As the holiday season rolled us into a new year, some Oklahomans were left with more than fond memories. Visits from relatives and numerous trips to public places spread joy - and some mighty potent germs. The most important aspect about 'going native,' however, is the important role you play in preserving these plants. Beauty aside, plant conservationists tell us the loss of native plant species is, quite frankly, detrimental to our health.
Many native plants provide derivatives for common pharmaceutical products.
For example, the cardiac drug, digoxin, is derived from the heirloom flower, the foxglove digitalis. Losing native plants means losing the potential healing benefits provided by these plants, possibly forever. Below are common plants and trees found in Oklahoma, plus a brief a history of their healing benefits. You might find a cure growing in your own backyard. Early cultures recognized the ability of white willow bark to relieve headaches.