Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute

Medicinal Plants

English Lavender: Discovering Wild Lavender in Michigan’s Outdoors

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My middle daughter recently got me into playing Pickleball, and I have yet to beat her at it. I live in Whitehall, Michigan, and we found that there are some nice Pickleball courts at the Township Hall. After playing a few rounds, I checked on my youngest daughter who was playing next to us at the playground. While checking on her, I noticed several interesting plants nearby; some were planted while others were growing wild. I saw: Yellow Yarrow, Mullein, Rose Campion and English Lavendar. Not being as familiar with English Lavendar, I did a deep dive into this plant.
 
In the bright, open sun of a Michigan summer, English Lavender signals that the season of warmth and pollinator activity has fully arrived. While it lacks the fleeting nature of true spring ephemerals, its resilience, aromatic oils, and centuries of human use make it a cornerstone of both horticulture and traditional herbalism.
 
Plant Profile: English Lavender
Scientific Name: Lavandula angustifolia
Identification
• Key Features: English Lavender is recognized by its slender, gray-green foliage and tall, wiry stems topped with compact spikes of violet-blue flowers. Its leaves are narrow, aromatic, and evergreen in mild climates. When brushed, the plant releases essential oils that define its unmistakable scent.
• Seasonal Appearance: Blooming from late June through August, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its flower spikes emerge steadily, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the summer.
• Look-alikes: Often confused with hybrid lavenders such as Lavandin (Lavandula × intermedia), which have longer stems and a sharper camphor aroma. English Lavender is shorter, denser, and sweeter-scented, with a more delicate flower structure.
 
Habitat and Ecology
• Where it Grows: Native to the Mediterranean basin, English Lavender prefers dry, rocky soils and full sunlight. In Michigan, it flourishes when planted in raised beds or sandy loam that mimics its native terrain.
• Ecological Role: A magnet for bees, especially honeybees and small solitary species. Its extended bloom period provides nectar well into summer. Lavender’s woody stems also serve as overwintering habitat for beneficial insects.
 
Usage and Preparation
Edible Uses
• Edible Parts: Flowers and leaves, used sparingly.
• Culinary Profile: Lightly sweet with floral, herbal notes. Popular in teas, honey infusions, baked goods, and seasoning blends such as Herbs de Provence.
• Flavor Warning: Overuse leads to a soapy or perfumed taste. Moderation is key.
Medicinal Uses
• Historical Traditions: Ancient Greeks and Romans used lavender for bathing, perfuming, and healing salves. Medieval herbalists prized it for “calming the spirit” and cleansing homes.
• Herbal Applications: Traditionally used for tension relief, mild insomnia, and headaches. Lavender oil has been applied to soothe minor burns, insect bites, and skin irritations.
• Modern Context: English Lavender remains one of the most studied aromatic plants. Its essential oil is associated with relaxation effects, though results vary by individual.
 
Doctrine of Signatures
Early herbalists believed a plant’s appearance revealed its purpose. Lavender’s soft purple hue and delicate, upright form were thought to signify tranquility, spiritual clarity, and purification. Its fragrance played a symbolic role in maintaining calmness and emotional balance.
 
Safety and Sustainability
• Toxic Look-alikes: Lavender is generally safe, but ensure you are not confusing it with ornamental species that may contain irritating compounds.
• Safety Warning: Essential oil can cause skin irritation in some individuals; dilute before topical use. Pregnant or nursing individuals should consult a clinical herbal professional before using essential oils.
• Sustainability: Lavender is hardy, drought-resistant, and requires minimal water once established. Pruning after bloom helps maintain vigor and reduces woody dieback.
• Ethical Harvesting: Cut only the top flowering portions and leave enough foliage for the plant to regenerate.
 
Seasonal Calendar
• June–August: Peak bloom, heavy pollinator activity.
• September: Flowers fade; stems can be harvested and dried.
• October–March: Woody framework persists; the plant rests while retaining evergreen foliage in mild conditions.
• April–May: Fresh growth and new flower buds emerge.
 
