Top 20 Medicinal Wild Plants in North America

If you’re reading this article, you already know that many of the most common ailments, like colds, sore throats, cuts, burns, indigestion, or headaches, can be treated with wild medicinal plants. The question is, which ones are worth foraging? You don’t want to spend all day searching for a plant that barely makes a dent in your cold symptoms.

To create this list, we focused on the most potent, effective, and easy-to-find medicinal plants in North America. We filtered out the rare, overly toxic, or hard-to-identify species so you can start using these wild plants confidently and safely. Whether you’re an herbalist, forager, homesteader, or just curious, these are the best medicinal plants worth knowing.

For each plant on the list, we’ve included a simple, reliable recipe for its most common and effective preparation, whether that’s a tea, tincture, poultice, or syrup. These aren’t complicated formulas with hard-to-find ingredients. They’re practical, proven methods you can make in your own kitchen with minimal equipment.

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Note: The list in alphabetical order.

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)

American Ginseng is a slow-growing perennial herb with a forked root (the valuable part), typically shaped like a human figure. It has:

• Three to five compound leaves, each with 3–5 serrated leaflets.
• A single stalk that grows 8–15 inches tall.
• Small greenish-white flowers that turn into bright red berries in late summer.

It’s usually found in rich, moist hardwood forests (especially with maple and oak) in the eastern U.S. and southern Canada, from the Appalachian Mountains to parts of the Midwest. It prefers shady, undisturbed woodland slopes.

Important: Wild American Ginseng is heavily overharvested and protected in many areas. Always check local laws before harvesting.

Medicinal Use

American Ginseng is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body resist stress and supports energy, stamina, immune health, and cognitive function. It’s considered cooling (as opposed to Asian ginseng, which is more stimulating).

It’s mostly used for:

• Fatigue
• Immune support
• Stress and anxiety
• Blood sugar regulation

Ginseng root is usually sliced and simmered to make a tonic tea.

How to Make a Ginseng Tea

Ingredients:

• 1–2 grams dried American Ginseng root (about 1–2 thin slices)
• 1.5–2 cups water
• Pot with lid

Instructions:

1. Place sliced ginseng root into a small pot.
2. Add water and bring to a low boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, covered.
4. Strain and drink. You can reuse the same root slices for a second brew (just simmer a little longer).
5. Optional: Add honey or lemon.

Drink 1 cup per day as a tonic, but don’t overuse. Ginseng is best in cycles (e.g., 2–3 weeks on, 1 week off).

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Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)

Black Cohosh is a tall perennial herb in the buttercup family. It grows up to 4–6 feet tall and is known for its tall, white flowering spikes that resemble bottlebrushes. Its roots and rhizomes are the parts used medicinally.

• Leaves are large and compound, divided into three sections with jagged edges.
• Flowers are small, white, and clustered on tall, wand-like spikes.
• Stems are smooth, often with a purple hue.

It’s typically found in rich, moist woodlands and forest edges, mostly in the eastern U.S., from Georgia to Ontario, particularly in the Appalachian region. It prefers shaded slopes and damp soil.

Important: While safe in moderate doses, high doses can cause side effects. Avoid during pregnancy unless under professional guidance.

Medicinal Use

Black Cohosh is most commonly used for women’s health, particularly hormonal issues related to menopause and menstruation. It has mild sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.

It’s mostly used for:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Menstrual cramps
• Mood swings
• Rheumatic pain

It’s typically prepared as a tea or tincture, but tea is less common due to its bitter taste. Still, a simple decoction can be made from dried root.

How to Make a Black Cohosh Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1 teaspoon dried Black Cohosh root (about 2 grams)
• 1.5 cups water
• Pot with lid

Instructions:

1. Add the dried root to a pot with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
3. Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, covered.
4. Strain and sip slowly.

Due to bitterness, it’s often blended with milder herbs like mint or chamomile.

Drink no more than 1 cup per day and limit use to short durations (2–3 weeks at a time). Don’t drink it if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have liver issues.

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Black Haw (Viburnum prunifolium)

Black Haw is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the viburnum family. It grows up to 15 feet tall and produces clusters of white flowers in spring followed by blue-black berries in fall. The bark is the medicinal part, typically harvested in fall or early spring.

