Bear Root
Bear root or Osha is a root that grows in the Rocky Mountain region and is part of the carrot and parsley family. It has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which may help with infections.
Health Benefits:
Pain relief
Antiseptic
Respiratory illness relief
Antiviral
Health Condition:
Cough
Congestion
Method of Use:
Chew
Ingest
Tea
Ceremony
Burn/Smoke
Topical Application
Alternative Names:
Ligusticum porteri J.M. Coult. & Rose var. porteri (Apiaceae)
Cultural Narrative
One community member tells a story about a wounded bear who stuffed its wounds with bear root flowers. She describes how bear root/osha is an important but endangered medicine for people in the Colorado region and beyond. She describes it as a strong root that grows above 7000 feet. She described it as being used for many ailments due to its antiviral properties such as altitude sickness or respiratory ailments. Another community member described how it can be used as an analgesic when chewed to relieve pain.
Bear root, also known as Osha, is one of many plants used for physiological and spiritual practices by Indigenous people of North America. Much of the information about plant usage is passed from one generation to the next through stories and ceremonies. The use of bear root is broad. It is often used to aid common ailments such as coughs, sore throats, indigestion, headaches, dizziness, sinusitis, bruises and open wounds, arthritis, cancer, and angina. It is commonly used in tea or tincture form to treat oxidative stress and inflammation. It may also be chewed to treat pain. The root can also be used for skin abrasions and wounds by turning it into a paste or liniment. When applied as an ointment on the skin, it will produce soothing warmth.
Content here is for informational purposes only. As with all medicines, please consult with your physician before use.