CHAPARRAL
(Larrea divaricata)
creosote bush, greasewood, chaparro, dwarf evergreen oak.

Description: Perennial bush, 4-8 ft. Dark green stems, leaves can be yellowish-green in dry seasons. Strong scented leaves are opposite, divided into 2 leaflets. Flowers, yellow with 5 petals, only 1/2 inch across appearing in spring and winter. Fruit, rounded, up to 1/4 inch long, covered with white hairs. Found in desert areas, alkali soil in south western part of U.S. Leaves and stems contain gums, resins, protein, esters, acids, alcohol, small amounts of sterols, sucrose and volatile oils. No alkaloids are detected and is non-toxic.

Medicinal: Antiseptic, blood purifier, diuretic, expectorant, tonic. Leaves, stems used to help in acne, styes, skin conditions of warts and blotches, arthritis, cancer, chronic backache, hair growth, better eyesight, increases bowel elimination (not laxative), kidney infection, prostate gland trouble, throat, bronchial, pulmonary conditions and weight reducing. Taken in capsules according to directions. American Indians sharpened the young branches, placed in fire till hot and inserted into tooth cavities to relieve pain.

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