Medicinal Plants in Arkansas

Mountain View, a small town in Stone County, Arkansas, is home to Ozark Folk Center (ozarkfolkcenter.com). The center was built in the 1970s as a place to hold permanent records of the folk lore of the Ozarks. In the center, you can witness examples of the vanishing way of life once common in the Ozarks. Before doctors came onto the scene, isolated communities relied on herbal medicines, and many plants they used are still used to this day.

Elder

• The Elder was traditionally known as Nature's Treasure Chest. An infusion made from the dried flowering tops tones the mucous lining of the throat and nose, rendering them more resistant to infection. It also promotes mild perspiration, which helps reduce fever. The same infusion is good for chronic catarrh and ear infections. Elderberries are rich in vitamins A and C, and are mildly laxative. They can be taken to assist rheumatism and are used to make a tonic wine.

White Willow

• The dried bark of the White Willow is rich in salicylic acid, which is the predecessor for aspirin, first isolated in 1838. It has been used as a tincture for thousands of years to relieve joint pain caused by rheumatism or arthritis and to manage fevers. Unlike aspirin, it does not thin the blood or irritate the lining of the stomach. The tincture is analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic and an astringent.

Black Walnut

• The black or green hulls of the black walnut can be used in a poultice to treat ringworm and other fungal skin infections. It can also be used internally to get rid of intestinal worms and other parasites, but should not be used during pregnancy. Chewing the inner bark is said to reduce toothache, and when made into a tincture, can be used as a laxative.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal was much prized in the 19th century as a cure-all. It was used by the Cherokee and other Native American tribes, who passed on its uses to the early settlers. A lotion made from the roots and rhizomes was used for treating wounds and ulcers, and for inflamed eyes. Internally, it was used for liver and stomach problems. One of its constituents, berberine, has a sedative action on the central nervous system, and canadine stimulates the muscles of the uterus.

Poke Root

• Poke root was extensively used by both Native Americans and settlers as a poultice for ulcers, sores and tumors. It was used internally to reduce pain and to induce vomiting. The root has also been used for respiratory infections, swollen glands and chronic infections. Caution should be taken when using this plant, as it can be highly toxic if not taken in the correct dose. It should never be used during pregnancy.

Sassafras

• Sassafras was once the second largest export to Europe after tobacco, but is recently the subject of controversy, having been banned from commercial use by the FDA. The roots were used by early settlers to flavor root beer, and a cup of tea made from its roots was used as a tonic. The oil is used in aromatherapy. The plant is said to have carcinogenic properties.