Nodding Buckwheat (Eriogonum cernuum) is one of over 450 species of Eriogonum found in North America. Wild buckwheat is a different genus than the agriculturally cultivated European buckwheat and does not produce an edible grain. Wild buckwheats are none the less very important plants for Native American’s of the American Southwest. Some are important medicinal plants, such as Eriogonum elatum. Other Eriogonums are part of traditional tobacco mixtures.
The Eriogonum cernuum is an annual flowing variety. The hanging down flowers are arranged in stem clusters known as inflorescence with small white or pink-tinged flowers. This plant is a powerful ceremonial plant used against ‘the evil way ’- providing protection to its users.
In this next video, Grant Bulltail tells how the Crow used Wild Buckwheat, known to them as chíischia. Physically, it is used to clean and promote hair growth. For endurance, one eats a bit of the blossom or rubs it on legs, feet, and chest.
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