Wild Lupine
Parts Usually Used
Leaves
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
, 1-2 foot high. Leaves long-stalked; divided into 7-11 oblong-lance-shaped segments. Flowers more often blue; pea like; in a showy raceme; April to July.
Where Found
Found in dry soils, open woods. New York to Florida; West Virginia; Ohio, Indiana, Illinois.
Legends, Myths and Stories
The name of the Wild Lupine means wild wolf. Origin of the name is unknown. Paiute name: “Kao sigi”; Shoshone name: “Cupi chuk”; Warm Springs Indians name: “Wapeayta”. The tea of the seeds helps failure to urinate.
Uses
Native Americans historically prepared a cold leaf tea for nausea, urinary difficulties, and internal bleeding. It was also utilized as a fodder believed to fatten horses and increase their vigor.
Warning
Seeds are Poisonous. Some lupines are toxic, others are not. Even botanists may have difficulty distinguishing between toxic and nontoxic species. Best to leave alone if inexperienced with this one. Use only when successfully identified and under medical supervision
Bibliography
Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants , by Steven Foster and James A. , 15 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10023