OSHA Root: Ancient Native Remedy for Cold, Flu, and Potential COVID-19 Relief

Unlock the story of OSHA root (Ligusticum porteri), a high-elevation plant long treasured in Native American and Hispano herbal traditions of the Southern Rockies and Southwest. Historically, it has been used in seasonal wellness routines, especially for the breath and stamina, and often appears in cultural accounts as a winter ally. Interest in Osha continues today; however, modern evidence varies by preparation and study design, and more well-controlled human trials are needed.

Osha Root (Bear Root)

$5.85

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Historical and Cultural Significance of OSHA Root

Osha’s story is inseparable from place. In many Native American traditions, Osha was prepared as a decoction or chewed in small amounts within seasonal wellness practices and ceremony. In Hispano herbal practice, “bear medicine” is a common folk name, echoing lore of animals seeking roots in early spring. These accounts are part of cultural heritage; they help us understand how communities relate to this plant, but they don’t replace clinical guidance.

Traditional respiratory support

Traditional respiratory support (historical use): In many folk and community settings, especially across the Southern Rockies and high-desert Southwest, people turned to Osha when the seasons shifted and dry air, smoke, dust, or winter chills made breathing feel less comfortable. A common pattern was a simple decoction: thin slices of root simmered gently and sipped warm, sometimes alongside ginger, mullein, or honey. Others chewed a small piece of the root or carried it while traveling in cold weather. These practices were about day-to-day comfort and ritual care for the breath, not quick cures.

Broader folk applications: Beyond seasonally focused use, historical notes and family recipes place Osha in bitters, tonics, and teas made for “settling” after heavy meals or for general fortification in demanding climates. You’ll see it appear in small amounts in multipurpose “camp teas,” in broths, or in travel kits as a valued, resilient mountain ally. As with many herbs, what people prepared, how often they used it, and what they hoped to support varied widely by household and region.

Symbolic & spiritual roles: Osha carries a reputation for protection, stamina, and resilience, reflected in names like “bear root” and in stories of animals seeking roots in early spring. In some traditions it has been kept as a safeguard during travel, included in prayers and ceremony, or respected as a plant teacher for perseverance. If you explore this side of Osha, approach with cultural humility, honor local guidance, and remember that symbolic uses are about meaning and relationship, not medical effects.

Notes on care and context: Modern evidence for specific outcomes is limited and varies by preparation; Osha should be viewed as a gentle traditional option, not a cure-all. It’s also a slow-growing alpine plant, choose ethically sourced products and avoid wild digging. If you’re pregnant, nursing, managing a condition, or taking medications, check with a qualified clinician before using any new herb.

OSHA Root in the Age of COVID-19: While modern research is still exploring the full extent of OSHA root's benefits against COVID-19, its historical use in treating respiratory symptoms makes it a topic of interest. Its potential to alleviate coughs and bolster respiratory health is particularly relevant.

Safety & Sourcing Notes

• Not medical advice: If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or take prescription medicines, speak with a qualified clinician before use.
• Sensitive groups: Osha is not well studied in pregnancy/lactation or for long-term, high-dose use. When in doubt, avoid.
• Interactions: Use extra caution if you take medications that affect blood sugar, blood pressure, or clotting. Always consult your practitioner.
• Conservation: Osha is a slow-growing, high-elevation plant. Choose ethical sources and avoid wild overharvest; prefer transparently sourced products.

Traditional Preparation: Sacred Mountain Brew

Sacred Mountain Brew: Osha Root, Ginger, and Echinacea Tea (Traditional-Style Decoction)

Informational use only. This is a culinary/herbal tradition and not a treatment claim.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon whole Osha Root
• 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger root
• 1/2 teaspoon dried echinacea root
• 2 cups water
• Honey or lemon to taste (optional)

Directions (Decoction Method)

1. Rinse and slice roots if needed. Add to a small pot with 2 cups water.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Strain through a fine mesh; sweeten or add lemon to taste. Sip warm.

Ready to explore Osha? Find Osha Root at Sacred Plant Co.

This article is for educational purposes only. It reflects historical and contemporary practices and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.