American vetch
Fabaceae

American vetch

Vicia americana Muhl. ex Willd.

Indigenous Names: tȟasúsu, Ka-na-te’-ants
Habitat: Moist, open or partly shaded sites; plains to montane; southern Northwest Territory, Canada to New Mexico
Seasonality: Not given
Status: Native

Traditional Food Use

Lakota

The young leaves and flower buds are edible raw or cooked.

Medicinal Documentation

Lakota

An infusion of the leaves and roots is used to treat asthma in children. A decoction of the roots and leaves is used as a wash or poultice to relieve sore and swollen joints.

Ceremonial & Cultural Notes

Ute

No recorded use in the source. Pu-i-pi-um-av refers to the blue flower on the plant

Botanical Reference

Parts Documented: root, leaf, flower, bud, Not specified in the literature