• Lower Cliff Dwelling

    Tonto

    National Monument Arizona

Brittlebush

Brittlebush

NPS Photo

Brittlebush

The branches make a quick fire. The resin is chewed like gum, used to waterproof pottery, and to attach arrowheads. It was heated and smeared on the body, especially on the chest and on the side, to relieve pain. The Spanish name is Incensio, since the resin was burned as incense, exhaling a strong penetrating fragrance.

The plant can also be used to treat allergies, certain kinds of arthritis, and to relieve poison ivy.

Did You Know?

artifacts

The inhabitants of the area in and around Tonto National Monument created beautiful pottery and textiles.  Many of the artifacts found here are on display in the museum.