Medicinal native plants and edible native plants in the Illinois and Lower Great Lakes region have a rich history of use. Plants such as echinacea, wild ginger, yarrow, black cohash, goldenseal, purple milkweed, prickly pear and even cut flowers all have some medicinal purposes.
Nature’s Pharmacy Unlocks a Wealth of Benefits
For centuries, people have turned to nature for healing, and native plants have played a crucial role in traditional and modern herbal medicine. In Northern Illinois and the Lower Great Lakes Region, medicinal native plants and edible native plants have a rich history, helping with everything from colds to digestive issues and even wound healing.
Whether you’re a home gardener, an herbal enthusiast, or simply curious about natural forms of wellness, here’s what you need to know about incorporating some common medicinal or edible plants and herbs into your wellness routine—a practice dating back a long time.
A Rich History of Medicinal and Edible Native Plants in the Region
The use of medicinal and edible native plants dates back thousands of years. Indigenous peoples of the Great Lakes region, including the Potawatomi, Ojibwe, and Ho-Chunk, utilized local plants for their healing properties long before the arrival of European settlers.
They developed extensive knowledge of the medicinal applications of native plants, passing down their wisdom through generations. Today, the interest in herbal medicine is experiencing a resurgence, with people increasingly seeking natural remedies to complement modern healthcare.
What Are Native Plants and Why Should We Use Them Medicinally?
Native plants are the plants that were here long before settlers. They are the plants that were not introduced by tourists, gardeners or anyone else either accidentally or on-purpose. Native plants to this region are well suited for medicinal use and readily available.
Native plants are known for a variety of benefits, including:
- Thriving in the local climate and soil conditions
- Requiring less maintenance compared to non-native species
- Supporting local pollinators and wildlife
- Providing sustainable, renewable sources of herbal remedies
For these reasons, in general, it’s a good idea to use native plants in your gardens, landscapes and other natural areas, especially edible native plants.
Notable Edible Native Plants With Medicinal Benefits of Northern Illinois and the Lower Great Lakes
There are a variety of medicinal native plants and edible native plants that offer an assortment of benefits. Below are a few and how they’ve historically helped people.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
Often called purple coneflower, echinacea is well-known for its immune boosting capabilities. It’s often used by herbal medicine practitioners to combat colds, flu, and infections. Echinacea stimulates the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Traditionally, Native American tribes brewed echinacea tea for infections and wounds long before the first settlers.
How It’s Used:
- Brewed as dried roots or flowers into a tea
- The leaves can be eaten
- Taken in tincture or capsule form for immune support
- Applied topically to wounds to promote healing
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
Wild ginger has long been used as a digestive aid and for treating colds and fevers. It’s known for reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and boosting immunity. The rhizome, which has a strong, spicy aroma, can be dried and ground into a powder.
How It’s Used:
- Steeped the root in hot water to make a soothing tea
- Used as an anti-inflammatory poultice for wounds
- Chewed raw root to alleviate nausea
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
This feathery-leaved plant has a long history of use for wound healing and fever reduction. Yarrow is known for antimicrobial properties and stopping bleeding.
How It’s Used:
- Crushed leaves applied directly to wounds to stop bleeding
- Brewed as a tea to reduce fever and inflammation
- Used in a tincture to support circulatory health
Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)
Black Cohosh is a plant found in this region that is traditionally used for women’s health. It’s thought to help alleviate menopausal symptoms and menstrual discomfort. Native tribes used it for treating pain and inflammation.
How It’s Used:
- Taken as a tincture or capsule for hormonal balance
- Brewed dried roots into a tea for pain relief
- Applied topically for joint and muscle pain
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Goldenseal is known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. It contains berberine, a compound with antibacterial and antifungal effects. Goldenseal can often be found as a supplement that is promoted to help with digestion, respiratory ailments, and other ailments.