Preparation Methods
• Infusion: Flowers steeped in hot water create a calming tea.
• Tincture: Used sparingly for digestive or tension relief.
• Essential Oil: Distilled from flowers; used for aromatherapy.
• Drying: Bundles hung upside down in a dark, dry space preserve fragrance for months.
 
Modern Scientific Context
The essential oils of English Lavender contain linalool and linalyl acetate—compounds associated with calming sensory pathways. Current research explores its roles in sleep quality, mild anxiety reduction, antimicrobial activity, and household pest deterrence. While promising, most studies recommend moderate use and avoid overreliance on concentrated oils.
 
Conclusion
English Lavender is both beautiful and resilient—a botanical bridge between ancient tradition and modern horticulture. Its fragrance, ecological value, and versatility make it a plant worth cultivating, respecting, and understanding deeply.
 
Master the Wild in Michigan
Want to learn how to identify useful plants in the field?
Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute offers immersive hands-on training in Michigan’s forests, fields, and meadows. Come on out and do a weekend, or participate in one of our workshops.
Visit: survivalschoolmichigan.com for our upcoming schedule.
Published on: July 15, 2026
Location: Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute
 
Important Safety & Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only.
• Consult a professional herbalist before using essential oils.
• Always verify plant identification.
• Use responsibly; reactions vary among individuals.
 
References
• U.S. Dispensatory (Historic Editions)
• Moerman, D. E. (1998). Native American Ethnobotany
• USDA Plant Database
• Modern Aromatherapy Research (Peer-Reviewed Studies)

The Triangle Code: Wilderness Medicinal Tea Formulas For The Eastern Woodsman

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1. The Woodsman’s Triangle
Purpose: Energy, endurance, and recovery for rugged conditions.
Formula:
• Base (Strength): Black Birch (Betula lenta) – bark tea for anti-inflammatory strength and subtle wintergreen flavor.
• Second Side (Stamina): Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) – twigs and berries for warming energy, digestive support, and resilience.
• Third Side (Recovery): Nettle (Urtica dioica) – mineral-rich leaves for replenishment and muscle recovery.
Ratio:
• Black Birch: 2 parts
• Spicebush: 1 part
• Nettle: 2 parts
Flavor Profile:
• Birch brings a crisp, wintergreen edge.
• Spicebush adds a warm, peppery undertone.
• Nettle rounds it out with earthy depth.
 
2. The Hunter’s Triangle
Purpose: Focus, calm nerves, and sharp senses.
Formula:
• Base (Clarity): Sweet Fern (Comptonia peregrina) – aromatic leaves for digestive calm and mental clarity.
• Second Side (Stealth): Wild Mint (Mentha canadensis) – cooling, alertness, and breath control.
• Third Side (Balance): Blueberry Leaf (Vaccinium spp.) – tannins for blood sugar stability and subtle grounding.
Ratio:
• Sweet Fern: 2 parts
• Wild Mint: 1 part
• Blueberry Leaf: 1 part
Flavor Profile:
• Sweet Fern delivers a resinous, earthy aroma with a slightly sweet undertone.
• Wild Mint adds a crisp, refreshing coolness that sharpens the senses.
• Blueberry Leaf contributes a mild, tannic finish for grounding and balance.
 
3. The Iron Triangle
Purpose: Immune defense and raw vitality.
Formula:
• Base (Shield): Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) – root or flower for immune boost.
• Second Side (Armor): Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – leaves for antimicrobial and wound-healing properties.
• Third Side (Forge): Pine Needles (Pinus strobus) – vitamin C powerhouse for resilience.
Ratio:
• Echinacea: 1 part
• Yarrow: 1 part
• Pine Needles: 2 parts
Flavor Profile:
• Echinacea brings a bold, earthy bitterness with a slightly tingling sensation.
• Yarrow adds a dry, herbal sharpness reminiscent of wild meadow greens.
• Pine Needles deliver a bright, resinous citrus note that lifts the blend and energizes the palate.
 
