By Scout Nelson
For generations, Indigenous peoples have used sweetgrass and white sage for medicine, ceremonies, and daily needs. These native prairie plants of the Northern Great Plains, including South Dakota, offer unique benefits and are easy to grow with care.
Sweetgrass, known for its sweet, vanilla-like scent, grows near wetlands and streams. It serves many purposes — from basket weaving to tea for sore throats, infections, and congestion. Sweetgrass is also burned in ceremonies. Its key compound, coumarin, helps reduce inflammation and swelling. However, people taking blood thinners should consult a doctor before using sweetgrass for health reasons.
Apart from health uses, sweetgrass keeps closets and drawers fresh and even repels mosquitoes. It is a cool-season perennial that grows best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. It’s hard to grow from seeds, so planting transplants works better. The best time to harvest is late June to early July, but not during the first year of planting.
White sage, often called white prairie sage, also holds strong cultural and medicinal value. Used by Indigenous communities, it helps with stomach aches, headaches, sinus problems, sores, and arthritis pain. It also works as a deodorant and insect repellent. Ceremonially, it is burned for cleansing.
Research shows white sage has antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits. It may also help control blood sugar and fight infections. While generally safe, large amounts should be avoided, and children should only use it with a doctor’s advice.
White sage prefers sunny, dry spots and should be planted in late fall. The best harvest time is before it flowers in mid to late summer.
Photo Credit: waterhemp-no-source
Categories: South Dakota, Crops