1. Medicinal Plants of the Sonoran Desert Arlo Ogden naturalist, historian, park ranger, educator and veteran Educational Series

3. Learning Objectives Following this presentation, participants will: -Learn which desert plants maybe beneficial -Learn on collection and use techniques -Learn how to do a safety test

4. Collection Common sense in use Preparation Environment Tools: gloves, tongs, sharp knife, sunscreen, water Wildlife: snakes, scorpions, bees, javelinas Land issues (Homestead Act) Quantity: we are not the only ones using these plants

5. "If a little is good a lot has got to be great "Somebody told me" Use

6. References Medicinal Plants of the Desert and Canyon West Michael Moore Medicinal Plants of the American Southwest Charles W. Kane Indian Uses of Desert Plants James W. Cornett Google really doesn't know everything

7. Everyone is different and so is the reaction to plants. When in doubt TEST I personally do not use tincturing techniques other than water Know your plants Always consult a physician Pre-cautions

9. One of the most popular desert plants Originally from Africa (aloe 6K years) Where you find agave, you are likely to find aloe vera plants Aloe and burns, cuts, etc. Agave vs. Aloe

13. Cut leaf from the main plant Expose fleshy inner portionUse Rub on cuts, burns, and bites Preparation

15. Commercial varieties available Brittlebush in Pic ArthritisCollection Tools:Tools: Gloves Fruit (August & September) Remember the critters (desert tortoise) Fruit reminds me of watermelon Prickly Pear (nopales)

17. Reduces cholesterol Constipation (Fiber) As tea is good for urinary tract issues Raw pulp helps diabetics Use

18. Remove all spines and glochids Fire, cutting, scraping, freezing Cooked or raw Preparation

19. Mesquite

22. Always consult a physician Questions?