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    Fuente: América indígena 1963 23(1)

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    Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehuán of southern Chhihuahua / Pennington, Campbell W.

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    Fuente: América indígena 1963 23(1)

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    130 views17 pages

    Medicinal Plants Utilized by The Tepehuán of Southern Chhihuahua / Pennington, Campbell W.

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    maria ines sgrazzutti
    Fuente: América indígena 1963 23(1)

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    MEDICINAL PLANTS UTILIZED BY THE TEPEHUAN OF SOUTHERN CHIHUAHUA CampBett W. PENNINGTON SUMARIO En este articulo describe el autor las varias enfermedades que afectan a los tepehuanos del sur del estado de Chihua- hua, grupo étnico de aproximadamente 5,000 indigenas de Jos cuales bien poco se conoce; entre cllos son las afecciones respiratorias las mas comunes y la pulmonia la mas temida. Como solicitan la consulta del matikami_o yerbero sélo cuan- do la enfermedad es muy grave, el tepehuano conoce por lo menos 47 familias de plantas medicinales de la region cuyos nombres indigenas son traduccién al tepehuano del término mestizo, lo que puede significar o que el tepchuano apren- dié recientemente el uso de ciertas plantas o bien que en su integracién al complejo mestizo ha ido abandonando los nom- bres indigenas antiguos. De esas plantas prepara y_ utiliza sus raices, hojas, flores, tallos y semillas en los usos medici- nales mAs comunes: como febrifugas, infusiones, purgantes, calmantes y emplastos. Tucked away in the rugged and inhospitable terrain of southern Chihuahua, southward of the Rio Verde and nortward of Guadalupe y Calvo, are about five thousand Tepehudn, descendants of people who fled to this remote region after participating in an unsuccessful rebellion against Spanish authority at Guadiana (the modern Du- rango City, Durango) in the early seventeenth century.’ Accounts of contemporary Tepehudn culture suggest that for the most part the Indians have been integrated within the mainstream of mestizo cultural life? This is not exactly so, for observations made by the writer during the spring and summer of 1960° demonstrate that although the Tepehudn are much like the mestizos in terms of such matters as dress and house types, the two groups differ greatly in certain aspects of their ways of life, particularly in regard to utiliza- tion of the natural environment of southern Chihuahua; and in no field of activity do the two groups, Indian an mestizo, differ so much as in the utilization of plants for medicinal purposes. Mestizos 1 Relacién de la fundacién y aumento y estado presente de estas dos misiones Nabogame y Baborigame, Circa 1750. 2 See particularly the account by Mason (1952, pp. 33-53), by far the most comprehensive summary of Tepehuén culture available at the pres- ent time. 2 The writer gratefully acknowledges the support of this period of field work by the American Philosophical Society and the University of Utah. América Indigena—Vol. XXIII, N* 1.—Enero, 1963. 32 América Indigena are familiar with most of the medicinal plants utilized by the In- dians, but seem not to make as much use of the plants as do the Tepehudn. Roots, leaves, stems and occasionally seeds and flowers, of a great variety and number of plants from at least forty-seven plant fa- milies are used by the Tepehudn in preparing poultices, infusions and teas that serve as medicine. Many unidentified plants are simi- larly used. Medicinal plants are utilized frequently without assistance, or knowledge of, the herb doctor, who is known as mattikami,* and who enjoys particular esteem in the Tepehudn community. However, the matikami is invariably consulted when there is serious illness, and always when the illness is severe enough to warrant the taking of several medicinal preparations. Medicines prepared by the mati- kami are prepared in private, in a particular olla, a small, handled container known as nakdsoli, a name derived from ndka (oreja) and séli, a canyon plant, the root of which is scraped and used in pre- paring a medicinal tea taken as a febrifuge. Respiratory infections are the most dreaded, and indeed the most prevalent, diseases among the Tepehudn, who make a rather sharp distinction between treatment of what is considered to be influenza (catarro), pneumonia (pulmonia), and the common cold, all of which are related to exposure, particularly in the cold and damp uplands, Pulmonia is held in great fear, and the Indians note that treatment with even their most effective medicines is