False Solomon’s Seal
Diitiidʔaaʔtx̣: ku.wi.k
Latin: Mainthemum racemosa
Description: This shrub grows up to 1 metre on singular stem. The leaves grow alternatively on either sides of the stem. The leaves are long with veins running from the base to the tip. The top of the plant is greeted with a cluster of small creamy white scented flowers. The flowers turn into fleshy round red berries. The berries sometimes are dotted with purple.
Harvest and Sustainability: Ku.wi.k is found in moist forests, streambanks, meadows, and clearings.
*Warning: Can be confused with False Hellebore (Veratrum album) which is highly toxic and deadly.
Uses: The berries are edible but extremely bitter, so they are not commonly consumed.
The young shoots and boiled roots can be eaten. The leaves and roots can be used as a poultice for sores, boils, and burns. A tea made from the roots helps treat rheumatism, a sore back, kidney trouble, menstrual disorders, and sterility, while the leaf tea is used as a contraceptive.
*Consume in moderation, as the plant can act as a strong laxative.
