Podcast Summary
Exploring Cultural Relationships with Plants through Ethnobotany: Ethnobotany is the study of people-plant relationships, recognizing colonial origins and the importance of indigenous voices, and goes beyond practical uses to include cultural context and significance in indigenous communities.
Ethnobotany is the study of the cultural relationships between people and plants, and it's important to recognize its colonial origins and the need for more indigenous voices in the field. Ethnobotanist Lee Joseph shares her journey into this field after attending a lecture by Dr. Nancy Turner and being inspired by her storytelling and relationship-based approach to working with elders and their traditional plant knowledge. Ethnobotany goes beyond just identifying and utilizing plants for practical purposes, but also recognizes the importance of cultural context and the significance of plants in indigenous communities. The conversation between the host and Lee Joseph will delve deeper into various aspects of ethnobotany, including traditional plant names, harvesting practices, medicinal uses, and the importance of respecting indigenous perspectives towards plant relations.
Lee's journey to higher education and cultural connection: Through education and honoring her cultural heritage, Lee found personal growth, a sense of belonging, and a path to making a positive impact.
The pursuit of higher education and connecting with one's cultural heritage can lead to profound personal growth and a deeper sense of belonging. Lee's story illustrates this beautifully. Driven by a desire to study with renowned ethnobotanist Nancy Turner, Lee set out to upgrade her science courses and apply for a master's degree. Along the way, she discovered that her love for the natural world and her desire to connect with her indigenous heritage could be combined in her studies. Attending a free lecture was a turning point for Lee, leading her to reconsider her career path and ultimately find a program that resonated with her deeply. As she delved deeper into her studies, she encountered both pleasant and challenging surprises. The good surprises included reconnecting with her community and finding a sense of purpose in her research. The harder surprises came when she encountered her family's historical struggles with language loss due to colonization. Despite these challenges, Lee's journey underscores the transformative power of education and the importance of honoring one's cultural heritage. Furthermore, the story highlights the role of ethnobotany and ethnoecology in indigenous land rights and the preservation of traditional knowledge. Lee's personal journey serves as a reminder that education can be a powerful tool for healing, reconnecting with one's roots, and making a positive impact on the world.
Residential Schools and the Lasting Impact on Indigenous Communities: The residential school system in Canada forcibly removed thousands of Indigenous children, causing emotional and cultural trauma and resulting in a legacy that includes mass graves and ongoing efforts to heal and reconcile. Indigenous perspectives on botany can offer unique insights and challenge Western approaches.
The residential school system in Canada, which operated from the late 1800s until 1997, forcibly removed an estimated 150,000 Indigenous children from their families and homes to attend Christian-run schools. Many children died, and mass graves are still being discovered. The legacy of this system is recognized every September 30th as Orange Shirt Day. Survivors and their descendants have testified to the emotional and cultural trauma caused by the loss of their language, traditions, and connections to their communities. For the speaker, whose family was also affected by the residential school system, the study of botany became a deeply personal and culturally significant path of learning. She felt a connection to plants as relatives and was struck by the different ways Indigenous and Western perspectives approached the same plants and their names. In her academic work, she felt a responsibility to contribute to the literature in a way that reflected Indigenous voices and experiences, acknowledging the history of racist and stereotypical language used in older ethnographies. She also grappled with defining the scope of her research, recognizing that the distinction between native, indigenous, and introduced plants can depend on the specific approach.
Exploring the World of Plants: From Identification to Cultural Significance: Ethnobotany bridges science and culture, focusing on plant identification, sustainable practices, and respecting cultural significance. Engage with native and culturally important plants, using resources like Seek app or 'Held by the Land' guide, and collaborate with local communities.
