Category: Nevada Native Herbs

Nevada Native Herbs are plants that can be used in natural health. These plants can be used either externally or internally to restore health that can be found in Nevada.

Mountain Mahogany

March 8, 2025 / Michael

Mountain Mahogany (Vaccinium membranaceum) is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that can grow up to six feet tall and has oval leaves with smooth edges. It is commonly found in the mountains of California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington and prefers well-draining soil conditions and full sun exposure.
Mountain Mahogany grows naturally in mountainous regions of western North America and can be found near other native plants such as redwoods, Douglas fir, and Sitka spruce. It is commonly used for landscaping and erosion control due to its ability to tolerate harsh soil conditions and low water requirements.
This herb has been used by Native Americans for centuries as a medicinal plant. The bark, leaves, and berries were used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, colds, coughs, and sore throats. Today, Mountain Mahogany is still used in herbal medicine to regulate digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and improve immune function.
This herb contains several active compounds that have various health benefits. Hydroquinone, for example, is an antioxidant that has been shown to protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Catechin, another active compound found in Mountain Mahogany, has been linked to improved cardiovascular health and reduced risk of heart disease. Additionally, the berries of this herb are high in antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a valuable food source for humans and wildlife alike.
Mountain Mahogany interacts with several biochemical pathways within the body. For example, it has been shown to inhibit the enzyme cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), which plays a role in metabolizing drugs and xenobiotics. Additionally, this herb has been found to increase the activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). This suggests that Mountain Mahogany may have a protective effect against oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
While Mountain Mahogany has many potential health benefits, it should be used with caution in certain populations. Pregnant women and those with liver or kidney disease should avoid using Mountain Mahogany due to its high concentration of hydroquinone and other bioactive compounds that can cause adverse effects when taken in excessive amounts. Additionally, individuals taking prescription medications should consult with their healthcare provider before starting supplementation with Mountain Mahogany, as it may interact negatively with certain drugs.
In conclusion, Mountain Mahogany is a valuable herbal remedy with many potential health benefits. Its active compounds have been shown to regulate digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and improve immune function. However, it should be used with caution in certain populations due to its high concentration of bioactive compounds that can cause adverse effects when taken in excessive amounts. It is important for individuals interested in using Mountain Mahogany as a supplement to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement regimen.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

Herbs: Devil’s Club Greasewood Indian Paintbrush Oregon Grape Rabbitbrush Sagebrush

Nevada Native Greasewood: A Promising Herbal Remedy

March 7, 2025 / Michael

Nevada native Greasewood (Garcinia glauca) is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to three feet tall and has narrow, oblong leaves with sawtooth edges. It is commonly found in the Mojave Desert region of California, Nevada, and Utah. Geographic Area and Growing Conditions Preferred Greasewood thrives in dry, sandy soil conditions and can be found growing near Joshua trees, cacti, and other desert plants. It prefers full sun exposure and does not require much water to grow.

Greasewood has been used for centuries by Native Americans as a medicinal plant. The seeds were roasted and ground into flour, while the bark was boiled and made into a tea to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and sore throat. Today, greasewood is still used in herbal medicine for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and improve digestion.

Greasewood contains several active compounds that have been found to have numerous health benefits. For example, hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is a compound found in high concentrations in the leaves of greasewood and has been shown to inhibit the enzyme ATP citrate lyase, which plays a key role in fat storage. HCA also blocks the activity of an enzyme called alpha-amylase, which breaks down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars in the small intestine. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sweets.

Greasewood interacts with several biochemical pathways in the body, including those involved in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, and gastrointestinal function. For example, HCA has been shown to increase the breakdown of fat cells in the liver and reduce the production of new fat cells. Additionally, greasewood stimulates the production of digestive enzymes such as lipase and amylase, which can help improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

While greasewood has many potential health benefits, there are some contraindications to its use. Pregnant women, people with diabetes, and those taking medications for blood sugar control should consult a healthcare professional before using greasewood supplements. Additionally, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome should use caution when consuming greasewood, as it may exacerbate these conditions.

