Common Name, from the Cree
pipsisikweu, "it breaks into small pieces", a reference to its use for the
treatment of gall and kidney stones.
Used by Native Americans to
brew a tea.
Roots and leaves were boiled and the infusion ingested as a treatment for
tuberculosis and long-lasting colds. The leaves were also used as an
astringent.
Can be used as an ingredient in root beer.
Sold as a medicinal herb; contains ericolin, arbutin, chimaphilin, urson,
tannin, and gallic acid.
The bruised leaves can sometimes induce redness, vesication, and irritation
of the skin.