Botanical atlas
Starry False Solomon's Seal
Smilacina stellata
Long before it carried a Latin name, this arching little woodland plant was known and gathered by many Native American nations, among them the Blackfoot, Cheyenne, Iroquois, and Coast Salish peoples, who dug its slender rhizome for use as a poultice on wounds, boils, and sore joints. A decoction of the root was traditionally taken for stomach troubles and coughs, and among some communities it held a place in women's health, used to ease labor and support recovery after childbirth. Come spring, the tender young shoots were gathered and cooked much like asparagus, and the ripe berries, though used more sparingly, added a sweet note to the forager's table.
In tradition.
Long before it carried a Latin name, this arching little woodland plant was known and gathered by many Native American nations, among them the Blackfoot, Cheyenne, Iroquois, and Coast Salish peoples, who dug its slender rhizome for use as a poultice on wounds, boils, and sore joints. A decoction of the root was traditionally taken for stomach troubles and coughs, and among some communities it held a place in women's health, used to ease labor and support recovery after childbirth. Come spring, the tender young shoots were gathered and cooked much like asparagus, and the ripe berries, though used more sparingly, added a sweet note to the forager's table.
Traditional preparations.
The traditional first reach for a scrape, boil, or minor wound, applied directly to clean, unbroken-further skin.
Mash a small piece of fresh root (or a dried piece softened in a little warm water) into a soft paste. Spread it over the affected area, cover with a clean cloth, and leave in place for 15 to 20 minutes.
A mild, traditional infusion once taken for occasional stomach upset.
Simmer 1 teaspoon of dried, sliced root in 1 cup of water for about 10 minutes, then strain. Drink once, cooled to a comfortable temperature.
Safety.
Ripe berries contain saponins and can cause nausea or a laxative effect if eaten raw or in quantity, so they're best avoided by young children. The root was traditionally used to influence labor, so it should be avoided during pregnancy and while nursing.
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