Overall, Nevada native Greasewood (Garcinia glauca) is a promising herbal remedy with numerous potential health benefits. Its active compounds such as HCA have been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and stimulate the breakdown of fat cells. However, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders or taking medications for blood sugar control should consult a healthcare professional before using greasewood supplements.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

Mushrooms: Maitake Mushroom

Herbs: Pinyon Pine Panax Ginseng Sagebrush

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Mormon Tea: a Nevada Healing Herb

March 7, 2025 / Michael

Mormon tea is a Nevada native herb that has been used by Native American tribes for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments. The name “Mormon tea” comes from the fact that early Mormon settlers in Utah used it as an ingredient in their famous tea blends.

There are over 30 species of Mormon tea, all of which are found in western North America. Each species has its own unique characteristics such as size, color, and habitat. The most common 18 are:
Artemisia tridentata – also known as big sagebrush, this species is commonly found in the western United States and Canada. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments including colds, coughs, and headaches.
Artemisia filifolia – also known as desert mallow or desert horsebrush, this species is found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It has been used to treat stomach problems, urinary tract infections, and menstrual cramps.
Artemisia douglasiana – also known as Douglas wormwood or Sierra mugwort, this species is found in western North America. It has been used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia abrotanoides – also known as tarragon, Mexican tea, or Mexican wormwood, this species is found throughout Mexico and the southwestern United States. It has been used to treat stomach problems, digestive issues, and headaches.
Artemisia umbelliformis – also known as bearbrush or mountain wormwood, this species is found in western North America. It has been used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia cana – also known as snakeweed, white rabbitbrush, or Sierra mugwort, this species is found throughout the Rocky Mountains. It has been used to treat digestive problems, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia arbuscula – also known as desert tarragon or creosote bush, this species is found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has been used to treat stomach problems, digestive issues, and headaches.
Artemisia vaseyana – also known as Vasey’s sagebrush, this species is found in western North America. It has been used to treat digestive problems, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia californica – also known as California wormwood or silver bush, this species is found throughout the southwestern United States. It has been used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia tridentata – also known as bearbrush or big sagebrush, this species is found in western North America. It has been used to treat stomach problems, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia ludoviciana – also known as Louisiana sage or green gum, this species is found throughout the southeastern United States. It has been used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and insomnia.
Artemisia austromexicana – also known as Mexican mugwort or mountain mugwort, this species is found in western Mexico and the southwestern United States. It has been used to treat stomach problems, headaches, and insomnia.

Mormon tea contains a variety of active constituents including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids. These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. The biochemical pathways that Mormon tea interacts with are numerous. It has been shown to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. It also has antimicrobial properties and can help regulate immune function.

Mormon tea should be used with caution by those with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners due to its natural ability to thin the blood. It may also interact with certain medications, so it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using.

The healing power of Mormon tea is a testament to the traditional use of herbal medicine in Native American culture. Its use in natural medicine shows that natural remedies can be just as effective (if not more so) than modern pharmaceuticals. I will break Mormon Teas down in the next specialty series of posts.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

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Indian Paintbrush, a Nevada Native

March 6, 2025 / Michael

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja chromosa), also known as Castilleja, is a native plant of Nevada that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. It has showy flowers with yellow petals tipped in red, and it grows in alpine meadows and desert rock formations at high elevations.
Indian Paintbrush is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall. Its leaves are lance-shaped with entire margins and grow in a basal rosette. The flowers are usually solitary or borne in umbellate clusters, and they have a distinctive paintbrush shape.
Indian Paintbrush has been used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries. The Cheyenne tribe used the plant as a remedy for stomach disorders, while the Hopi tribe used it to treat headaches and sore throat. In traditional medicine, Indian Paintbrush was also used for its anti-inflammatory properties and to relieve pain.
Active Constituents: Indian Paintbrush contains several active constituents, including saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenols. These compounds have been shown to possess a variety of biochemical properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. this herb contains several active constituents including flavonoids such as castillilin, tectorigenin and castalgin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It also has triterpenoids such as betulinic acid and oleanolic acid that can reduce inflammation and prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Biochemical Pathways: The biochemical pathways in which this herb interacts with the human body are not well understood, but it is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects due to its flavonoid content. It can also modulate the immune system by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Indian Paintbrush interacts with several key signaling pathways in the body, including those involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune response. The herb has been shown to possess strong anti-inflammatory activity, likely due to its ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and 5-LOX. Indian Paintbrush may also have antioxidant properties, due to its high content of flavonoids and terpenoids.
Indian Paintbrush is generally considered safe for most people when used in moderation. However, it should be avoided by pregnant women and individuals with kidney or liver disease. It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and immunosuppressants.
Indian Paintbrush is a promising herb with a rich history of traditional use in natural medicine. Its active constituents possess a variety of biochemical properties that make it an attractive option for those seeking natural relief from a range of ailments. However, as always, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or medication regimen.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

