2015, Pages 3–11
Chapter 1 – A Traditional Elder’s Anti-Aging Cornucopia of North American Plants
- doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-418680-4.00001-4
All
major biomes are represented in the expansive North American continent.
The continent has a rich and under-appreciated tradition of indigenous
uses of foods and medicines derived from the native plants. This chapter
features a discussion regarding the following cornucopia of plants,
selected by a Native American/Aboriginal Elder: Indian breadroot (Pediomelum esculentum (Pursh) Rydb.), gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa (Pursh) Dunal), Labrador tea (Ledum spp.), and blueberry (Vaccinium
spp.). These plants are selected for discussion due to their use or
promise in the prevention/treatment of ailments commonly experienced
with aging, and may benefit older adults when consumed. They are
presented in a way to illustrate both the traditional uses of the plants
(indigenous science) and the evidence in support of their bioactive
properties (Western science). This approach to the presentation of these
plants will allow readers a greater appreciation of Native North
American Traditional Medicine.
Keywords
- Indian breadroot (Pediomelum esculentum (Pursh) Rydb.);
- gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa (Pursh) Dunal);
- Labrador tea (Ledum spp.);
- blueberry (Vaccinium spp.);
- Native/Aboriginal
