Wild Edibles - Indian Paint Brush

Some Stuff on my Mountain

Indian Paint Brush

The flowers of Indian paintbrush are edible and sweet, and were consumed in moderation by various Native American tribes as a condiment with other fresh greens. These plants have a tendency to absorb and concentrate Selenium in their tissues from the soils in which they grow, and can be potentially very toxic if the roots or green parts of the plant are consumed. Highly alkaline soils increase the selenium levels in the plants. Indian paintbrush has similar health benefits to consuming garlic if only the flowers are eaten in small amounts and in moderation.  This is a nibbler.  Good to munch on as you walk in the mountains.  Just don't over do it kids.

The Ojibwa used a hair wash made from Indian Paintbrush to make their hair glossy and full bodied and as a treatment for rheumatism. The high selenium content of this plant has been cited as the reason for its effectiveness for these purposes. Nevada Indian tribes used the plant to enhance the immune system.

"Civilized" Humans sure lost a bunch of "primitive knowledge" when They killed off the Indian races and stole their land.  I post this in honor of my Indian Ancestors.  I am descended from Powhatan the Father of Pocohontos and Chief of the Powahatan tribe.

I'll post more wild edible stuff if you all are interested.  Let me know