• Leaves are opposite, oval-shaped, and finely serrated along the edges.
• Bark is grayish-brown with small warty bumps.
• Flowers are small, white, and form flat-topped clusters.
• Berries are dark blue to black, often with a powdery coating.

Black Haw grows in woodlands, thickets, and along forest edges, mostly in the eastern and southeastern United States. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Medicinal Use

Black Haw is best known as a uterine antispasmodic and muscle relaxant. It’s traditionally used for menstrual issues and was also used historically during pregnancy to help prevent miscarriage (only under professional supervision).

It’s mostly used for:

• Menstrual cramps
• Uterine spasms
• PMS-related pain
• Muscle tension
• Nervous irritability

The bark is usually prepared as a decoction (tea) or tincture, but tea is a common traditional use.

How to Make a Black Haw Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried Black Haw bark
• 1.5–2 cups water
• Small pot with lid

Instructions:

1. Add the bark to a pot with water.
2. Bring to a low boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, covered.
4. Strain and sip.

Optional: Add cinnamon or honey to improve the taste.

Drink 1/2 to 1 cup, up to twice a day during times of menstrual or muscle discomfort. Avoid drinking during pregnancy unless supervised by a qualified practitioner.

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Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)

Boneset is a tall, native wildflower in the aster family that grows 3–4 feet high. It’s known for its unique leaf arrangement — the stem appears to pierce through the leaves, a key ID feature. The leaves and flowers are used medicinally.

• Leaves are long, narrow, and lance-shaped with sharply toothed edges. They grow opposite each other and are fused at the base around the stem.
• Stems are hairy and upright.
• Flowers are small, white, and grow in dense, flat-topped clusters at the top of the plant.

It’s commonly found in damp meadows, streambanks, low woodlands, and ditches throughout eastern and central North America. It blooms in late summer to early fall.

Medicinal Use

Boneset has long been used as a fever remedy, especially for influenza and viral infections. It promotes sweating, eases body aches, and supports immune response. It was a traditional remedy during the 1918 flu pandemic.

It’s mostly used for:

• Fevers and chills
• Flu and colds
• Body aches
• Poor digestion
• Immune support

Boneset is usually prepared as a hot tea (infusion or decoction). It has a bitter taste but is highly effective.

How to Make a Boneset Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried Boneset leaves and flowers
• 1.5 cups hot water
• Mug with cover or tea pot

Instructions:

1. Place the dried herb into a cup or teapot.
2. Pour hot water (just off boiling) over it.
3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and drink while hot.

Optional: Add a bit of honey or peppermint to improve taste.

Drink 1/2 to 1 cup up to 3 times a day at the onset of fever or flu. Best taken hot to encourage sweating. Avoid long-term use and don’t drink if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Chicory (Cichorium intybus)

Chicory is a tough, upright perennial with bright blue flowers that open during the day and close by afternoon. It’s a member of the dandelion family, and the roots and young leaves are used medicinally.

• Flowers are sky-blue (sometimes pink or white), daisy-like, and about 1–1.5 inches across.
• Stems are tall (up to 4 feet), stiff, and often branch out.
• Leaves at the base resemble dandelion leaves, while upper leaves are smaller and clasp the stem.
• The thick taproot is similar to a parsnip.

It’s commonly found along roadsides, pastures, fields, and disturbed soils across most of North America. It prefers full sun and blooms from midsummer to fall.

Medicinal Use

Chicory is best known for supporting digestion and liver health. It’s mildly bitter, making it useful for stimulating bile flow and aiding digestion. It’s also a prebiotic, feeding healthy gut bacteria.

It’s mostly used for:

• Liver support
• Indigestion and bloating
• Constipation
• Blood sugar regulation
• General detox support

Chicory root is often roasted and used as a tea or coffee substitute, but it can also be decocted fresh or dried.

How to Make a Chicory Root Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1 tablespoon dried chicory root (roasted or raw)
• 2 cups water
• Pot with lid

Instructions:

1. Place chopped or ground chicory root into a pot with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Strain into a cup.
4. Optional: Add cinnamon or mix with coffee for a traditional “chicory coffee.”

