Herb: Humboldt Mulesears


Latin name: Wyethia longicaulis


Family: Compositae



Medicinal use of Humboldt Mulesears:

A decoction of the roots has been used in the treatment of stomach aches. Externally, it can be used as a wash in the treatment of headaches and as a wash for inflamed and sore eyes. A poultice of the baked roots has been applied to rheumatic joints. A poultice of the dried powdered roots has been applied to burns and running sores.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
50 cm
(1 foot)

Habitat of the herb:

Open woods and exposed ridges, 800 - 1500 metres.

Edible parts of Humboldt Mulesears:

Seed - cooked. It can be used as a piäole or can be ground into a powder and used with cereals in making bread etc. Young leaves and stems - raw or cooked. Root - cooked. The N. American Indians dug pits in the ground which they lined with large stones. They then burnt a fire on top of the stones until the stones were hot. The roots were placed on these hot stones, sealed in with fern leaves and earth and then fermented for one or two days before being eaten.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse or cold frame in early spring. Use a very freely-draining compost, prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and plant out into their permanent positions when they are large enough. Careful division of the crown as the plants come into growth in spring.

Cultivation of Humboldt Mulesears:

Open woods and exposed ridges, 800 - 1500 metres.

Known hazards of Wyethia longicaulis:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.