Yerba Santa
October is LatinX heritage month and we’re focusing on yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum and other subspecies), which translates to “sacred herb” as our plant ally. It is an evergreen shrub native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. While Eriodictyon californicum doesn’t grow natively in Colorado, other sub-species do, including Eriodictyon angustifolium.
Native people in the U.S. and Mexico have used yerba santa as medicine for thousands of years, and Spanish and other immigrants were quick to recognize its respiratory and other benefits. It’s an excellent ally for those of us dealing with seasonal congestion and lingering coughs. It helps to open the lungs and clear mucus, easing congestion. It acts as a decongestant, providing relief from seasonal allergies. Flavonoids in the plant soothe and strengthen irritated mucous membranes. Additionally, It can be used externally for minor cuts and bruises, and to soothe rash and bug bites.
In some native cultures, yerba santa is burned in ceremony to dispel negative energy, restore balance, and provide protection. It is also carried as a talisman for strength and safety.
This past weekend we served our new Sacred Herb tea blend (with yerba santa, mullein, mint, and ginger) following an incredible event organized by the City of Longmont Open Space to celebrate LatinX Heritage Month. The event included a walk at Button Rock to learn about native plants with cultural significance to latinx people in the area. While reflecting over tea, a woman shared in Spanish, which was translated for those of us who weren’t bilingual, “I’m from northern Mexico and it is so similar to the nature we saw today. It shows me that we didn’t cross a border, the border was put on us.”
Nature and plants like yerba santa show us that the lines we’ve created to differentiate “us” from “them,” are not real. We are all sacred beings on this earth with intrinsic value. We all need to find balance and healing in these difficult times and I am so grateful to our plant allies who teach us these lessons and help to keep us centered and healthy.