Ethnobotany, the study of the relationship between people and plants, requires a foundational understanding of plant identification and sustainable practices, as well as respect for the cultural significance of plants. This interdisciplinary field invites individuals from various backgrounds to explore the world of plants, starting with the basics such as plant identification and sustainable harvesting or cultivation. Tools like the Seek app or "Held by the Land" guide can help in this journey. Native plants, which have co-evolved with people, hold deep management and cultivation knowledge, and engaging with local communities is essential for researchers to support existing work with culturally important plants. Not all plants are considered culturally important, but even non-native plants can carry valuable gifts and be welcomed with respect. In my personal experience, focusing on native and culturally important plants within a specific region, such as the Squamish territory, has been a starting point for research. Ultimately, ethnobotany is about recognizing the interconnectedness of all plants and our role in preserving and valuing their gifts.
Engaging Indigenous Communities in Research: A Case Study on the Northern Rice Root: Respecting indigenous knowledge and collaboration leads to sustainable plant conservation and cultural preservation. Northern rice root, a significant food source in Squamish community, was studied through community engagement, blurring lines between research and family outings.
The importance of indigenous plant knowledge and community collaboration was highlighted in a research project focused on the northern rice root (Fritillaria capsicensis), also known as Hwasem in the Squamish language. This plant, though rarely seen due to historical impacts, holds significant cultural value and historical significance in the Squamish community due to its role as a traditional food source. The researcher, Lee, emphasized the importance of engaging with community members and respecting their knowledge and priorities. This approach contrasts with colonial era practices that destroyed indigenous root gardens and denied their farming capabilities. The northern rice root takes years to germinate, making conservation crucial. Lee's work involved community engagement and sharing history and current context, blurring the lines between fieldwork and family outings. The research also focused on understanding the ideal habitat for planting and harvesting the northern rice root sustainably from a Squamish perspective. The project underscores the importance of reciprocity, responsibility, and respect in indigenous plant harvesting practices.
Respecting the Land and Its Inhabitants When Foraging: Thoroughly research local native plants, engage with local communities, leave some for nonhuman life, and consider the plant's ecological role to ensure sustainable and respectful foraging.
When engaging in harvesting or foraging, it's crucial to consider the importance of reciprocity and respect for the land and its inhabitants. Foraging can have negative connotations due to potential issues with cultural appropriation and overharvesting. To avoid these issues, do thorough research on local native plants and their appropriate harvesting times, and engage with local native plant nurseries and indigenous communities. Always remember to leave some of the plant for nonhuman life and consider the impact on the ecosystem. Additionally, be aware of the specific uses and ecological roles of each plant in its local environment. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a sustainable and respectful relationship with the natural world.
Respecting culturally significant plants: When interacting with culturally significant plants, prioritize education, respect, and reciprocity. Seek guidance from local communities and recognize historical and cultural significance.
When considering harvesting or interacting with culturally significant plants, particularly in areas with indigenous communities, it's crucial to prioritize education, respect, and reciprocity. Uncertainty about permission or cultural importance may indicate a need for further self-reflection and learning. White sage, a culturally significant plant native to Southern California and Baja, Mexico, serves as a cautionary example of the consequences of overharvesting, commercialization, and cultural appropriation without proper understanding or context. It's essential to recognize the deep historical and cultural significance of such plants and engage with local communities for guidance and permission when possible.
Appreciation for plants disrupted by commercialization: Consider the impact on communities with cultural connections to plants and the potential loss of native species. Decolonize the landscape by creating space for native plants to thrive, build relationships with them, and ask for permission instead of labeling invasive species as enemies.
The appreciation and connection to plants, especially those with cultural significance, can be disrupted when they become commercialized and disconnected from their origins. It's essential to consider the impact on communities with cultural connections to these plants and the potential loss of native species. Instead of viewing invasive species as the enemy, decolonizing the landscape by creating space for native plants to thrive can be a more thoughtful approach. Building relationships with plants through gardening and learning about their uses can help foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for them. Jessica Hernandez, an indigenous scientist, encourages us to ask for permission from these displaced relatives rather than labeling them as invasive species. Ethnobotany goes beyond just plants, it's about understanding the relationships between people, places, and plants, which vary greatly.
