| Arrow-leaved balsamroot in flower.
Chambers |
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| Investigators |
| Kelly Bannister Ph.D., Department of Botany, University of British Columbia
Professor Nancy Turner, School of Environmental Studies, University of Victoria and Department of Botany, University of British Columbia |
What is the Issue? |
| IDENTIFICATION OF THERAPEUTICALLY BENEFICIAL PLANTS |
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The investigation of plants for medicinal properties is important for medical, ecological and economic reasons. The cultural knowledge of indigenous peoples can greatly assist in this process, since many indigenous societies have maintained direct relationships with plants for nutritional, medicinal, material and spiritual purposes over generations. Working in collaboration with, and with the consent of, indigenous peoples is vital to ensure that the integrity and interests of indigenous cultures are protected in the research process, and that the indigenous originators of the knowledge benefit from research outcomes. This study was a collaborative investigation of how traditional Secwepemc processing methods alter the chemistry and antimicrobial activities of balsamroot when it is prepared as a traditional food and medicine. Results from the study will assist in furthering an understanding and appreciation of the value of indigenous knowledge and in identifying plants that may have widely beneficial medicinal properties. |
What is our goal? |
| EXPLORE BOTANICAL MEDICINE IN OUR FORESTS THROUGH FIRST NATIONS KNOWLEDGE.
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Where we currently stand. |
| Research began in September 1995 and the Ph.D. thesis was defended in the summer of 2000. Ethnobotanical fieldwork was completed and laboratory investigation of plant samples indicated the presence of two previously unreported antibacterial compounds in balsamroot. Results will be of benefit not only to further research in this area, but also to the Secwepemc First Nation and other Aboriginal communities. |
You can help this project - find out how. |
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