Drink 1 cup before or after meals to support digestion. For long-term use, rotate with other digestive herbs.

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Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea & E. angustifolia)

Echinacea is a hardy perennial in the daisy family, known for its large, cone-shaped flower heads. The root, leaves, and flowers are all used medicinally, though the root is considered the most potent.

• Flowers are pink to purple with drooping petals and a spiky, orange-brown central cone.
• Leaves are lance-shaped, hairy, and grow alternately along the stem.
• Stems are stiff and upright, typically 2–4 feet tall.
• Roots are fibrous and pale, with a tingly or numbing taste.

It’s native to central and eastern North America and grows in prairies, open woods, and roadsides. E. purpurea is more common in cultivation; E. angustifolia is smaller and found more in dry plains and prairie regions.

Medicinal Use

Echinacea is best known as an immune stimulant, helping the body fight off infections, particularly when taken at the first sign of illness. It’s not meant for long-term daily use.

It’s mostly used for:

• Colds and flu
• Sore throats
• Respiratory infections
• Wound healing (topical use)
• Immune support during acute illness

Echinacea is usually taken as a tea or tincture, especially from the dried or fresh root.

How to Make an Echinacea Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1 teaspoon dried echinacea root or 2 teaspoons dried aerial parts
• 1.5 cups water
• Small pot with lid

Instructions:

1. If using root, simmer it gently in water for 15–20 minutes.
2. If using leaves/flowers, steep them in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain and drink warm.

Optional: Add lemon, mint, or honey to improve taste.

Drink 1 cup up to 3 times daily at the first sign of cold or infection. Best used for short periods (up to 10 days at a time), not as a daily preventive.

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Elder (Sambucus canadensis or S. nigra)

Elder is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows 5–12 feet tall. It’s known for its clusters of fragrant white flowers and dark purple-black berries. Both flowers and berries are used medicinally. The flowers are used for tea, and the berries are used for syrups or tinctures.

• Leaves are a pinnately compound with 5–11 serrated leaflets.
• Flowers are creamy white and grow in broad, flat-topped clusters.
• Berries are small, round, and dark purple to black, hanging in bunches.
• Stems are soft, hollow, and can break easily.

It’s found along roadsides, forest edges, and stream banks across much of North America. It prefers moist, rich soil and partial sun.

Important: Raw elderberries and other parts of the plant (leaves, stems, unripe berries) contain cyanogenic glycosides and can be toxic if not properly cooked.

Medicinal Use

Elder is best known for supporting the immune system, especially during colds and flu. The berries are antiviral and antioxidant-rich, while the flowers are diaphoretic (promote sweating) and helpful for fevers.

It’s mostly used for:

• Cold and flu prevention
• Shortening the duration of illness
• Fever and sinus congestion
• Immune system support

The most common preparation for the berries is a syrup — safe, effective, and great for kids and adults alike.

How to Make Elderberry Syrup

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh, de-stemmed)
• 3 cups water
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 cinnamon stick or 1 tsp ground (optional)
• 1 cup raw honey (adjust to taste)
• Medium saucepan, strainer, and jar

Instructions:

1. Add elderberries, water, and optional spices to a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, until reduced by about half.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Mash the berries gently, then strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Stir in honey once the liquid is warm (not hot).
6. Pour into a clean glass jar and store in the fridge.

Take 1 tablespoon daily for immune support, or every few hours during illness. Reduce to 1 teaspoon for children over age 1. Never give raw or syrup made with honey to babies under 1 year old.

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Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal is a low-growing woodland plant with a thick yellow root and broad, wrinkled leaves. It belongs to the buttercup family and is often found growing alongside ginseng. The root and rhizome are the medicinal parts.

• Leaves are large, deeply veined, and have 5–7 lobes with jagged edges.
• It produces a single, small greenish-white flower with no petals in spring.
• The flower becomes a single red berry in summer.
• Roots are thick, knotted, and bright yellow on the inside.

It’s native to rich, shady woodlands in the eastern United States, especially the Appalachian region and Midwest. It’s now rare in the wild due to overharvesting, so it’s better cultivated or sustainably sourced.