rarely helpful in relieving the “tightness” of the chest (ie., the inability to expel phlegm) associated with this illness. Catarro is treated with a va- riety of medicines, and the Indians invariably recover, except when old and very feeble, Certain medicinal teas are considered efficacious in promoting the coughing up of phlegm associated with catarro, The common cold is accepted as something that is inevitable and is rarely treated, Fever is recognized, and is commonly associated with either catarro or pulmonia, and the various teas given to reduce fever are believed to, in the end, cure almost all cases of catarro, but not those of pulmonia. Two types of measles (sarampiin) are recognized, and in fact, appear in epidemic form in both canyons and uplands, often with fatal results for very young people afflicted with the more severe type, Medicinal teas prepared from many plants are given to reduce fever associated with measles. 4 Mr, Burton W, Bascom of Baborigame, Chihu the Indian terms used in this paper. a kindly checked Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudn 33 The modified form of smallpox (varioloide) is reported as oc- curring occasionally among canyon Tepehudn. The true smallpox has not appeared during the past forty years, apparently because of widespread vaccination by government doctors in the early 1920's, and because the schoolmaster at Santa Rosa vaccinated, or re-vac- inated, many young Indians about twenty years ago. Appearance of varioloide among the canyon Tepehudn is apparently the result of contacts between west coast people, who enter the Tepehudn country 5 traders or visitors, and the Indians. The apparently high incidence of venereal disease in western canyons may possibly be explained in the same fashion, The Indians apparently make no distinction bet- ween gonnorhea and syphilis in regard to medicinal preparations. A number of Santa Rosa Tepehudn are marked by enlarged masses upon the side or front of the neck, but whether these goitres reflect heredity or an iodine deficiency is not determined. The Indians apply poultices made from various herbs to newly developed goitres, but abandon treatment as the growth develops. Numerous plants serve as a base for preparing medicines to re- ve the ever-recurring rheumatism, and to assist in relieving dis- comforts associated with menstruation and childbirth. ’ I The western canyons abound in snakes, among which are two species of rattlesnakes, jddagi (cascabel) and dli (chiquito) jédagi (cascabel), and one coral snake (¢tikisi), that are known to be poi- sonous. Rattlesnakes are rare in the uplands proper, but the coral snake is widespread, particularly in rocky terrain, The Indians rarely open snakebite wounds, and depend upon application of poultices prepared from a variety of plants to effect a cure, There seem to be relatively few deaths from the bites of rattlesnakes, and the reason for this is obscure; certainly, the leg of many an Indian is marked by scars that developed as skin and flesh, infected by the bite of a rattler, sloughed off, The bite of the true coral snake is reported to always result in death, Indians living in the canyons apply lotions prepared from certain plants to areas of the body infected by scorption stings, which in themselves are rarely fatal, only exceedingly painful, Infections or inflammations that result from bruises or screatches are treated with lotions or poultices, Toothache is a common complaint among the Tepehudn, and various remedies are applied to relieve this particular discomfort, Of interest is the fact that, on the whole, the Tepehudn do not lose ad América Indigena their teeth, even in old age; there is no evidence of deliberate attempts to remove diseased teeth. During the winter season, a predominantly corn diet inevitably results in much constipation, and the Indians employ specific plants in preparing purgatives, The Tepehudn set broken arms or legs, but the result is not entirely satisfactory. Arm or leg is encased within poorly fashioned wooden splints for several weeks, and poultices and lotions prepared from certain plants are applied after removal of the splints. ‘The Medicinal Plants Polypodiaceae: Two species of Polypodiaceae® are commonly sought by upland Indians living near Llano Grande, for use in pre- paring a tea taken by women just prior to, and after parturition, The leaves of Asplenium monanthes are steeped in very hot water for about ten minutes, and this drink is cooled for a short time before it is drunk; some Tepehudn know this plant as calaguala or dli (chiquito) tipasai (calaguala), whereas other Indians know it as ne- grito and insist that two distinct species are involved. However, both negrito and calaguala are