These Texas Plants Were Used as Medicine for Centuries

You know how some people ask the question, "If you could instantly be an expert on something, what would it be?" Well, one answer off the top of my head is the ability to identify medicinal plants in the wilderness and to know how to prepare them for certain needs.

For instance, wouldn't it be so helpful if you were walking in the woods with a headache to instantly know what plant to look for in order to chew on the leaves to alleviate the pain? I'd feel like some druid-wizard in the wild!

Native American Use of Medicinal Plants

Well, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department did just that. They outlined 10 plants that were widely used by Native Americans due to their variety of medicinal properties.

Fun Fact: People who study Native American use of plants dating back thousands of years are called "ethnobotanists." From food, dyes, and oils to soaps, waxes and medicine, people have been testing properties of plants from generation to generation.

Medicinal Plants We Still Use

Did you know that many plants that are common in Texas are used in components that make popular drugs we use every day? According to TPWD, about a quarter of all prescription drugs contain at least one ingredient from a flowering plant found in nature.

For instance, Periwinkle and Pacific Yew have agents that we use in cancer-fighting medication today, and Foxglove is used in heart medicine for millions.

No matter what the reason, no matter what the condition, there is most likely a plant out there that can either cure you, lessen the symptoms, or at the very least numb any pain you may be experiencing.

Keep scrolling for the full list of medicinal plants found right here in the Lone Star State.

Isn't nature just the coolest?