NPS Photo

Creosote

This plant had literally hundreds of medicinal uses. A tea made from the stems was a cure for colds, stomach cramps, constipation, and menstrual cramps. It was also a decongestant and a health tonic. Some groups used the tea as a treatment for venereal diseases. At the turn of the century, some settlers took creosote tea as a cure for tuberculosis.

The leaves were boiled and the vapor inhaled for respiratory problems. A dry powder made from the leaves was used on cuts, abrasions and burns, and the pain of rheumatism and sciatica was reduced by rubbing the area with a compound of crushed stems and water.