Herbs: Ashwagandha Calendula Devil’s Claw Morinda Rabbit brush

Wild Rue

March 6, 2025 / Michael

Wild rue, scientific name Ruta graveolens, is a native plant to Nevada that has been used in natural medicine for centuries. This small shrub is easy to identify with its distinctive appearance, including feathery leaves and small blue flowers. In this blog post, we will explore the history of wild rue as a medicinal plant, its active constituents, and their effects on various biochemical pathways. We will also discuss some contraindications for using wild rue in natural medicine.

This herb is native to the Mediterranean region, and many western states including Nevada, as well as other parts of the world such as Africa and Asia. It thrives in dry, rocky areas with well-draining soil. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a distinctive feathery appearance due to its compound leaves. Wild rue is an evergreen perennial that produces small blue flowers in late spring or early summer.

Wild rue has been used in natural medicine for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. It was originally used as a digestive aid and to stimulate circulation. The plant was also used for its antiseptic properties and as a treatment for snake bites. In traditional medicine, wild rue was often used to treat digestive issues, including indigestion, constipation, and nausea.

Wild rue contains several active constituents that have been studied for their potential medicinal properties. Some of the key compounds in wild rue include:

* Rutin: This compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protective effects.
* Limonene: This compound is a natural fragrance that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
* Thujone: This compound has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
* Pinenes: These compounds are found in the resin of pine trees and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

The active constituents in wild rue have been studied for their effects on various biochemical pathways, including:

* Inflammation: The compounds in wild rue have been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
* Oxidative stress: Rutin, a compound found in this herb, has been shown to protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
* Cardiovascular health: The compounds in wild rue have been shown to have cardiovascular protective effects by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
* Digestion: Wild rue has been used traditionally as a digestive aid, and its active constituents may help to improve digestion by stimulating the production of bile and promoting regular bowel movements.

While this herb has many potential health benefits, there are some contraindications for using the plant in natural medicine. This herb should not be used during pregnancy or lactation as it can have an effect on the uterus and may cause miscarriage. The plant should also be avoided by those with epilepsy or taking seizure medications, as it may increase the risk of seizures. Additionally, this herb can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using the plant in natural medicine.

Wild rue is a native plant to Nevada that has been used in natural medicine for centuries. It contains several active constituents that have been studied for their potential medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protective effects. However, there are some contraindications for using wild rue in natural medicine, including during pregnancy or lactation and by those with epilepsy or taking seizure medications. As with any natural remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using wild rue in natural medicine.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

Herbs: Catnip Ginger Oregon Grape Rabbitbrush

Pages: Natural Medicine Blog posts

Rabbitbrush: The Native American Healing Plant

March 5, 2025 / Michael

Rabbitbrush has been used for its medicinal properties by Native Americans for centuries. It is a plant that grows naturally in the western United States and Canada and is known for its healing properties. Rabbitbrush contains over 200 active components, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes, making it an excellent choice for health and wellness. In this article, we will take a closer look at what rabbitbrush is, its history of use in natural medicine, its active constituents, their mechanism of action, metabolic pathways they interact with, and contraindications. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of this amazing healing plant. History of Use in Natural Medicine Rabbitbrush has been used for its medicinal properties by Native Americans for centuries. It was first mentioned in writing by Spanish explorers who encountered Native American tribes using rabbitbrush for various ailments such as snake bites and stomach problems. In fact, the Zuni people have a legend about how rabbitbrush got its name – they say that rabbits used to eat the plant, which gave it a soft, furry appearance. Active Constituents Rabbitbrush contains over 200 active components, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes. Some of the most important active constituents in rabbitbrush include:

Phenolic compounds – these are natural chemicals that have antioxidant properties and may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Salicylic acid – this is a compound that is similar to aspirin and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Flavonoids – these are plant pigments that have antioxidant properties and may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Mechanism of Action The active constituents in rabbitbrush work together to support health in various ways. For example:
Phenolic compounds – these are natural chemicals that have antioxidant properties and may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Salicylic acid – this is a compound that is similar to aspirin and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Flavonoids – these are plant pigments that have antioxidant properties and may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Contraindications Rabbitbrush is generally considered safe when taken orally. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:
Salicylic acid – excessive use of rabbitbrush supplements can lead to stomach upset and other gastrointestinal problems.
Phenolic compounds – high doses of phenolic compounds can cause liver damage, so it is important not to take more than recommended amounts.

