I love these pictures Amanda sent this weekend. They are taking a family hike in Pipestone Canyon.
The yellow flowers that cover the Methow Valley hills so beautifully in the spring are called Arrowleaf Balsamroot. It is a North American species of sunflower, widespread across the West. A specimen was collected by the botanist Meriwether Lewis on their expedition in 1806. All of the plant can be eaten, although it supposedly tastes "bitter and pine-like." Native Americans used it for food and medicine, and the seeds were especially useful for oil.
"When taken internally, Balsamroot acts as a disinfectant and expectorant. Like Echinacea, it may also stimulate white blood cell activity. Topically, Balsamroot serves to disinfect, reduce inflammation, and enhance healing. Powdered Balsamroot leaves can be applied to the skin and covered with hot towels to heal burns and wounds, soothe eczema, and ease the pain associated with bruises and contusions. In a pinch, you can mash or chew the leaves, apply them to the injured area, and cover with another intact leaf. The powdered root makes a decent antifungal that can be applied as a poultice or salve to treat ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot. The root can be steamed and eaten or dried and pounded into flour or used as a coffee substitute."
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