbal remedies. Densmore noted that many practitioners had their own unique names for individual medicinal plants, reflecting a deep personal connection to their craft. These healers would meticulously gather herbs at the optimal times, often traveling several days from their homes to secure the best specimens. Once collected, they would expertly dry and bundle the herbs, preserving them for future healing practices.

Key Takeaways

Some Native American tribes have achieved a lasting legacy through the countless reruns of classic Western films; the Apaches, Cherokee, and Sioux, along with their iconic leaders such as Sitting Bull, Geronimo, and Crazy Horse continue to resonate in our collective memory. However, behind this cinematic portrayal lies a narrative marked by greed, tragedy, and betrayal from colonising Europeans. Initially rooted in mutual trade, relations soured as devastating diseases such as smallpox, tuberculosis, measles, cholera, and the bubonic plague ravaged indigenous communities. The colonists, perceiving the native peoples as inferior and uncivilised due to their nomadic lifestyles and what they deemed "underutilisation" of land, instigated a tragic decline in relationships. Over 300 years, from 1609 to 1900, this led to violent conflicts and forced relocations, reducing Native American tribes from inhabiting vast ancestral territories to confined reservations.

Today, many tribes across the United States are rekindling their rich traditions and cultures. Efforts include teaching indigenous languages to younger generations, hosting inter-tribal gatherings, and revitalising traditional medicine practices. Native American healing emphasises a holistic approach, addressing the whole person through herbal remedies, ceremonies, and the involvement of family, often finding that combining modern medicine with traditional practices yields better health outcomes. In response to prevalent health issues like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, there’s a growing movement toward traditional diets, which are less reliant on processed foods. This has spurred an increasing demand for buffalo meat as studies indicate it is leaner and less atherogenic than beef.

Buffalo, once nearly hunted to extinction in the 1800s, have made a comeback as many are now bred commercially and reintroduced into national parks as part of conservation efforts. As migratory herbivores, bison graze expansively on grasses, encouraging a richer mosaic of plant life. Their natural behaviours such as trampling woody vegetation, wallowing, and distributing waste, enhance seed dispersal and nutrient circulation across the landscape, fostering biodiversity and supporting species such as the greater prairie chicken and various quails. Larger mammals, including pronghorn antelope and mule deer, thrive as well, benefiting from the increased abundance of forbs and shrubs that comprise their diet. Much like the positive ecological impact of grey wolves' reintroduction to Yellowstone National Park, the return of buffalo offers a powerful opportunity to rejuvenate the Great Plains, promising benefits for all who inhabit this cherished landscape.

Links to Native American Herbal Remedies Highlighted in This Article

Hopefully, after having read this article, you as well became fascinated with Native American Healing Practises. Here are the links to products used in Native American Culture…

• Sweetgrass Braid "The Hair of Mother earth."
• Blue Sage Wand also Known as Grandmother Sage
• St John’s Wort Plant Juice
• Nettle Leaf & Root Powder
• Cold-Pressed Evening Primrose Oil

"We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren and children yet to be born. We must protect the forests for those who can't speak for themselves such as the birds, animals, fish and trees." - Qwatsinas (Hereditary Chief Edward Moody), Nuxalk Nation