Asplenium monanthes, the difference bet- ween the two plants being that negrito, in its physical characteristics, reflects growth in a shady environment, under pine, whereas the calaguala reflects growth in a more open, sunny environment, A me- dicinal tea taken to alleviate severe rheumatic pains is made by boil- ing the leaves of Asplenium monanthes; this tea is always taken hot. Roots of Dryopteris pilosa, known among the Tepehudn as vivihi (en la ciénega) kokdfi (cucrvo) tara (pie or pata), are crushed and decocted into a drink that is believed to be effective in stemming the flow of blood at parturition, or in alleviation of menstruation pains, Equisetaceae: Well-watered stream courses in the Tepehudn coun- try of southern Chihuahua are marked by stands of a cola de ca- ballo (Equisetum laevigatum), the stems of which are used in preparing a tea taken to relieve stomach cramps. 5 I am indebted to Lincoln Constance, D. S. Correll, N. T. Mirov, Harold Moldenke, Gene Newcomb, Gerald B. Ownbey, Jonathan Sauer, T. O. Soine, Jason R. Swallen, John Tucker, B. L. Turner, H. A. Wahl, W. A. Weber, Robert L, Wilbur and C, B, Wood for identification of plants that serve in preparation of medicines among the Tepehudn. ® Pammel (1911, pp. 323-325) notes that several species of Equisetum Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudn 35 Pinaceae: The budding cones of ikui (Pinus arizonica), a very common pine in higher Tepehudn country, are crushed upon a rock and used in preparing a tea taken to reduce fever, or to alleviate coughing attacks. Fresh stems (wadi) of ibisdali (Pinus Engelmanni), yet another widely distributed pine in the uplands, are cooked and eaten as a cure for influenza (catarro). The mature stems are mas- bed and chewed as well.’ Gum from Pinus ayacahuite, which is Known as pipikami (muchas espinas) tikui (pino), is used as a poultice applied to wounds upon the feet. A gum irom the bark of Pinus Iciophylla, perhaps the dominant pine of the higher uplands, & esteemed as a treatment applied to sores of all kinds. Cupressaceae: A tdscate (Juniperus sp.) that is know as dli (chi- quito) gdyi (tdscate) suplies branches used in preparing a crude sweat bath. Branches of the tree are piled in the sleeping quarters of a house and fired. Water is then thrown upon the burning bran- ches, and a blanket is used to “drive” smoke towards an ill or infirm person, who is then covered with a blanket until he sweats. Gramineae: Canyon Tepehudn esteem the roots of otatillo (Miik- lenbergia dumosa), or ali (chiquito) tétoikami (carrizo 0 garrocha), for its use in preparing a tea taken to relieve stomach cramps. Bromeliaceae: Struthanthus diversifolius is a parasitic plant that appears in abundance upon oaks characteristic of middle canyon slopes near Santa Rosa. Mestizos know this epiphyte as toji or muérdago, whereas the Tepehudn refer to it as bultkadali (amarrar); its leaves are much utilized in preparing a tea taken by women experiencing difficulties during childbirth. Liliaceae: Seeds of a palma de San Pedro (Yucca decipiens), known everywhere as dyi, are mashed and added to warm water that is drunk as a purgative. Amaryllidaceae: The handsome yellow flowers of sabila (Agave bovicornuta), which appears abundantly upon canyon. slopes, are crushed and added to sap extracted by crushing the leaves of this plant, for use as a poultice applied to sores upon animals afflicted by worms. Sap from the leaves is also used for alleviating toothache, the sap being placed upon the check and held there by a rag for a few minutes, Salicaceac: White bark from alamillo (Populus tremuloides) is are poisonous when eaten by animals, and Muenscher (1947, pp. 24-26) spe- cifically notes that E. laevigatum contains poisonous properties. 7 N, T. Mirov informs me that these stems are an excellent source of vitamen C. 36 América Indigena used in preparing a tea taken by women to alleviate menstruation pains, to stimulate parturition, or as a tonic immediately after par- turition. Fagaceac: The bark of a mature oak, popuisoli (Quercus end- lichiana), which is a common oak everywhere in the Tepehudn coun- try, is boiled in preparing a lotion used as refreshing mouth wash. Scrapings from the bark of another common oak, tdi Cannas crassifolia), are much esteemed when used as a poultice applied to aching gums; the scrapings are held between the outer gum and the cheek for about thirty minutes. Chenopodiaceae: Ipasote or pattisai is a variety of Chenopodium ambrosioides that appears thickly along margins of well-watered arroyos in canyons, in areas of good soil along canyon streamways, and occasionally in warmer arroyos of the uplands. Everywhere, the Tepchudn use leaves of this chenopod in preparing