Flat Cedar

Flat Cedar
Ȟaŋté

Generally coming from the Rocky Mt. Juniper or Juniperus scopulorum, but inclusive of all Juniperus found on the northern plains, flat cedar is used as a smudge for purification being noted as the preferred smudged for the wakíŋyaŋ (thunder beings). The berries and leaves can also be used to treat head colds, diarrhea, as well as eaten and used to spice other food.

To use: Cedar usually requires a live coal to burn on. It is sprinkled on fires in ceremony to purify the participants and surroundings. The leaves can be steeped for a tea to treat
diarrhea. The twigs are burned and the smoke inhaled to treat head colds.