• Not to be used during pregnancy.
• Not to be used if suffering kidney disorders, irritated digestive system, or acidic urine.
• Not for prolonged used without supervision of a healthcare practitioner.

Spiritual Uses: "Sacred Smoke." Native Americans used this herb alone or mixed with tobacco and other herbs.

When mixed with Tobacco, it was referred to as Kinnikinnick, an Algonquin word for mixture.

It was used as a smudge or smoked in a sacred pipe, carrying the smoker's prayers to the Great Spirit.

Physical Uses: Native Americans used it to treat inflammation of the urinary tract, urethritis, kidney stones, and cystitis.

The Cheyenne used the tea to treat back sprains. Other tribes drank it to treat venereal disease and cervical ulcers.

The tea has also been used to treat bronchitis.

A treatment for diabetes (Diabetes Tea) was made with White Pine (Pinus strobus) Bark, Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), Poplar Bark and Uva Ursi leaves.

Preparation:

TEA:

1. Boil 1 pint of water. Allow to stand 30 seconds.
2. Add 1 heaping teaspoonful of chopped leaves. Stir briefly and cover.
3. Allow to steep for ½ hour.
4. Strain and allow to cool.
5. Dosage: ½ cup 4 times per 24 hours.

DIABETES TEA:

1. Mix equal amounts of
   1. White Pine (Pinus strobus) Bark (or resin),
   2. Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis),
   3. Poplar Bark (Populus tremoloides), and
   4. Uva Ursi. Store in a tightly covered container.
2. Boil 1 pint of water.
3. Add 1 teaspoonful of the mixture. Stir briefly and cover.
4. Allow to steep for ½ hour.
5. Strain out and discard the herbs.
6. Dosage: Administer in small doses throughout the day.