4. The Pioneer’s Triangle
Purpose: Hydration, electrolyte balance, and cooling under heat stress.
Formula:
• Base (Hydration): Basswood Flowers (Tilia americana) – soothing, mild diuretic, replenishes fluids.
• Second Side (Electrolytes): Sumac Berries (Rhus typhina) – tart infusion for vitamin C and minerals.
• Third Side (Cooling): Wild Strawberry Leaf (Fragaria virginiana) – gentle tonic for heat fatigue.
Ratio:
• Basswood: 2 parts
• Sumac: 1 part
• Strawberry Leaf: 1 part
Flavor Profile:
• Basswood offers a smooth, honey-like sweetness with a delicate floral aroma.
• Sumac brings a sharp, citrusy tang that refreshes and replenishes.
• Wild Strawberry leaf adds a subtle, green earthiness with a faint fruity undertone.
Field Notes for the Eastern Woodlands
• All these plants are native or naturalized in Michigan and surrounding regions.
• Harvest responsibly: avoid over-stripping bark and never take more than 10% from a stand.
• Drying leaves and roots extends shelf life; teas can be brewed fresh or dried.
 
For more content visit: survivalschoolmichigan.com

Wintergreen: A Survivalist’s Ally

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Wintergreen is an evergreen plant native to North America and the Eastern Woodlands. Renowned for its potent medicinal properties, this plant’s leaves and oil contain methyl salicylate—a compound with remarkable pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. Historically, Wintergreen has been used to address a wide array of ailments, including muscle pain, headaches, nerve pain, sciatica, arthritis, joint pain, menstrual cramps, colds, and flus. Beyond its pain-relieving abilities, Wintergreen boasts antioxidant, antimicrobial, and insecticidal properties, making it an invaluable resource in the wild.
At Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute, I’ve introduced many students to the delights of Wintergreen tea—a soothing, minty infusion that offers both flavor and medicinal benefits. Typically, students enjoy two or three cups, and I often brew this tea when dealing with headaches during camp. The plant’s dark green, waxy leaves and vibrant red berries make it easy to identify. While the berries are minty and edible, it’s said that consuming just one is equivalent to taking a single aspirin. Interestingly, the strongest medicinal properties are derived from Wintergreen leaves harvested between late winter and early fall, when they take on a purplish hue.
In one experiment, I combined an infusion of Wintergreen tea with a poultice of the same plant to treat my aching knee. Used in tandem, the tea and poultice proved highly effective at alleviating my pain—a testament to the plant’s dual functionality.
Preparing Wintergreen Tea:
  1. Gather a small handful of Wintergreen leaves (5–10 should suffice).
  2. Place the leaves on a hard surface, such as a skillet, clean log, or flat rock, and gently crush them using the back of your hatchet or knife. Alternatively, chop the leaves finely.
  3. Simmer the leaves in a cup of water to create the tea.
For brewing in the wild, I often use an improvised setup, such as an empty energy drink can suspended over a fire on a tripod stand. For an enhanced infusion, try adding White Pine needles and honey to your Wintergreen tea. This combination offers a powerful winter medicine, blending the vitamin C from pine needles (an immune booster) with antimicrobial, expectorant, and pain-relieving properties. The honey adds its soothing touch to the throat—perfect for colds and sore throats.
 

Wheeping Forsythia: Medicine of the Yellow Flower

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Wheeping Forsythia

Weeping Forsythia (Forsythia suspensa) is a hallmark of spring, and one of the first bloomers to catch my eye each season. I typically spot this plant alongside Snowdrops early in the year. It has been valued in traditional medicine since ancient times for its numerous health benefits. The yellow blossoms can be eaten raw, though they are bitter. However, the flowers make a pleasantly flavored tea. Below are some of the plant’s medicinal uses:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Weeping Forsythia contains compounds such as phillyrin and forsythoside, which help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

• Respiratory health: It can reduce inflammation in the air passages of the lungs (bronchiolitis).

• Antibacterial properties: The plant inhibits the growth of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus.

• Antiviral benefits: Prepare a tea using the flowers and consume it when dealing with colds, the flu, or other viral infections. Gargling the warm tea can also soothe a sore throat. Additionally, it boosts the immune system, aids in tonsillitis relief, and reduces fever.

• Allergy relief: In spring, I use this plant along with Purple Dead Nettle to alleviate allergies.

• Heart health: The plant contains oleanolic acid, which supports heart muscle function and helps regulate blood pressure.

