The Lakota name for Mirabilis means “plant to treat swelling.” And that’s exactly what it is used for. A simple poultice of the crushed plant can be applied to bumps, bruises, hangnails, even broken bones to speed up healing and take down swelling.
Linda Black Elk shows us it’s identifying characteristics of pretty purple flowers, opposite leaves (like the mint family), and round stems (unlike the mint family).
You don’t want to eat this pretty little plant!
You may also be interested in:
Blue Vervain Whether for autistic excitability or just for the out-of-sorts feeling we all get sometimes, a…
Bee Balm Monarda is its Latin name but also one of its common names especially when sold…
Broadleaf Plantain Leaves make an amazing poultice for wounds, especially slow-healing burns. The fresh leaves are simply…
Black Nightshade While commonly described as poisonous, this member of the nightshade family provides edible greens and…
Anise Hyssop This pretty perennial has a nice anise flavor with a minty freshness used as a…
Evening Primrose A plant medicine used to improve treat cardiovascular disorders and arthritis.
