Chaparrel
(Larrea divaricata)
creosote bush, greasewood, chaparro, dwarf evergreen oak
Description:
A perennial bush, 4-8 feet tall with dark green stems.
The strong scented leaves are opposite and divided into 2 leaflets
and can be yellowish-green in dry seasons. Flowers, appearing
in spring and winter, are yellow with 5 petals, and only 1/2
inch across. The fruit is rounded,covered with white hairs and
up to 1/4 inch long. Found in desert areas, alkali soil in southwestern
part of the U.S.
Medicinal:
It is a antiseptic, blood purifier, diuretic, expectorant, and
tonic. The leaves,and stems are used to help in acne, styes,
skin conditions of warts and blotches, arthritis, cancer, chronic
back- ache, hair growth, better eyesight, to increase bowel
elimination (not laxative), kidney infection, prostate gland
trouble, throat, bronchial pulmonary conditions and weight reducing.
Taken in capsules, according to directions. American Indians
sharpened the young branches, placed in fire till hot and inserted
into tooth cavities to relieve pain. The leaves and stems contain
gums, resins, protein, esters, acids, alcohol, small amounts
of sterols, sucrose and volatile oils. No alkaloids are detected.
It is non-toxic.
