prairie sagewort
Artemisia frigida Willd.
Medicinal Documentation
An infusion of the plant is used to treat cudweed sagewort, stomach disorders, to treat intestinal worms, to calm nerves, and to cudleaf sage, pȟeží hóta wápe treat colds, sore throats and diarrhea.
Infusion of plant taken by women during menses.
Plant braid tied around the head for nosebleed.
Infusion of leaves taken as a cough medicine. The leaves are brewed in to tea for coughs. | Leaves are used to stop hemorrhages 132
Ceremonial & Cultural Notes
Leaves and stems burned as incense and used for "smudging." That is, the sage is burned and the smoke breathed in, and wafted all over the body to purify one's self.
Commentary: Although not specifically identified by species, Ball Park in the Middle Park area, Colorado was called Nookhooseii-koh’owu or “Sage Creek.”30
Plant used in the Sun Dance ceremony Additional commentary: This sage was used in connection with the sacred woman in the Sun Dance. It was also braided and worn as a headband to stop a nosebleed. Moerman also indicates this sage’s use as a gynecological aid.116
Commentary: The plant also is called mountain ball sage. Although not specifically identified by species, Ball Park in the Middle Park area, Colorado was called Nookhooseii-koh’owu or “Sage Creek.”32 | Artifacts: A green dye is made from the leaves. Commentary: The plant also is called mountain ball sage. Although not specifically identified by species, Ball Park in the Middle Park area, Colorado was called Nookhooseii-koh’owu or “Sage Creek.”34 | Commentary: The plant also is called mountain ball sage. Although not specifically identified by species, Ball Park in the Middle Park area, Colorado was called Nookhooseii-koh’owu or “Sage Creek.”36 | Spiritual/Religious: Whole plant used for “all” ceremonials Commentary: Although not specifically identified by species, Ball Park in the Middle Park area, Colorado was called Nookhooseii-koh’owu or “Sage Creek.”38
Botanical Reference
Parts Documented: leaf, stem, Not specified in the literature, plant, Leaves, Whole plant
Distribution: Native to North American Plains; widespread regional distribution; Dry, open sites; plains to sub-alpine; Alaska to New Mexico