Plants and Connection

Included in this work are plants that carry both cultural and medicinal significance. Each plant is identified by its Salish name alongside its English name, recognizing both Indigenous language and Western naming systems. These names reflect more than translation; they hold relationships to place, knowledge, and ways of understanding the land. Along with each plant, I share how it has been used as medicine whether for healing the body, easing illness, or supporting spiritual well-being. By naming these plants in both languages, I want to acknowledge the knowledge passed down through elders and the continued connection between language, land, and healing.

q̓a̓wx̣e yellow bell
cough and congestion

nqʷeyqʷaýa̓ larkspurs
relaxant cough congestion

qpqpte Sage

słaq Saskatoon or service berry
sweet berry

x̣awitx̣aw shooting star
eye health, canker sores

sp̓eƛm bitterroot
cleans your blood, regulates blood pressure

p̓úxʷp̓xʷ biscuit root poulstice
sores, boils, bruises, rheumatoid arthritis

Prairie smoke

nkʷk̓ʷa yarrow
inflammation, fevers