a tea taken by women to facilitate parturition, and as a tea taken by humans afflic- ted with intestinal worms. Amaranthaceae: A tea taken to relieve stomach disorders is pre- pared from the leaves of tidnguis or kijoso (Alternanthera repens); roots of this plant are crushed and decocted into a drink taken to reduce fever. Nyctaginaceae: Tepehuin who live near Santa Rosa esteem sa- randa (Boerhaavia mirabilis) as a source of leaves used in preparing a very strong tea taken as a febrifuge. Ranunculaceae: A strong tea prepared by boiling the leaves and stems of paloma consulta (Thalictrum Fendleri), a plant that appears abundantly in the pine-clad uplands near Baborigame, is taken to relieve stomach cramps, or drunk as a febrifuge, Canyon Indians seek this plant in the uplands, for use in preparing a lotion that is said to be valuable in reducing fever; the patient is bathed repeatedly in this lotion, Upland Tepehuan favor a tatdmu (diente or muela) doadigami (remedio), a species of Ranunculus, as a source of roots which are mashed upon the mefate and placed upon sching gums. Magnoliaceae: Flowers from a handsome magnolia tree (Magno- Ha Schiedeana), which occurs frequently along wellwatered erroyos upon middle canyon slopes, are used in preparing a tea taken to alleviate stomach pains. Lauraceae: The aguacate (Persea americana) is cultivated to some extent by sophisticated Tepehudn of the canyons, but for the most part the tree occurs in the wild state: mestizos know this tree as laurelillo, whereas the Indians invariably refer to it as gtirudusi, Seeds Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudén 37 of the immature fruits are crushed and used in preparing a medi- Gmal tea taken to alleviate diarrhea. The seeds are also used in preparing a poultice, which is crushed and placed between cheek and aching gums for about ten minutes, or is applied to a goitre. Pulp from the mature fruits is mashed and placed upon wounds or in- flammations. Papaveraceae: Mestizos and Tepehudn living in canyons near Llano Grande know a princkly poppy (Argemone ochroleuca subsp. echroleuca) as cardo; this plant appears in profusion in sandy stret- ches along streams. A milky excresence from the stalk serves as a lotion for killing fleas upon humans and animals. Seeds of this cardo are crushed and added to warm water which is drunk as a purga- tive. Leaves of a palo del diablo (Bocconia arborea), which is com- mon in canyons near Llano Grande, are moistened and crushed for use as a poultice applied to sores, wounds and goitres, The crushed leaves are also held upon the forehead to relieve headache. Scrapings of the bark of this tree are used in preparing a tea taken to relive stomach upsets, and the scrapings are also applied as a poultice to cure styes. A field poppy (Papaver rhoeas), that apparently repre- sents an introduction from Eurasia,$ and which appears in cultivated fields near Santa Rosa, supplies flowers that are boiled in preparing 2 tea given to quiet fever-stricken people. Cruciferae: Tepehudn ig near Llano Grande use the seeds of a cultivated mostaza (Brassica campestris), another introduction from Eurasia,’ in preparing a tea taken as a febrifuge. Seeds of a common pepper-grass (Lepidium virginicum), that grows profusely in fields near Santa Rosa, are used in preparing an atole given to very sick people. Some Indians note that a tea made from the stems of this tentajilla is valuable when taken as a febrifuge. A common water- cress (Nasturtium officinale), presumably and introduction from Eu- rope,” and which is known among mestizos as berro, and among the Tepehuin as mura (mula) sisaka (herraduras), is used in preparing a tea taken to relieve influenza. Crassulaceae: A siempre viva (Echeveria simulus), a rather com- mon shrub that appears in canyons throughout the Tepehudn coun- try, is known among mestizos as yedra grande or yedra del monte, and among the Indians as tumdmara, Although its leaves are reported 8 Fernald, 1950, p. 681. © [bid., p. 708, 40 Ibid. p. 716. we Rte 38 América Indigena to be very paisonous when eaten by stock, a tea prepared by steeping small quantities of the leaves is taken to relieve discomfort associated with catarro, Rosaceae: Mestizos who live near Llano Grande now Potentilla Thurberi as clameria or yerba colorada, whereas the Indians know the plant as tatému (diente or muela) sisimuli (a dormir); the in- terior of the roots of this plants is crushed and placed between the cheek and aching gums, or, the entire plant is crushed and used in preparing a tea taken to relieve intestinal disorders. A fresa or ibisi (Potentilla sp. of. exsul) supplies leaves used in preparing a tea esteemed as a febrifuge. Leaves of the widely distributed