In conclusion, rabbitbrush has a long history of use in Native American medicine for its healing properties. It contains over 200 active components, including salicylic acid and flavonoids, which work together to support health. However, excessive use of rabbitbrush supplements can lead to gastrointestinal problems and liver damage, so it is important to follow recommended dosages.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

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Herbs: Calendula Devil’s Club Oregon Grape Uva Ursi

Pinyon Pine (Pinus edulis): Another Nevada Native with Medicinal Potential

March 5, 2025 / Michael

Pinyon pine (Pinus edulis), also known as pinyon or nut pine, is a native tree in Nevada that has been used for centuries by indigenous people for its medicinal properties. The plant’s resilience and ability to thrive in harsh environments have made it a symbol of Nevada’s unique ecosystem. In this blog post, we will explore the history of pinyon pine in Nevada natural medicine, its active constituents and their mechanism of action, as well as its interaction with the biochemical pathway involved in inflammation.

History in Nevada Natural Medicine:

This tree has been used by Native American tribes in Nevada for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. The plant’s medicinal properties have also been passed down through generations of indigenous people. Today, pinyon pine is still used by some indigenous communities in Nevada as a traditional medicine.

Active Constituents and Mechanism of Action:

The active constituents of this tree include resin, which contains several compounds with medicinal properties. One of the most well-known compounds in pinyon pine resin is alpha-pinene, which has been found to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and bronchodilating properties. The mechanism of action for alpha-pinene and other active compounds in pinyon pine is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to involve interaction with biochemical pathways involved in inflammation.

Interaction with the Inflammatory Pathway:

Pinyon pine has been found to inhibit the production of prostaglandins through its interaction with cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme that plays a role in inflammation. By inhibiting COX, pinyon pine may help reduce inflammation in the body, which could potentially be beneficial for a variety of conditions including arthritis, migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome.

This tree is a Nevada native with a rich history of use as a medicinal plant by indigenous people. Its active constituents, including alpha-pinene, have been found to possess a variety of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. By inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the body through its interaction with the inflammatory pathway, pinyon pine may potentially be beneficial for reducing inflammation. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of this Nevada native.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

Mushrooms: Chaga Mushroom

Herbs: Quassia Sagebrush Devil’s Claw Sandalwood

Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata): A Nevada Native with Medicinal Potential

March 4, 2025 / Michael

Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), also known as sagebrush or mountain sagebrush, is a native shrub in Nevada that has been used for centuries by indigenous people for its medicinal properties. The plant’s resilience and ability to thrive in harsh environments have made it a symbol of Nevada’s unique ecosystem. In this blog post, we will explore the history of this herb in Nevada natural medicine, its active constituents and their mechanism of action, as well as its interaction with the biochemical pathway involved in inflammation.

Sagebrush has been used by Native American tribes in Nevada for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. The plant’s medicinal properties have also been passed down through generations of indigenous people. Today, sagebrush is still used by some indigenous communities in Nevada as a traditional medicine.

The active constituents of sagebrush include thujone, camphor, and several other compounds that have been found to possess medicinal properties. Thujone, which is also present in other members of the Artemisia genus like wormwood, has been found to have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative properties. The mechanism of action for thujone and other active compounds in sagebrush is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to involve interaction with biochemical pathways involved in inflammation.

Sagebrush has been found to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like compounds that play a role in inflammation. Prostaglandins are produced through the enzymatic activity of cyclooxygenase (COX), and sagebrush has been found to inhibit this enzyme. By inhibiting COX, sagebrush may help reduce inflammation in the body, which could potentially be beneficial for a variety of conditions including arthritis, migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Sagebrush is a Nevada native with a rich history of use as a medicinal plant by indigenous people. Its active constituents, including thujone, have been found to possess a variety of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and sedative effects. By inhibiting the production of prostaglandins through its interaction with the inflammatory pathway, sagebrush may potentially be beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of this Nevada native.

Further Reading on Natural Medicine:

Mushrooms: Chaga Mushroom

Herbs: Oregon Grape Devil’s Club Devil’s Claw

Pages: Natural Medicine Blog Post