Plantes aromatiques dans l’alimentation et la médecine des régions Nord-Ouest de l’Amérique du Nord

Abstract

Humans everywhere have had a special relationship with scented or aromatic plants. In northwestern North America, at least 65 species have been identified as being used for their aromatic qualities by one or more indigenous group. Virtually all the coniferous tree species are utilized for their aromatic qualities. Categories of usage include chewing or food products; aromatic beverage teas; flavourings for cooking; scents for aesthetic, cosmetic purposes, for skin, scalp or hair; aromatic/therapeutic sweat bath or washes, or rubs; ceremonial scrubbing; washes for hunting or fishing gear, to mask human scent and/or bring luck and success; insecticidal, insect repellents with fungicidal and/or preservative properties; Sleep-inducing or dream-inducing; therapy for children and babies; fragrant or protective smudges or incenses; external medicinal applications; and internal medicinal applications. Most species have applications falling into two to several of these categories. Some are used in combination. These plants and the knowledge about them represent an important component of traditional ecological knowledge systems of first nations. They have played a major role in peoples’ survival and well being over thousands of years. This type of knowledge has been seriously eroding over the past decades, as knowledgeable elders pass away. Its recovery and restoration is part of ongoing efforts in culture and language renewal for many communities.