capulin pequefia or tikusi (Prunus capuli) are crushed and placed upon scratches, stings or inflammations. Leguminosae: Santa Rosa Tepehudn esteem a vinola (Acacia co- chilicantha), commonly known as 3uSigai (dolor) doadigami (reme- dio), as a source of leaves used in preparing a tea taken to relieve chest pains, or when urinating is difficult. Occasionally, the crushed Jeaves of a lechuguilla de la sierra (Senecio sp.) are added to make this tea more effective. Santa Rosa Tepehudn favor the use of bark (komédi) from an algarroba (Acacia pennatula) in preparing a de- coction taken to ease discomfort caused by venereal disease; bark from the side of the tree upon which the sun rises is preferred. Cassia leptadenia is a plant that occurs in profusion among stands of oak in the vicinity of Santa Rosa, and a medicinal tea taken as a febrifuge is prepared by boiling the entire plant for a few minutes. The Santa Rosa Tepehudn favor utilization of leaves of a yerba de la pulga (Dalea sp.) in preparing a poultice applied to fleas upon humans. A handsome flowering legume, Erythrina flabelliformis, appears conspicuously upon rocky canyon slopes everywhere in the Tepehudn country; this plant is known as colorin or chilicote, and its seeds are much used, in very small amounts however, in preparing a purgative, Lathyrus vernus, a vetchling which is apparently an introduction from Europe, is known among Tepehudn as misitu (gato), ndka (oreja), and among mestizos as oreja del gato. The entire plant is crushed and applied as a poultice to infected areas or to wounds, The widely distributed Lysiloma Watsoni, known as tepeguaje or gigi (grande), sdkoi (tepeguaje), is a favored source of bark used in preparing a wash to cure sore gums, Water in which scrapings of the bark have been boiled is cooled, and then held in the mouth for a few minutes, A sweet smelling trébol (Me- 3. Darlington and Janaki Ammal, 1945, p. 159. Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudn 39 ‘Sete: indica), presumably an introduction from Eurasia,*® is found sleee canyon streams everywhere. This plant is frequently used in preparing a tea taken as a febrifuge, and its leaves are often utilized = a remedy for headache, the leaves being dampened and held spon the forehead for a short time. Psoralea pentaphylla is known Sy upland and canyon Indians as contra yerba, and its leaves are widely used in preparing a tea taken to reduce fever. Another contra yerbe (Psoralea sp.), which is apparently restricted to the uplands, & Similarly used. Ojo de chanate (Rhynchosia pyramidalis) is known emong Indians as draiSi (chanate) pupiji (ojos): its black and white seeds are crushed upon the metate and added to water which is eunk to alleviate pain from internal injuries resulting from falls. The seeds and roots of this plant are crushed, moistened and applied =a poultice to cure inflammations. A yerba del piojo (Tephrosia sicaraguensis) is much used by upland Tepehudn in preparing a ‘eten for animals and humans afflicted with fleas; the lotion is prepared by soaking the entire plant for a few minutes. Yerba de la sibora (Zornia diphylla), or kéi (vibora) vasdgadi (yerba), is es- seemed by Llano Grande Tepehudn because the entire plant is thought % be very valuable in preparing a tea taken to relieve pains caused by gripe. Oxalidaceae: A tiny wood-sorrel (Oxalis albicans), known as so- coyolle among mestizos and dli (chiquito) ko (agrio) among the Indians, is boiled in preparing a tea taken as a febrifuge. Euphorbiaceae: A yerba de la golondrina (Euphorbia maculata) & esteemed by canyon Tepehudn because of its value in preparing 2 lotion applied to aching feet, and in cleaning sores, wounds and inflammations, The whole of this plant is boiled in an olla of water for ten or fifteen minutes, and the water is set aside to cool before being used as a lotion or cleansing agent. Hura crepitans is known among the Indians as bokuripi and amond mestizos as tescalama; gum from this tree, which is apparently restricted to the canyons, %s much utilized in preparation of a poultice placed upon the body to relieve pains from internal injuries or stings, This poultice is also applied to budding goitres. The gum is sometimes used in preparing 2 purgative, however in small amounts; a bit of the gum is added so warm water which is immediately drunk, Upland Tepehudn collect a contra yerba (Poinsettia radicans) for use in preparing a tea saken as a febrifuge. The castor bean (Ricinus communis) appears conspicuously along streams of deeper canyons near Santa Rosa. 22 Fernald, 1950, p. 895. eR A tte 40 América Indigena Upland Tepehudn gather leaves of this higuerilla or mukuk: li for use in preparing a poultice applied to goitres or