Native American Use for Plants

Question 1

Oaks (Quercus sp.)

Answer 1

Acorns were the primary food source for a number of California Indians. Acorns were collected, leached with water in stream and basket to remove tannins (Wine) then heated with rocks for mush.

Question 2

Elderberry (Sambucus sp.)

Answer 2

One of the richest sources of vitamin C! Stems used for arrow shafts and flutes. Raw berry can cause nausea but dried or cooked are OK.

Question 3

Laurel Sumac (Rhus sp.)

Answer 3

Indians would use the leave as a mosquito repellent. Lemonade Berry (Rhus intergrifolia) has berries that are soaked and hairs removed to make pink lemonade.

Question 4

Yucca, Our Lords Candle (Yucca sp.)

Answer 4

The leaves are very strong and used for water proof baskets. The leaves were used as a needle and thread to make clothes and homes. The root is used for soap.

Question 5

Cactus (Opuntia sp.)

Answer 5

The red fruits are edible but watch for very small spines. The green leaf can be cooked and eaten and is still commonly done in LA.

Question 6

California Coastal Sage (Artemisia californica)

Answer 6

Burned for ceremonial reasons.

Question 7

Willow (Salix sp.)

Answer 7

The leaves of willow is what they make aspirin from and the Indians would chew them for toothaches.

Question 8

California Buckeye

Answer 8

The seeds were ground to fine dust and put in the stream to catch fish.