Medicinal use

Goldenseal is best known for its antimicrobial properties. It contains berberine, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects. It’s most commonly used for infections of the mucous membranes.

It’s mostly used for:

• Sinus infections
• Sore throat
• Mouth ulcers
• Eye infections (diluted wash)
• Digestive issues (diarrhea, gastritis)

The most common and effective preparation is a tincture, due to its potency and the root’s tough texture.

How to Make a Goldenseal Tincture

What you’ll need:

• 1 ounce (by weight) dried goldenseal root, chopped
• 5 ounces (by volume) high-proof alcohol (vodka or grain alcohol, 80–100 proof)
• Glass jar with lid
• Cheesecloth or strainer
• Dropper bottle for storage

Instructions:

1. Place the dried root into a clean glass jar.
2. Pour alcohol over the herb, making sure it’s fully submerged.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 3–4 weeks. Shake it every few days.
4. After 4 weeks, strain out the root through cheesecloth.
5. Store the finished tincture in a dropper bottle, away from heat and light.

Standard dose is 10–30 drops diluted in water, up to 3 times daily for acute infections. Not for long-term use, and avoid during pregnancy.

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Juniper (Juniperus communis)

Juniper is a coniferous evergreen shrub or small tree with sharp, needle-like leaves and small blue berries (actually modified cones). The berries are the medicinal part and have been used for centuries as a urinary antiseptic.

• Leaves are sharp, pointed, and needle-like, often arranged in whorls of three.
• Berries are small, round, green when young, and turn dark blue to purple as they mature (takes about 2 years).
• The plant has a strong, resinous aroma when crushed.

Juniper grows widely across North America, especially in dry, rocky soils, pine forests, and open woodlands. Common Juniper (J. communis) is more shrub-like, while Eastern Red Cedar (J. virginiana) grows as a tree.

Important: Juniper should not be used long-term or during pregnancy. Some species are toxic if misidentified — only use berries from known-safe species like J. communis or J. virginiana.

Medicinal Use

Juniper berries are best known for their use as a diuretic and urinary tract antiseptic. They help flush the kidneys and bladder and are sometimes used for digestion as well.

It’s mostly used for:

• Urinary tract infections
• Water retention
• Indigestion and bloating
• Gas and cramping

Juniper berries are usually prepared as a tea, though tinctures are also used.

How to Make a Juniper Berry Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1 teaspoon dried juniper berries (crushed slightly)
• 1.5 cups hot water
• Mug with cover

Instructions:

1. Lightly crush the dried berries using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
2. Place the crushed berries in a mug.
3. Pour hot (just-boiled) water over them.
4. Cover and steep for 15–20 minutes.
5. Strain and sip.

Drink up to 1 cup twice daily for short-term use only. No more than 1 week at a time. Stop using if irritation or kidney pain occurs. Also, don’t use if you’re pregnant or have kidney disease.

More Info:

Osha Root (Ligusticum porteri)

Osha is a perennial herb in the parsley family, known for its strong, spicy aroma and powerful medicinal properties. The root is the part used, often referred to as “bear root” due to reports of bears eating it when sick.

• Leaves are fern-like and resemble parsley or celery.
• Stems are green to purple and hollow.
• Flowers are small, white, and grow in umbrella-like clusters (umbels).
• Roots are dark brown on the outside, yellowish inside, with a strong, spicy scent like celery and camphor.

It grows at high elevations in the Rocky Mountains and southwestern U.S., typically between 7,000–10,000 feet. It prefers moist, shaded mountain meadows and conifer forests.

Important: Osha is often confused with highly toxic plants like poison hemlock. Identification must be 100% certain. Also, wild osha is overharvested. Only use sustainably sourced or cultivated root.

Medicinal Use

Osha root is best known as a respiratory herb, especially effective at the onset of colds and flu. It’s antimicrobial, decongestant, and soothing to irritated throats.

It’s mostly used for:

• Sore throat
• Bronchitis
• Cough and chest congestion
• Sinus infections
• Viral respiratory infections

Because of its resinous, aromatic compounds, the most effective method is a tincture, not tea.