inflammations; the canyon Indians utilize the leaves in a similar fashion, but in addition, commonly crush the seeds for use in preparing a purgative, An ortiguilla or vijuli (Tragia nepetacfolia) is esteemed because of its usefulness in preparing a lotion applied to the body of a person suffering from fever; this lotion presumably induces sweating. Rhamnaceae: Canyon Tepehuin gather bark of cacachila (Kar- winskia Humboldtiana) for preparing a tea taken to reduce fever: the bark is boiled in about a quart of water for several hours, and the tea is taken hot or cold. Vitaceae: Throughout the Tepehudn country, the leaves of uva cimarréna (Vitis arizonica) or bakdmai (troje) bixiparagai (envol- ver) are used in preparing a poultice applied to scratches. ‘Malvaceae: A malva (Malva rotundifolia), which is presumably an introduction from Europe, occurs conspicuously in fields near Santa Rosa; the entire plant is used in preparing a febrifuge. Upland Tepehuan utilize Malva viscusaboreus in a similar fashion. Yet anot- her malva (Sida cordifolia), which grows in profusion along borders of cultivated fields near Santa Rosa, is valued for its use in preparing a strong tea taken as a purgative. Sterculiaceae: Santa Rosa Tepehudn boil the bark of a gudsima (Guazuma ulmifolia) in preparing a drink taken to relieve shortness of breath. Yerba del pastno (Waltheria americana ?) is a common plant that occurs along water courses near Santa Rosa; the whole of this plant is boiled in an olla for about an hour, and after being cooled, the water serves as a lotion which is applied to wounds or inflammations. Fouqieriaceae: Mestizos who live in the canyons know Fouquieria fasiculata ? as torote or ocotillo, whereas the Tepehudn know this plant as tarakovara; seeds of tarékovara are highly esteemed because of their use in preparation of a poultice placed upon aching gums, between the cheek and gums; the flowers are eaten to cure throat disorders. Onagraceae: A large-flowered variety of Oenothera rosea is known by mestizos as amapola or yerba del golpe, and by Tepehudn as bitusi (amapola) tilidi (abuelo); the entire plant is used in pre- paring a tea taken to relieve stomach upsets.** 13 Ibid., 1960, p. 100 14 The Tepehudn do not confuse this “grandfather” of the emapola wit bitdsi, a small-flowered variety of Oenothera rosea that is used as a condiment, Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudn 4 Cistaceae: Juanita (Helianthemum glomeratum) is a low, spre: img herb, the stems of which are much used by upland Tepehuan im preparing a tea taken to relieve diarrhea. Umbelliferae: Canyon Tepehudn utilize leaves of a yerba del sapo (Eryngium Hemsleyanum), or bdbadi (sapo) vasdgadi (yerba), i preparing a tea taken to alleviate rheumatic pains, The tiny Eryn- Sum Rosei, or kokoida (espiritu) Sivoradi (destiachado), is much sought by Tepehudn everywhere, for it is believed to be exceedingly valuable in preparing a tea taken to relieve heart palpatations. Ericaceae: A manzanilla (Artostaphylos pungens) occurs in pro- fusion in eastern and southeastern Tepehudn country, but only sp: sely near Nabogame and Baborigame, and not at all in the v canyons. However, leaves of this plant are widely traded throughout the Tepehudn country, and are much esteemed for use in preparing a tea taken to relieve discomfort resulting from colds, or drunk as a stimulating beverage. Primulaceae: The scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis), which & presumably an introduction from Europe,” occurs conspicuously in plowed fields near Santa Rosa, and is considered of value for use in preparing a tea taken to relieve catarro. Loganiaceae: A butterfly bush (Buddleia sessiflora) known as te- posdn is much esteemed because its leaves and bark are believed to be of value in preparing a tea taken by women to alleviate mens- truation pains, The Tepehudn who live near Llano Grande use leaves, bark and roots of teposin in preparing a tea taken to relieve stomach disorders; crushed and moinstened leaves serve as a poultice which is applied to wounds. The palo ccnizo (Buddleia tomentella) common to the Tepehudn country, and which is known among In- dians as kokéma (gris) i3i (palo or drbol), supplies leaves used in making a tea taken to relieve discomfort caused by diarrhea. Asclepiadaceae: Indians living near Santa Rosa know Asc/ hypoleucus, a rather widely distributed milkweed, as su nado) nékadi (oreja). The entire plant is utilized in preparing a weak tea taken to relieve discomfort caused by stomach disorders, whereas a very strong tea prepared with the leaves serves as a pur- gative. Yet another milkweed, Asclepias Linaria, known as dli (chi- guito) okdga (se parecen a las hojas de los pinos), occurs in profusion