A gift for the taking: the untapped potential of some food plants of North American Native Peoples

Abstract

Of all the plant species originating in North America north of Mexico and formerly used as food by Native Peoples, only one, the common sunflower (Helianthus annuus), has worldwide significance at present. A number of the small fruit species have been utilized by horticulturalists in developing varieties suitable for cultivation, and others (e.g., Helianthus tuberosus, Zizania aquatica, Acer saccharum) are utilized to some extent. For the most part, however, the value and potential of aboriginal food plants is not being realized. Some 100 species of native plants that could be utilized more fully in the diets of modern North Americans are listed, together with information on how and where they were used by Native Peoples. Many species would find wide acceptance in their present form if made available for marketing; others could be significantly improved through selection and hybridization. All could add variety, interest, and nutritional value to the modern diet. Potential problems involved in the adoption of such foods are discussed, and the advantages to be gained are outlined. Reinstatement of these foods among Native Peoples of North America is suggested as a way of restoring pride in native cultures as well as contributing significant nutritional and financial benefits.