How to Make an Osha Root Tincture

What You’ll Need:

• 1 ounce dried osha root (chopped or sliced)
• 5 ounces high-proof alcohol (vodka or grain alcohol, 80–100 proof)
• Glass jar with lid
• Cheesecloth or strainer
• Dropper bottle for storage

Instructions:

1. Place the dried root in a clean glass jar.
2. Pour alcohol over it until completely covered.
3. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking every few days.
4. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth.
5. Bottle and label. Store in a cool, dark place.

Use 10–30 drops in water or tea, up to 3 times daily at the first sign of respiratory infection. Best used short-term. Not for use during pregnancy or in high doses.

More Info:

Plantain (Plantago major & P. lanceolata)

Plantain is a common low-growing herb found just about everywhere — lawns, trails, driveways, and disturbed soil. It’s often considered a weed, but it’s one of the most useful medicinal plants in North America. The leaves are used medicinally, either fresh or dried.

• Leaves are oval (P. major) or lance-shaped (P. lanceolata), with 3–7 prominent parallel veins running from base to tip.
• Grows in a rosette close to the ground.
• Flower stalks rise from the center, bearing tiny, inconspicuous flowers in tight spikes.
• Leaves are slightly rubbery and can be pulled apart in strands, like celery.

It grows virtually everywhere including cities, rural areas, forests, and fields. If there’s compacted soil and human activity, plantain is probably growing there.

Medicinal Use

Plantain is best known for its wound-healing, drawing, and anti-inflammatory properties. It works both internally and externally and is especially good for skin issues and insect bites.

It’s mostly used for:

• Cuts and scrapes
• Bug bites and bee stings
• Rashes and skin irritation
• Minor burns
• Drawing out splinters or infection

The most common and immediate use is as a fresh poultice, but it’s also made into salves or tea.

How to Make a Plantain Poultice

What You’ll Need:

• A few fresh plantain leaves
• Clean hands or water for rinsing

Instructions:

1. Harvest fresh, undamaged leaves. Rinse if needed.
2. Chew the leaves briefly (if you’re comfortable doing so), or crush them with your fingers or a stone to release the juices.
3. Apply the mashed leaf directly to the affected area.
4. Cover with a bandage or cloth to hold it in place.
5. Reapply with fresh leaf every few hours as needed.

This method works fast for stings, bites, and minor wounds. For long-term storage, dried plantain can be used to make a salve or infused oil.

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Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris)

Self-Heal is a low-growing perennial herb in the mint family, with purple snapdragon-like flowers and square stems. It spreads by creeping stems and is often found in lawns, meadows, and along trails. The entire above-ground part of the plant is used medicinally.

• Leaves are oval, slightly toothed, and grow in pairs along square stems.
• Flowers are purple, hooded, and grow in dense, compact spikes at the end of stems.
• The plant is typically under 12 inches tall and spreads low to the ground.
• It has a faint herbal scent when crushed.

It grows widely across North America and thrives in lawns, roadsides, forest edges, and disturbed ground. It’s hardy, adaptable, and often overlooked, but extremely useful.

Medicinal Use

Self-Heal got its name because of its reputation as a universal healer, especially for wounds, infections, and inflammation. It’s both antiviral and anti-inflammatory.

It’s mostly used for:

• Minor cuts and wounds
• Canker sores and sore throats
• Viral infections (like cold sores or shingles)
• Skin irritation or burns
• General immune support

Self-Heal can be used fresh or dried as a tea, salve, or gargle. For internal and topical use, the most common method is a tea.

How to Make a Self-Heal Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried self-heal (or a small handful of fresh)
• 1.5 cups hot water
• Mug with cover

Instructions:

1. Place the herb in a mug or teapot.
2. Pour hot (just boiled) water over it.
3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and drink warm, or cool and use as a mouth rinse or compress.

Drink 1 cup up to 3 times a day. For mouth sores or sore throat, swish and gargle. For wounds or burns, soak a cloth in the cooled tea and apply directly to the skin.

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Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Skullcap is a slender, upright herb in the mint family, known for its calming properties. It gets its name from the shape of the small flowers, which resemble tiny medieval helmets or “skull caps.” The aerial parts (leaves and flowers) are used medicinally.

• Leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and finely toothed.
• Stems are square and often branched.
• Flowers are small, bluish-purple, and grow in pairs along one side of the stem.
• The plant grows 1–3 feet tall and has a bushy, delicate appearance.

It grows in moist woods, stream banks, and meadows across much of eastern North America. It prefers shady to partly sunny areas with damp soil.

Medicinal Use

Skullcap is a nervine, which means it calms the nervous system. It’s especially good for anxiety, tension, and insomnia. It’s a true “herbal chill pill.”

It’s mostly used for:

• Anxiety and stress
• Insomnia
• Restless sleep
• Nervous tension and irritability
• Menstrual-related mood swings

Skullcap is commonly taken as a tea or tincture. Both are effective, but tea is gentle and easy to prepare at home.

How to Make a Skullcap Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried skullcap (or a small handful fresh)
• 1.5 cups hot water
• Mug with cover

Instructions:

1. Place the dried herb in a mug or teapot.
2. Pour in hot (just off boiling) water.
3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and drink warm.

Drink 1 cup in the evening to relax, or 30 minutes before bed to support restful sleep. Can be taken during the day for anxiety, but don’t combine with alcohol or sedative medications.

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Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)

Slippery Elm is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to eastern North America. The inner bark is the medicinal part, known for its mucilaginous (slippery, gel-like) texture when mixed with water.

• Leaves are large (4–8 inches), rough to the touch, and double-serrated with asymmetrical bases.
• Bark is dark brown and deeply grooved.
• Inner bark (the medicinal part) is light tan and fibrous.
• The tree grows 40–60 feet tall and is often found in rich, moist forests and along riverbanks.

It grows throughout the eastern U.S. and parts of southern Canada, preferring moist, well-drained soils.

Medicinal Use

Slippery Elm is most valued for its soothing, coating action on inflamed tissues. It’s demulcent and nutritive, which means it not only soothes but can help nourish weak or sick bodies.

It’s mostly used for:

• Sore throat
• Cough and bronchitis
• Heartburn and acid reflux
• Stomach ulcers
• Diarrhea or digestive irritation

The most common and effective method is to mix the powdered inner bark with water to make a thick drink or paste.

How to Make a Slippery Elm Drink (Mucilage)

What You’ll Need:

• 1 teaspoon slippery elm powder (from inner bark)
• 1/2 cup warm water (not boiling)
• Spoon and cup

Instructions:

1. Place slippery elm powder into a cup.
2. Slowly stir in warm water while mixing to avoid clumping.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken.
4. Stir again and drink slowly.
5. Optional: Add a little honey or cinnamon for flavor.

Take 1–2 times daily between meals to soothe the throat and digestive tract. For sore throats, you can also let it coat the mouth and throat before swallowing.

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Sumac (Rhus glabra)

Sumac is a tall shrub or small tree with bright red cone-shaped berry clusters. It’s best known for its tart flavor and antioxidant properties. The berries are the medicinal part — not to be confused with the poisonous white-berried sumac (Toxicodendron vernix).

• Leaves are long and feather-like, made up of 11–31 pointed leaflets with finely toothed edges.
• Berries are small, fuzzy, and bright red, forming upright cone-like clusters.
• Branches and berries have a slightly sticky, citrusy feel and scent.
• In fall, the leaves turn bright red, making the plant very noticeable.

It grows widely across North America along roadsides, fields, forest edges, and hillsides. Rhus glabra (smooth sumac) and Rhus typhina (staghorn sumac) are both safe and commonly used medicinally.

Medicinal Use

Sumac is high in vitamin C and antioxidants and has cooling, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a traditional remedy for fevers, sore throats, and digestive upset.

It’s mostly used for:

• Colds and sore throats
• Fever and inflammation
• Diarrhea
• Blood sugar regulation
• General antioxidant support

The most common preparation is a cold infusion, often called “sumac lemonade,” made by soaking the berries in cold water.

