Canadian Indigenous Medicines

These flashcards cover key concepts and information regarding Canadian Indigenous medicines, focusing on their significance, preparation methods, and associated cultural aspects.

What are some issues associated with the wider use of Indigenous medicines?

Issues include conservation efforts, treaty rights, and truth or reconciliation.

What types of preparations are commonly used in Indigenous cultures?

Common preparations include pastes, poultices, juices, powders, chewing, infusions, and decoctions.

What is the significance of the Boreal Forest in relation to Indigenous medicines?

Over 550 medicinal plant taxa have been identified in the Boreal Forest.

Name one common medicinal plant found in the Boreal Forest.

Achillea millefolium, also known as Common Yarrow.

What is the function of the active component in Indigenous medicinal preparations?

The active component is rarely identified and may rely on multiple synergistic activities.

Which plant is known as ‘Devil’s club’ and what are its properties?

Oplopanax horridus; it has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and possible anti-diabetic properties.

What plant is used in traditional Inuit medicine for treating cuts and eye infections?

Labrador Tea (Rhododendron tomentosum).

What is the purpose of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples regarding traditional medicines?

Indigenous peoples have the right to their traditional medicines and to maintain their health practices.

What role does the preparation method play in Indigenous medicines?

The preparation method can affect the efficacy and application of the medicinal plants.

What therapeutic properties does Common Yarrow possess?

It is anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and used for conditions like bleeding and respiratory disorders.

What is a poultice, and how is it used?

A poultice is a soft moist mass used externally to treat swellings and pain.

Which medicinal plant was introduced to North America in the 1600s?

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare).

What are the traditional uses of Tansy?

It is used for anti-fertility and to initiate menstruation or abortion.

What is Fracture Therapy in the context of Indigenous medicines?

It often involves using Yellow Pond Lily, known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

What is Germacrone and its significance in traditional medicine?

Germacrone is found in various plants and is noted for its anti-proliferative properties.

What ailments does Dwarf Willow (Salix herbacea) help treat?

It is used for analgesic purposes, particularly for toothaches.

What are common forms of preparations for remedies made of medicinal plants?

Preparations include paste, poultice, juice, powder, chewing, infusion, and decoction.

What are the sample molecular targets of Indigenous medicines?

Targets include anti-viral/anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

What are the therapeutic effects of the Yellow Pond Lily?

Anti-mycobacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

What is a decoction?

A decoction is made by boiling plant parts in water and using the extract.

Which Indigenous groups are mentioned in relation to the Boreal Forest?

Groups include Gwich'in, Dene, Cree, and Metis.

What are the Inuit Nunangat?

The Inuit Nunangat are the homelands of the Inuit populations in Canada.

What traditional healing method is used for sleep disorders in Indigenous cultures?

Hormone receptor agonists/antagonists are utilized.

What is the significance of active components in Indigenous medicinal preparations?

Active components may interact in complex ways, contributing to overall medicinal effects.

What kind of extraction method is often used for Labrador Tea?

An antibiotic and antiviral boiled leaf extract mixed with oil or fat.

Name an example of a therapeutic effect of Devil’s Club.

Anti-rheumatism and anti-tussive properties.

What does 'Indigenous knowledge' encompass in the context of medicines?

Indigenous knowledge includes traditional practices, beliefs, and uses of local flora and fauna for health.

How has land mass influenced the traditional uses of Indigenous medicines?

Indigenous medicines are often linked to local biodiversity and ecological practices related to the land.

What is the role of intellectual property rights in Indigenous medicinal practices?

Intellectual property rights seek to protect traditional knowledge and cultural heritage from exploitation.