How It’s Used:
- Drank as a tea to support digestion and immunity
- Applied topically to treat skin infections
- Used as a mouth rinse for gum health
Purple Milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens)
Purple Milkweed is an edible native plant that has been traditionally used for a variety of uses including a painkiller, pulmonary aid, and to treat diarrhea. The roots were even digested as a treatment for rheumatism and pleurisy. Shoots, buds, or pods can be cooked and eaten for some of these benefits as well.
How It’s Used:
- Steeped the leaves in tea to relieve coughs
- Sap used to treat warts and skin conditions
- Crushed leaves applied to relieve swelling
Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia humifusa) is an Edible Native Plant
Though not as common in Illinois as in other parts of the country, prickly pear cactus is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The pads and fruit are rich in vitamins and can be used to support digestion and skin health.
How It’s Used:
- Fresh pads eaten in salads for digestive benefits
- Applied gel from the pads to soothe burns and wounds
- Drank juice made from the fruit for an antioxidant boost
The Health Benefits of Cut Flowers
A vase filled with cut flowers can also have some significant benefits within your home. The fresh smell can create a calming atmosphere that helps to alleviate feelings of anxiety or depression.
Flowers can also boost your mood and lower stress levels. Some cut flowers such as lilies or chrysanthemums can even help purify indoor air by absorbing toxins and releasing more oxygen. At the very least, they are pretty to look at and can spruce up any room.
Common Questions About Using Medicinal Plants
Where can I learn how to safely use medicinal plants?
If you’re interested in using native plants for medicinal purposes, it’s important to do so safely. Consider the following resources:
- Herbalism courses through local botanical gardens or universities
- Workshops hosted by conservation organizations like The Nature Conservancy
- Books by reputable herbalists
- Consulting with a certified herbalist or naturopathic doctor
How long have people used plants for medicine?
Humans have relied on plant-based medicine for thousands of years, with records dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Chinese. Indigenous tribes in North America have been practicing herbal medicine for generations, adapting their knowledge to suit regional plant varieties.
Is herbal medicine becoming popular again?
Yes, there has been a growing interest in herbal medicine in recent years. With an increasing focus on holistic wellness, sustainability, and natural remedies, more people are turning to plants for complementary healthcare options. The rise of organic products and herbal supplements has further fueled this trend.
Are there any risks associated with using medicinal plants?
While many medicinal plants are safe when used correctly, it’s crucial to:
- Research potential interactions with medications
- Start with small doses to monitor for allergic reactions
- Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen
What Do You Need to Start?
If you’re looking to buy or grow the native plants that you would like to use, they can be found at a local and trusted nursery. If you have questions about how a plant is grown, a member of our friendly and experienced staff can help you. If you have questions about how a plant can help you or a family member, it may be a good idea to talk with an herbal medicine professional.
Learning More About Native Plants and Their Health Benefits
Native plants in Northern Illinois and the Great Lakes region offer a wealth of medicinal benefits that have been cherished for generations. By understanding their uses and applications, you can incorporate these plants into your wellness routine safely and sustainably. Whether you’re growing echinacea in your backyard, brewing wild ginger tea, or simply enjoying the beauty of cut flowers, edible native plants can provide both aesthetic and medicinal value to your life.
If you’re eager to learn more, consider joining local herbalism groups, visiting botanical gardens, and exploring the rich heritage of plant-based medicine that thrives in the Midwest.
Buy Your Native Plants from a Trusted Local Nursery
Native plants are an invaluable resource for beautifying our landscapes and enhancing our wellness. With a rich history of medicinal and edible uses, these plants add a tremendous amount of value to our lives.
They also require less maintenance than their non-native counterparts, making them an ideal choice for gardeners, landscapers, and herbal medicine enthusiasts alike. The rich variety of possibilities here in Illinois and the Lower Great Lakes region makes them an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative form of wellness. By taking the time to understand the medicinal value of these plants and herbs, you can get more from them. Our trusted team can help you answer any questions you may have about growing native plants. The Pizzo Native Plant Nursery encompasses 40 acres of restored wetland and prairie habitat in Leland, Illinois. Visit where to buy to learn more about ordering native plants for your project.