big sagebrush
Asteraceae

big sagebrush

Artemisia tridentata Nutt.

Indigenous Names: Crow (Apsáalooke) documented use, pȟeží ȟóta tȟáŋka, Blackfeet (documented ethnobotanical use), Ma-av Ma-ap
Habitat: upland; plains; Prairies and semi-disturbed sites
Seasonality: summer; Not given
Status: Native

Traditional Food Use

Lakota

The young seed pods are edible after cooking.

Medicinal Documentation

Lakota

The pulverized root is made into a salve which is used to treat swollen wahíŋheya íphiye, glands. | Crow: Tea and washes used for colds, fever, and infections. | Blackfeet: Used for infections and fevers.

Ute

Decoction of leaves used as a medicine

Ceremonial & Cultural Notes

Crow

Purification and spiritual protection. | Blackfeet: Purification and protective rites.

Botanical Reference

Parts Documented: root, seed, seedpod, leaf, stem, Leaves

Distribution: Native to North American Plains; widespread regional distribution; Native Plains species; documented Crow use