Protecting People and Preserving the Planet through Sovereignty: The Seeding Sovereignty project supports gender expansive people and women-led organizations, Indigenous Climate Action, and promotes native plant cultivation with respect to their essential qualities.
The Seeding Sovereignty project focuses on protecting people and preserving the planet by promoting land, body, community, cultural, and political sovereignty for gender expansive people and women-led organizations. The project also supports the Indigenous Climate Action (ICA), an indigenous-led organization dedicated to climate action and preserving indigenous knowledge. Regarding the use of nativars and cultivars in native plant cultivation, it's essential to consider the origins of the seeds or plants, as their characteristics can differ from native plants. Indigenous management practices prioritize enhancing the growth and productivity of native plants without altering their essential qualities. Unexpected native plant volunteers can also appear when given the right conditions, and collaborating with native nurseries can help propagate these volunteers. Many listeners asked about the medicinal uses of native plants, and the knowledge of their healing properties has been passed down through generations. Native peoples have identified these plants for centuries, and modern science is now recognizing their medicinal values.
Indigenous plant medicine knowledge: Indigenous communities possess a wealth of knowledge about plant medicine, often passed down through families or medicine people, and can provide valuable insights for modern medicine.
Indigenous communities around the world have a rich and diverse knowledge system when it comes to plant medicine. This knowledge is often passed down through families or medicine people, and it can be gained through experiential learning, elder guidance, and even spiritual connections with the plants themselves. For instance, in Squamish, certain families were known for their expertise in plant medicine, and people would go to them for help. The timing of harvesting the bark is crucial, as it contains the most nutrients and energy during the springtime. Bark medicines have been used for various purposes, such as pain relief and anti-inflammation, and some, like willow bark, have led to the development of modern medicines like aspirin. However, the origins of these discoveries are a subject of debate. The language connected to local ethnobotany is also essential, as it includes practical place names and plant names. Sharing this knowledge broadly is crucial, as it empowers people to nourish themselves from their traditional landscapes and take a preventative approach to their health. This cultural view of health and wellness can complement, rather than replace, the Western healthcare system.
Blueberry leaf extract's anti-glycation activity and community responsibility: Blueberry leaf extract prevents tissue damage with anti-glycation properties. Researchers must respect indigenous communities' plant knowledge while exploring potential pharmaceutical uses.
Blueberry leaf extract, specifically from blueberry species, has been found to possess potent anti-glycation activity, which can prevent excess blood glucose from damaging tissues and nerves. This activity is linked to the phenolic content of the extract. Phenols are a type of chemical compound used in various life-saving drugs. However, there are concerns about how indigenous communities are treated when it comes to big pharma exploration and exploitation of their plant knowledge. It's crucial for researchers in ethnobotany and related fields to consider their responsibilities and take steps to protect this knowledge at a community level. Regarding skincare, many people asked about plants good for acne or swelling, and the debate over clean and natural ingredients. My brand, Squalow and Botanicals, came from a desire to interact with plant knowledge creatively and developed into creating formulations using botanical hero ingredients like rose, which has calming benefits for the skin, both internally and topically. It's essential to consider the cultural significance of these plants and the importance of protecting their knowledge and use.
Plants for Health: Inside and Out: Rose hips provide antioxidants and vitamin C for internal and external health benefits. Plantain aids in wound healing, anti-inflammation, and itch relief, but its uses may not be fully proven through scientific research.
Certain plants, like rose hips, offer both internal and external health benefits. Rose hips are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a valuable addition to an "inside out" approach to beauty and health. They also help address inflammation and calm breakouts. When it comes to dealing with itchy rashes, such as those caused by poison ivy, plantain is a suggested remedy. A quick poultice made from the plant can provide relief. Plantain, a common and helpful weed, contains various biologically active compounds that aid in wound healing, anti-inflammation, pain relief, antioxidants, and even weak antibiotics. However, it's important to remember that not all plants and their uses are extensively studied in science. Some plants, like plantain, have long been used traditionally for their healing properties, and their benefits may not always be fully understood or proven through scientific research.