How to Make Sumac Lemonade

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 clusters of fresh red sumac berries (or 2 tablespoons dried berries)
• 2–3 cups cold water
• Pitcher or jar
• Fine strainer or cheesecloth

Instructions:

1. Gently crush the berries to expose the surface (don’t pulverize).
2. Place them in a pitcher with cold water.
3. Let steep for 4–6 hours, or overnight in the fridge.
4. Strain through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove hairs and debris.
5. Serve chilled.
6. Optional: Add honey or maple syrup to sweeten.

Drink 1–2 cups per day as a refreshing immune and antioxidant tonic. Don’t boil the berries as heat destroys the vitamin C and can bring out bitterness.

More Info:

Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

Wild Bergamot, also known as bee balm, is a native perennial in the mint family with a strong, spicy scent and showy lavender flowers. The leaves and flowers are used medicinally and have a long history of use by Indigenous peoples.

• Leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and aromatic when crushed (similar to oregano or thyme).
• Flowers are tubular, pale purple to lavender, and grow in rounded clusters at the top of stems.
• Stems are square and slightly hairy.
• The plant grows 2–4 feet tall and spreads in clumps.

It’s commonly found in meadows, prairies, and woodland edges throughout North America, especially in sunny or lightly shaded areas with well-drained soil.

Medicinal Use

Wild Bergamot is known for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and carminative (gas-relieving) properties. It’s especially useful for respiratory infections, digestion, and minor wounds.

It’s mostly used for:

• Colds and flu
• Sore throats and congestion
• Gas, bloating, and indigestion
• Mild skin infections or wounds
• Anxiety and restlessness

The most common preparation is a tea or steam inhalation for respiratory issues.

How to Make a Wild Bergamot Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried leaves and flowers (or a small handful fresh)
• 1.5 cups hot water
• Mug with cover

Instructions:

1. Place the herb in a mug or teapot.
2. Pour hot (just off boiling) water over it.
3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and drink warm.
5. Optional: Add honey or lemon for sore throat relief.

Drink 1 cup up to 3 times a day during colds or digestive upset. For steam inhalation, use a large handful of fresh leaves in a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapors under a towel for 10–15 minutes.

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Wild Licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota)

Wild Licorice is a native perennial legume with compound leaves and clusters of fuzzy seed pods. The root is the medicinal part and has a sweet, earthy flavor similar to commercial licorice (though it’s a different species from the European variety Glycyrrhiza glabra).

• Leaves are compound, made up of 7–17 small oval leaflets arranged alternately.
• Flowers are small, pale purple, and grow in short spikes.
• Seed pods are curved, hairy, and often sticky.
• Roots are tough, fibrous, and sweet-tasting when chewed.

It grows in prairies, open woodlands, and along rivers or roadsides throughout central and western North America, often in sandy or loamy soil.

Medicinal Use

Wild Licorice is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and adrenal-supportive effects. It’s also mildly expectorant and supports digestion.

It’s mostly used for:

• Coughs and sore throat
• Stomach ulcers and indigestion
• Fatigue and adrenal exhaustion
• Inflammation
• Immune support

The most common method is a decoction of the dried root, though tincture is also used.

How to Make a Wild Licorice Root Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried wild licorice root (chopped or shredded)
• 1.5 cups water
• Small pot with lid

Instructions:

1. Add the licorice root to a pot with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
3. Cover and simmer for 20–30 minutes.
4. Strain and drink warm.
5. Optional: Blend with ginger, cinnamon, or fennel for added digestive support.

Drink 1 cup up to twice daily. Avoid long-term use (more than a few weeks) in high doses, especially if you have high blood pressure or kidney issues, as it can affect electrolyte balance.

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Willow (Salix spp.)

Willow refers to a large group of deciduous trees and shrubs found near water. Several species are used medicinally, but all share a key compound: salicin, a natural precursor to aspirin. The inner bark is the part used for medicine.

• Leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and finely toothed.
• Bark is gray to brown, smooth in younger branches, and rougher on older trunks.
• Willows often grow with arching branches and prefer wet areas like stream banks and marshes.
• Catkins (fuzzy flower spikes) appear in early spring.

It’s widespread across North America, often found along rivers, ponds, and low-lying wetlands. Common medicinal species include Salix alba (white willow), Salix nigra (black willow), and Salix lucida (shining willow).

