What You'll Learn

This volume provides an in-depth look at how plants such as ginseng, goldenseal, and sassafras were used in both practical and ceremonial contexts. Discover how Native American tribes prepared remedies for fever, wounds, digestive issues, and pain. Learn which species served as sources for dyes, fibres, and food preservation. The historical quotations reveal not only the methods but also the reasoning and cultural significance behind each plant's use, offering a rich blend of botany and anthropology.

About This Book

First encountered by many at the University of British Columbia bookstore in the early 1980s, this book remains a sought-after resource for botanists, herbalists, and history enthusiasts. Authored by Charlotte Erichsen-Brown, it compiles centuries of observations on how Eastern Indian tribes and early settlers used native plants for medicine, food, and other purposes. Unlike modern field guides that summarize uses, this volume presents direct quotations from historical documents—spanning the 17th to the 19th centuries—giving readers unfiltered access to the original accounts. The result is an unparalleled window into the ethnobotanical knowledge of North America's indigenous peoples.

Key Features

• Over 500 pages of detailed historical references
• Covers hundreds of plant species native to eastern North America
• Direct quotes from primary sources, including early European settlers and Indigenous informants
• Organized by plant family for easy reference
• Includes common and scientific names, along with historical illustrations
• Indexed for quick lookup

What Makes This Historical Survey Unique?

Most plant use books offer modern interpretations or synthesized lists. This one takes a different approach: it lets the historical records speak. For each plant species, the author has gathered verbatim excerpts from explorers' journals, early medical texts, and tribal accounts. This method preserves the nuances and context of how plants were actually used, without the filter of contemporary analysis. Readers can trace how knowledge evolved over time and compare different sources side by side. It is a work of scholarship that doubles as a fascinating read for anyone curious about natural remedies and cultural history.

How Readers Have Responded

Those who have obtained this book often remark on its uniqueness and depth. Many appreciate the direct connection to original sources, noting that the book provides information not found in any other single volume. The compilation of rare historical documents makes it a treasure for serious researchers. Some readers initially expected more analytical commentary, but most come to value the raw historical data. The book has been praised as essential for anyone studying ethnobotany or traditional Indigenous plant use.

Important Note

This book is a historical reference and is intended for educational purposes. The information contained within reflects historical beliefs and practices, not modern medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any plant for medicinal purposes. Some plants mentioned may be toxic or have contraindications; the author's inclusion does not imply safety or efficacy. Use this book as a starting point for further research, not as a guide for self-treatment.