Incorporating Native Plant Medicines into Modern Healthcare: Use traditional medicines carefully with prescription medicines, follow a 'go low and slow' approach, and consult resources like 'Plants of the Pacific Northwest' and 'The Boreal Herbal' to learn more about native plants for managing conditions like type 2 diabetes.
Incorporating native plant medicines into modern healthcare, particularly for those on prescription medicines, requires careful consideration and collaboration between traditional knowledge holders and Western healthcare professionals. This approach, known as "going low and slow," involves using traditional medicines in small doses and gradually, while ensuring they don't interact negatively with prescription medicines. A good example of this is the use of native plants like blueberry leaf extracts, bitter gourd tea, American larch, Labrador tea, balsam fir extracts, and purple pitcher plant to manage type 2 diabetes, as mentioned in a 2019 Bioscience Journal article. However, it's important to note that this knowledge is specialized and requires balance – while we shouldn't wait for scientific studies to validate traditional knowledge, we also need to be cautious when reintroducing traditional remedies in modern times. As for resources to learn more about identifying native plants, Sarah Carter recommends "Plants of the Pacific Northwest" by Andy McKinnon and Jim Poacher, with an updated ethnobotanical component coming soon. Another great resource is "The Boreal Herbal" by Beverly Gray, a non-indigenous female herbalist from the Yukon. Remember, your local librarian is also a valuable resource for plant guide recommendations.
Respecting the natural world and seeking permission: Respecting the natural world and understanding the impact of actions is crucial. Invasive species and overharvesting can harm culturally significant plants, and traditional knowledge and sustainable practices are essential for their preservation.
Respecting the natural world and seeking permission before taking from it is crucial. This was exemplified in the speaker's experience while teaching an ethnobotany course in Haida Gwaii. They had planned to harvest Devil's Club, a culturally significant plant, but felt a strong sense of not being invited to do so. Upon reflection, they realized that the plant was being heavily browsed by invasive deer, and harvesting could have further endangered it. This experience served as a reminder of the importance of respecting the natural world and understanding the impact of one's actions. Additionally, the speaker shared a moment from volunteering in a root garden in Muskemazawa Dana territory, where they gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of traditional knowledge and sustainable practices. Overall, these experiences highlight the significance of respect, understanding, and connection to the natural world.
Connecting with community and land through ethnobotany: Learning from elders and community members about unique plant flavors and uses leads to shared stories and appreciation. Contribute and give back to the community as an aspiring indigenous ethnobotanist.
Connecting with community and the land through traditional practices like ethnobotany can lead to a deeper sense of joy, strength, and identity. This was exemplified in a fieldwork experience where the speaker brought community members to harvest and cook roots, leading to shared stories and appreciation for the unique flavors and uses of different plants. The speaker emphasizes the importance of learning from elders and community members, and continuing to contribute and give back to the community. For aspiring indigenous ethnobotanists, she advises sitting with community members, asking brilliant botanical questions, and leaning on community teachings and guidance.
Understanding the importance of responsible health practices and interdisciplinary studies: Aspirin is a medication, not candy. Thinning your blood with excessive consumption can lead to health complications. Ethnoecology is an interdisciplinary field that explores cultures and ecology. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your health regimen. Stay curious about the world through ethnoecology.
Aspirin, while it may bring back nostalgic memories or be impulsively enjoyable, is a medication and should be treated as such. Consuming too much, even if it's in the form of children's aspirin, can thin your blood and potentially lead to health complications. It's important to remember that medicine is not candy and to always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen. Moving on to a new topic, ethnoecology is a fascinating field that combines the study of cultures and ecology. The term comes from the Greek words "ethnos," meaning nation, and "ecology," the study of interactions between organisms and their environment. It's an interdisciplinary approach that explores how different cultures understand and interact with their natural world. While the conversation may have started in a less-than-professional manner, the importance of responsible health practices and the value of interdisciplinary studies shines through. Remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen, and stay curious about the world around you through the lens of ethnoecology.
