Medicinal Plants of the Sonoran Desert Arlo Ogden naturalist, historian, park ranger, educator and veteran Educational Series

Learning Objectives Following this presentation, participants will: -Learn which desert plants maybe beneficial -Learn on collection and use techniques -Learn how to do a safety test

Collection Common sense in use Preparation Environment Tools: gloves, tongs, sharp knife, sunscreen, water Wildlife: snakes, scorpions, bees, javelinas Land issues (Homestead Act) Quantity: we are not the only ones using these plants

"If a little is good a lot has got to be great "Somebody told me" Use

References Medicinal Plants of the Desert and Canyon West Michael Moore Medicinal Plants of the American Southwest Charles W. Kane Indian Uses of Desert Plants James W. Cornett Google really doesn't know everything

Everyone is different and so is the reaction to plants. When in doubt TEST I personally do not use tincturing techniques other than water Know your plants Always consult a physician Pre-cautions

One of the most popular desert plants Originally from Africa (aloe 6K years) Where you find agave, you are likely to find aloe vera plants Aloe and burns, cuts, etc. Agave vs. Aloe

Cut leaf from the main plant Expose fleshy inner portionUse Rub on cuts, burns, and bites Preparation

Commercial varieties available Brittlebush in Pic ArthritisCollection Tools:Tools: Gloves Fruit (August & September) Remember the critters (desert tortoise) Fruit reminds me of watermelon Prickly Pear (nopales)

Reduces cholesterol Constipation (Fiber) As tea is good for urinary tract issues Raw pulp helps diabetics Use

Remove all spines and glochids Fire, cutting, scraping, freezing Cooked or raw Preparation

Mesquite

Always consult a physician Questions?