Family: Asteraceae/ Aster/ Daisy/ Sunflower
Ecology/ Botany:
This luminous, widespread perennial grows from low to subalpine elevations in rocky forest openings and meadows. It prefers Engelmann Spruce- Subalpine Fir, Coastal Western Hemlock, or Interior Cedar Hemlock forest zones. It blooms midsummer and can last until snowfall, hence the name everlasting.
Medicinal/ Traditional/ Other Uses:
Nlaka’pamux (Thompson) people have used this plant as medicine for Rheumatic Fever and coughs, and Syilx (Okanagan) people for an upset stomach, with an infusion of the shoots and roots. Them, and other Indigenous North Americans also have used it for relief from respiratory conditions with inhaled smoke from the flowers, and to treat paralysis with smoke- cleanses. Also, for coughs, colds, and fevers with an infusion of the seed heads. It is cooling, drying, and a mild sedative. The flower essence is said to help remove any blocks from connection to the spiritual realm and higher consciousness.
References/ Other useful Links:
E-FLORA BC: ELECTRONIC ATLAS OF THE FLORA OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
https://www.treefrogfarm.com/store/flower-essences-tree-essences/pearly-everlasting-flower-essence
Parish, Coupe, Lloyd. 1996. Plants of Southern Interior British Columbia. B. C. Ministry of Forests and Lone Pine Publishing.