Osha is the word for bear root in a Native American language and osha is referred to as Bear Medicine since the plants are eaten by bears for what appear to be medicinal purposes. Native Americans often observed that bears would seek out stands of osha and consume the plants roots directly after emerging from winter hibernation or when wounded or sick.
Osha (Ligusticum porteri) is an herbal plant native to the Rocky Mountains of North America and can befound at altitudes of up to 10,000 ft. It is a perennial growing in rich, moist soil often found in aspen groves,upland meadows or ravines. Osha is a relative of the European lovage plant and is a member of theUmbelliferae family, as is parsley and dill, and it has the same long thin hollow stalk with large divided leavesthat can reach to heights of 2 to 3 feet. The seeds and flowers are at the top of the plant and spread out inthe form of an umbrella, hence its Latin family name. This herb has white flowers and the seeds have a sweetand strong celery-like fragrance, as does the entire plant. The root is very hairy, brown on the outside andyellow on the inside.The plant has several other names: Chuchupate, Indian parsley, Porter’s lovage, mountain lovage, bearroot, bear medicine, nipo and Colorado cough root. Chuchupate is the common Mexican name for Osha andis said to be an ancient Aztec term meaning “bear medicine.” Bears respond to the herb like cats do to catnip.They will roll on it and cover themselves with its scent. Males have been seen digging up the roots andoffering them to females as part of a courting ritual.
Osha Root is a traditional remedy used by Native Americans for respiratory infections. Like other bitter herbs, Osha Root can limit indigestion, and increase appetite.
Where to purchase
http://www.redfoxtradingpost.com
Happy Healing