• Pain relief: Weeping Forsythia’s analgesic properties are effective for relieving pain and headaches.

• Topical applications: Prepare a fomentation or wash with the plant for antiseptic use. The tea can be used to clean wounds, cuts, burns, rashes, and other skin problems.

• Support for internal organs: The plant is beneficial for liver health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Methods to Prepare Weeping Forsythia for Medicinal Uses:

  1. Tea: Use a tablespoon of fresh or dried yellow flowers and steep them in hot water for 10–15 minutes. This tea helps with fever, sore throat, and inflammation.
  2. Tincture: Fill a mason jar with dried fruits and leaves, then cover them with vodka or brandy. Seal the jar and let it sit for 4–6 weeks, flipping it upside down once a week. Afterward, strain and store the liquid. This tincture offers potent medicinal benefits, boosting your immune system and aiding in fighting infections.
  3. Infused oil: Place dried flowers in a jar and cover them with almond, olive, or coconut oil. Let the jar sit for 4–6 weeks, then strain and store the oil. This infused oil can be used for topical applications, including burns, wounds, and sunburns.
  4. Syrup: First, prepare a tea using the flowers as described above. Strain out the flowers and mix the tea with honey. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to one month. This syrup is effective for treating coughs, colds, the flu, other viruses and lung ailments.

The Healing Walk of the Forest: Discover the Power of Phytoncides and Forest Bathing

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Have you ever spent time in a forest and later noticed how at peace you felt? Did you notice how well you slept that night? Did you feel better physically? The trees and green plants of the forest emit invisible biochemicals called phytoncides that create a shield of protection around them to ward off harmful microbes, insects, bacteria, and fungal infections. When you are in a forest, you inhale these phytoncides and benefit from their medicinal qualities, such as a reduction in stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and a boost to your immune system. These phytoncides cause your body to increase white blood cells which fight off viruses and other microbes. The phytoncides are also beneficial in that they have anticancer properties, improve your respiratory and cardiovascular health, and even elevate your mood. The air of the forest can relax you and helps to calm nervous energy. It helps with insomnia. A two hour walk in the forest can produce enough white blood cell activity and a health boost that can last for days. In Japan they practice Shinrin-yoku, which according to my research translates as “forest bathing.” Could the Japanese, who have the highest life expectancy globally, be on to something? These phytoncides are part of what gives essential oils there powerful medicinal properties. There are thousands of phytoncides, but the most common forest-related compounds are listed as follows: camphene, pinene, limonene, myrcene, and sabinene. Forest bathing, hiking and camping are great ways to get a dose of these healing phytoncides, which aid in our physical and mental well-being. Depressed? Stressed? Feeling tired or worn out? Time to get out into the wild for a recharge! Getting outside, getting sunlight and breathing in that fresh medicinal air is an exceptional way to promote your health.

 

Unleashing the Power of Yucca: Nature’s Secret Weapon for Survival and Sustainability

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Yucca (Adam’s Needle, Yucca filamentosa) is a plant that can be found from the South up to the eastern United States, as well as in northern regions like Michigan and Canada. The root contains saponin, which can be used to make soap for washing the body, hair, and clothing. The stalk produces edible white flowers that can be eaten raw or cooked and are said to taste like a bitter artichoke. The flowering stem can be cooked and eaten much like asparagus, but it should be harvested before it grows taller than asparagus. The leaves can serve as paintbrushes. When processed, they yield inner fibers that can be turned into cordage for binding, ropemaking, basket weaving, and even clothing. The dried stalk can be used for a hand drill or as a spindle for a bow drill. To make friction fires, cut the stalk near the base and hang it to dry.

Yucca is known for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat conditions such as arthritis and joint pain. The root can be beaten into a salve or poultice and applied to sores, skin diseases, and sprains. It also has sedative effects that can aid sleep and antiviral qualities. The root has been used to treat gonorrhea and rheumatism. The saponins in the plant are toxic to fish; Native Americans once used large quantities of them in bodies of water to stupefy and kill fish, causing them to float to the surface. Adam’s Needle is a bushcrafter’s best friend in the wild!

 

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