Immensely popular in the UK, Canada and the US, "Nature's Weeds, Native Medicine" by Marie Miczak, D.Sc., Ph.D. (Lotus Press, WI USA) is destined to become a classic in the field of Native American traditional herbology. Unlike most books which are written by non-native individuals with only interview experience, Dr. Miczak's book contains information taken directly from her childhood and Mohawk/Cherokee ancestors. This lends a very personal feeling to the book and gives one a better picture as to what Native American herbal medicine truly is. Along with her native experience, Dr. Miczak attended Rutgers University College of Pharmacy and studied pharmacology and plant medicine which allows her to relate the complexities of botanicals and their healing actions.
"Nature's Weeds, Native Medicine" blends traditional thought with modern day medical findings, allowing one to see the validations of many native herbs including Godelseal and Echinacea. Specific plants are referenced with traditional uses, modern medical findings, medicinal properties and safety warnings. All botanicals have the possibility of being dangerous to certain individuals, be it through allergic reactions or preexisting medical conditions such as high-blood pressure. In the time of traditional native medicine, people did not have the possible risk of drug and herb combination interactions. Today, that risk is extremely real and can lead to real problems. For example, Mint should never be used if one is currently taking blood thinners such as Coumadin because it can cause prothrombin and excessive bleeding. Many may feel that because a certain herb was used extensively by native peoples for hundreds of years that it is completely safe but in today's times where many are taking prescription medication or even over the counter products, deadly interactions can occur. This is one of the major ways, "Nature's Weeds, Native Medicine" is different. It allows one to use traditional native American herbs in today's complex society safely.
In addition to the in-depth botanical descriptions and lovely illustrations perfect for wildcrafting, Nature's Weeds has wonderful native recipes which I have found to be very simple to make at home. Some of the recipes have been reformatted to fit today's lifestyle Hot Oil Treatments and Clover Blossom Bath Oil but others are very traditional such as the sweet grass blocks. Many variations are also given. My personal favorite is the Native Skin Nourisher:
1 Tablespoon honey, 1 Tablespoon of glycerin, 3 drops essential oil of lavender, 1/2 Cup chamomile tea / infusion. After mixing all components together apply to freshly washed skin as a nighttime nurisher.
You can read articles by Dr. Miczak in the national native newspaper "News from Indian
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