Medicinal Use

Willow bark is best known as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, traditionally used much like aspirin — but gentler on the stomach.

It’s mostly used for:

• Headaches
• Back pain
• Joint pain and arthritis
• Fevers
• General inflammation

The most common home preparation is a decoction of the inner bark.

How to Make a Willow Bark Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1 teaspoon dried willow bark (chopped)
• 1.5 cups water
• Small pot with lid

Instructions:

1. Place the willow bark in a pot with water.
2. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Strain and drink warm.
4. Optional: Add a slice of ginger or a bit of honey to improve flavor.

Drink 1 cup up to twice daily for pain or fever. Not for use by children, pregnant people, or those allergic to aspirin. Avoid combining with blood thinners or NSAIDs without medical guidance.

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Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

Witch Hazel is a small deciduous tree or large shrub known for its striking yellow flowers that bloom in late fall, often after the leaves have dropped. The bark and twigs are the medicinal parts, most often used in topical preparations.

• Leaves are oval with wavy or scalloped edges and are alternate along the branches.
• Flowers are bright yellow with ribbon-like petals and appear in clusters.
• Bark is smooth and grayish-brown on young wood.
• The plant grows 10–20 feet tall and often spreads in dense clumps.

It’s native to eastern North America and is commonly found along forest edges, stream banks, and in shady, moist woodlands.

Medicinal Use

Witch Hazel is one of the best-known astringent herbs, prized for tightening tissues and reducing inflammation. It’s almost exclusively used externally.

It’s mostly used for:

• Cuts and scrapes
• Bruises and swelling
• Hemorrhoids
• Varicose veins
• Acne and oily skin

The most common preparation is a distilled extract, which is widely available commercially. However, a basic astringent infusion can be made at home from the twigs or bark.

How to Make a Witch Hazel Astringent

What You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons fresh or dried witch hazel twigs or bark (chopped)
• 1.5 cups water
• Small pot with lid
• Glass jar or bottle

Instructions:

1. Add the witch hazel to a small pot with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes.
3. Let cool, then strain into a clean glass jar or bottle.
4. Store in the fridge for up to a week.

Use with a cotton ball on the skin for irritation, swelling, or acne. For hemorrhoids or varicose veins, soak a cloth and apply as a compress.

Note: This homemade version is not the same as commercial witch hazel extract, which is distilled and preserved with ingredients such as vegetable glycierin. For a longer shelf life, add 1–2 tablespoons of vodka as a preservative.

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Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a hardy perennial herb with feathery leaves and flat-topped clusters of tiny white or pale pink flowers. It’s one of the most versatile and widely used medicinal plants in North America. The entire above-ground part, including the flowers, leaves, and stems are used medicinally.

• Leaves are finely divided and fern-like, often described as “milfoil” (a thousand leaves).
• Flowers are small, white to pink, and grow in dense, umbrella-like clusters.
• Stems are slightly hairy and grow 1–3 feet tall.
• The plant has a slightly bitter, medicinal scent when crushed.

It grows wild in meadows, roadsides, and open fields across North America, often thriving in poor or disturbed soil. It blooms from late spring through early fall.

Medicinal Use

Yarrow is a styptic, anti-inflammatory, and fever-reducing herb. It’s traditionally used to stop bleeding, reduce fever, ease menstrual pain, and promote wound healing, both internally and externally.

It’s mostly used for:

• Cuts and scrapes (to stop bleeding)
• Fevers and colds
• Menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding
• Digestive upset
• Bruises and swelling

Yarrow can be used fresh as a poultice, dried as a tea, or powdered to stop bleeding. One of the most common and effective methods is a tea.

How to Make a Yarrow Tea

What You’ll Need:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried yarrow (flowers and leaves) or a small handful fresh
• 1.5 cups hot water
• Mug with cover

Instructions:

1. Place the herb in a mug or teapot.
2. Pour in hot (just boiled) water.
3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
4. Strain and drink warm.
5. Optional: Add a little mint or honey for taste.

Drink 1 cup every few hours at the onset of fever or menstrual discomfort. For external use, cool the tea and apply as a compress to wounds, or use fresh leaves directly on minor cuts to stop bleeding.

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