Today fireweed has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory activity, and is being developed into products to treat skin problems such as diaper rash, and as a mouthwash for the treatment of sore gums. The nectar is also important in the honey business. Area of Adaptation Fireweed is most commonly found in dry, open disturbed areas, especially after fires, across Canada as far north as the Arctic Ocean and Baffin Island, most of the USA except the south, Greenland, Iceland and northern Eurasia. Cultivation and Processing Until recently most of the supply has been obtained by harvest of wild fireweed. There is now a very limited amount of cultivation, but details are not available.
Processing involves extraction of the whole plant or above-ground portions.
Marketing Fireweed shows anti-inflammatory activity to reduce the redness associated with skin irritation. There is also a mouthwash product. The young leaves and shoots of fireweed can be used in gourmet salad mixtures. Fireweed honey has been commercially available for many years. Native Plants as Potential Crops for Manitoba For more information, contact your local Manitoba Agriculture Representative .