Ethnobotany 101

Strength of the Earth: The Classic Guide to Ojibwe Uses of Native Plants (2005)

by Frances Densmore

Introduction by Brenda J. Child

Originally published in 1928.

Very interesting and detailed descriptions of how Chippewa (Ojibwe) were dependent on and made efficient use of maple syrup and wild rice.

Many other plants were used for food, medicine, shelter, tools, etc.

"The strength of the Chippewa in conquering the Sioux and establishing themselves in new territory indicates that they were well nourished, that suitable food was available, and that it was prepared in a proper manner."

I wonder if there were deciding factors in the Chippewa-Sioux conflict other than food?

"An old man came to a lodge one winter night tired and cold. He said, 'Never mind, I have some medicine which will soon warm me.' He then took a packet from his bag, put a little of the contents in water and drank it. A few moments later he said, 'I have taken the wrong medicine; I shall die.' And in a few hours he was dead."

Odd anecdote illustrating the danger of carrying poisons among healing medicines.

"The early Chippewa understood the administering of both nourishment and medicine by means of an enema. The syringe was composed of the bladder of the deer."

Heh.

"Dogbane was used as a protective charm against evil influence or bad medicine."

I need to plant some dogbane.

The author includes two legends: Winabojo and the Birch Tree, and Winabojo and the Cedar Tree. Entertaining, but also illustrate how important these two trees were to the Chippewa.

Fascinating book, worth reading more than once.