in the higher pine-clad country, particularly near Llano Grande, where it is found in poor and rocky soil, The plant is exceedingly poisonous, according to all reports, but a few of its leaves are utilized Femald, 1950, pp. 1142-1143, M 3 mM AMA Od Ube 42 América Indigena in preparing a tea taken to induce vomiting when someone expe- riences stomach cramps, Greater amounts of the leaves are used in preparing a very potent purgative. Some Tepehudn state that the crushed leaves are effective when used as a poultice for headache, the leaves being placed upon the temples and held there by a cloth band. A contra yerba de la sierra (Asclepias sp. af. quinquedentata) serves in preparing a febrifuge. ; Polemoniaceae: Upland Tepehuan who live near Baborigame prepare a favorite febrifuge from leaves of a yerba del coyote (Lep- todactylon sp.). A very strong tea taken to alleviate chest pains or to arrest fever is prepared by canyon or upland Tepehudn from the leaves of a guachichile (Loselia sp.); fresh leaves of this totdsada- mali are often moistened with hot water and placed upon the back of a Mother who has difficulty in providing milk for her infant. Verbenaceae: Canyon Tepehudn gather leaves of a common ver- bena (Verbena ciliata) for use in preparing a weak tea taken as a febrifuge. The Indians everywhere prepare a tea from verbena or alfrombrillo (Verbena elegans var, asperata) as a remedy for stomach disorders and catarro. Lowland Tepehudn use a poultice made from crushed leaves of a species of Verbena as a certain cure for cuts that will not heal; this species of Verbena is also crushed, salted and eaten to relieve severe stomach cramps. Labiatae: Mentha canadensis is a wild mint that occurs conspi- cuously along upland streams; the plant is known as poléo, and a tea prepared from its crushed leaves is taken to alleviate stomach pains. Solanaceae: The common Jimson weed is known among mestizos as toloache (Datura stramonium), and among the Tepehuan as to- kéraki; its eaves are much esteemed for use in preparing a poultice applied to the forehead to relieve headache. The leaves are also heated and placed upon inflammations. Older Indians maintain that not long ago its leaves were used in preparing a decoction taken to relieve diarrhea, A warm-country saca manteca (Solanum madren- se) is much utilized in preparing a poultice applied to inflammations; the leaves of this plant are also used in preparing a lotion applied to scorpion stings. Solanum nigrum, which is presumably of Euro- pean origin," and which is known everywhere as chichiquelite, sup- plies leaves that are utilized in the spring for preparation of a strong tea taken by humans suffering from intestinal worms, A lotion made 16 Ibid, p. 1253. Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudn 43 Seem: the leaves of this plant is applied to worm sores upon human ex animal. Yet another chichiquelite (Solanum podiflorum) is simi- ‘eel employed. The Tepehudn who live in and near the Arroyo de Mipillas frequently collect the leaves of a species of Solanum that = considered to be extremely effective in curing toothache; the fresh Sees: are crushed and placed between check and gum, A tea pre- ered from the leaves of this plant serves as a febrifuge, Serophulariaceae: Mestizos and Tepehuan know a Castilleja sp. = chupén, and frequently collect the plant for use in preparing a ®= taken to stimulate urination. Mimulus guttatus appears as a com- ‘sen plant throughout the Tepehuén country, where it is found in sballow water and in damp meadows, It is known as berro or stidagi fecua) mamaradi (crece en el agua), and a tea prepared by boiling she entire plant in a small amount of water for about ten minutes & an esteemed febrifuge. Plantaginaceae: The Tepehuén who live immediately westward ef Chinati collect roots of a lantén (Plantago sp.), commonly known ss Hifiakali, for use in preparing a favorite remedy for fever, The seots are crushed upon a metate and boiled in a small amount of water for about ten minutes. This water is then strained through loosely woven basket and drunk while still warm. Rubiaceae: Courtarea pterosperma, a common copalquin that cccurs in western canyons, is known among the Tepehudn as civil oli; its bark is much valued because of its use in preparing a tea taken to reduce fever, and as well, for the relief of influenza. This sea serves also as a lotion for cleansing sores resulting from snake bites. Upland Tepehudn seck the leaves of a yerba del coyote (Ga- um sp.), or bénai (coyote) vasdgadi (yerba), for use in preparing 2 tea drunk to relieve stomach disorders. Lobeliaceae: Guadalupe (Lobelia laxiflora) is a widely occuring erroyo plant in the uplands, and its leaves are collected and