Herb: Navajo Tea


Latin name: Thelesperma megapotanicum


Family: Compositae



Medicinal use of Navajo Tea:

The plant has been used in the treatment of children with tuberculosis. An infusion of the leaves and stems has been used as a "nervous stimulant". An infusion of the leaves and stems has been used as a treatment for the teeth.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
50 cm
(1 foot)

Habitat of the herb:

Sandy or rocky prairies and roadsides in Texas. Dry sandy soils in south-western S. Dakota.

Edible parts of Navajo Tea:

Flower buds. No more details are given. A tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves and flowering stems. When well made it is delicious, with just a hint of mint in its aftertaste.

Other uses of the herb:

A yellow dye is obtained from the flowers. Reddish-brown according to another report. A brown dye is obtained from the leaves and stems. An orange-yellow dye can be obtained from the boiled roots.

Propagation of Navajo Tea:

Seed - sow spring in situ, only just covering the seed. In dry weather the seed should be watered in. Division might be possible.

Cultivation of the herb:

Sandy or rocky prairies and roadsides in Texas. Dry sandy soils in south-western S. Dakota.

Known hazards of Thelesperma megapotanicum:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.