Materia Médica, Pharmacy and Therapeutics of the Cree Indians of the Hudson Bay Territory

Reports of a smallpox epidemic among the Cree had been received by the author in the summer of 1892. He traveled by steamer up Lake Winnipeg to treat the natives. Consequently, he was directed to continue treatment of ailments experienced by the Cree and spent five years among them. Plant medicines are named, described, and their usages depicted. Physiological actions of each are included. Author concludes that the most common diseases among the Cree in olden days were hereditary, not acquired. Currently (1903), fevers, hemorrhages, scrofula, gun shot wounds, and goitre are common. Gonorrhea treatments consist of fresh buds of the hemlock and birch steeped in cold water, brought to a boil, and given in strong infusion form. For syphilis, blood purifiers and strong purgative mixtures are given. The Cree medicine man must not be confused with the conjurer.