placed between the check and gum to relieve toothache. Caprifoliaceae: Satico (Sambucus caerula) is a small tree, distin- guished by very handsome yellow flowers that are much sought in preparing a tea taken as a febrifuge, This tea is also believed to “cure” heart trouble. Crushed young leaves of this satico are utilized in preparing a poultice applied to cuts or bruises. Compositae: Artemisia mexicana, which is known simply as al- canfor, occurs in relatively open areas amidst the pine forests of the uplands, and the entire plant is used in preparing a tea taken to ease discomfort caused by colds, Upland Tepehudn make much use 44 América Indigena of a yerba del pasmo (Aster intricatus) in preparing a poultice ap- plied to bruises and wounds. A coronilla (Berlandiera sp.) is widely utilized by Tepehuan living near Baborigame in preparing a decoc- tion taken to relieve stomach disorders; its roots are crushed and boiled in a small amount of water for about fifteen minutes. A com- mon upland meadow plant, Bidens ferulaefolia ?, which is known as té, is favored by both mestizo and Tepehudn because of its use in preparing a tea taken to relieve stomach cramps. The whole of an upland yerba del pasmo de la sierra (Brickellia laciniata) is crushed upon the metate, or upon any convenient stone, and applied as a poultice to reduce swelling or inflammation, Chromolepsis heterophylla is a small arroyo plant known as f£oli (peyotl) vdpoi (lana); the root of this plant is characterized small “buttons”, which resemble a peyote plant, and these small “buttons” are used in preparing a poultice applied to an infant's navel when the umbilical cord is cut. The Tepehudn who live west- ward of Chinati esteem a Sindka (Cirsium mexicanum), the roots of which are crushed and boiled for a short time in preparing a drink taken to reduce or to relieve chest pains. Franseria acanthicarpa, which is common to uplands and canyons, is known as estafiate among the mestizos and as tudvusi among the Tepehuin. A tea made from the leaves of this plant is taken to relieve stomach upsets; the leaves are also crushed and applied as a poultice to inflammations, The entire plant is occasionally heated near the fire and is then sat upon by a person suffering from diarr- hea. Women who are experiencing difficulty in parturition dri a tea made from the leaves of chicura or cikuli (Franseria sp.). a widely distributed shrub in canyons near Santa Rosa. Upland Te- pehudn esteem the leaves of a manzanilla del rio or gordolobo (Gna- phalium Maccounii), which is also known by its Indian name, (libiano) yo¥igai (flor), for its use in preparing a tea taken to relieve heart pains. The leaves and flowers of this manzanilla del rio are much utilized in preparing a tea taken to relieve coughing spells, Canyon Indians utilize the leaves of another manzanilla del rio (Gnaphalium sp.) in preparing a decoction taken to relieve stomach disorders or dysentary. The tiny herb, Hieracium Fendleri, known cither as oreja del gato or miitu (gato) néka (oreja), is crushed and used as a poultice applied to infected areas and wounds. Upland Tepehudn who live near Baborigame prepare a medicinal tea taken as a heart stimulant from the leaves of a lechuguilla (Senecio sp. af. accinella). Indians Medicinal plants utilized by the Tepehudn 45 Swing near Llano Grande know Stevia stenophylla as yerba de la sen or as cuvai (hielo) vasdgadi (yerba), and use the plant in preparing a poultice applied to broken bones, A tea taken to relieve stomach disorders is made by Santa Rosa Tepehudn from the entire plant of Tagetes jaliscana, a small shrub that grows conspicuously spon canyon slopes. A yerba del aire (Trixis sp. af, radialis) is known among the Tepehudn as ivili (aire) yosigai (flor); its roots are much used in preparing poultices applied to broken bones, and its crushed flowe are placed in the ear to relieve earache, Zeamenia podocephala is known either as pionia or gogdti (perro) vitdi (excremento), because the bulbous roots resemble dog dung. Indians who live near Llano Grande crush the roots of this plant and add the crushed materi so warm water than is taken as a purgative, although the root is claimed to be very poisonous except when used in small amounts. Usnaceac: Upland Tepehudn know a common lichen (Parmelia ulata) as édi (piedra) yosigai (flor), whereas the mestizos know chen as flor de piedre. Both Indian and mestizo utilize the lichen in preparing a tea taken to relieve discomfort caused by Lidney disorders or by venereal disease. The tea is commonly pre- a in late afternoon and is set aside for one night before bei drunk, Unidentified specimens: Santa Rosa Tepehuén prepare a medi-

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