Western Red Cedar

• Scientific Name: Thuja plicata
• Niimiipuutímt: talátat

Cedar bark was used to construct baskets, sweathouse frames. Smaller baskets for cooking purposes were made of tightly woven cedar roots. They were excellent for waterproof containers. Some say the roots were gathered in spring while another source believes them to be gathered in August or September. Nez Perce Indians made canoes and rafts from cedar. Cradleboards were also made from cedar. They used cedar slivers to stop shrinkage when drying meat. Another use is found with the making of lean-to shelters with cedar bark as covering for the roofs of the earlier semi-subterranean houses. In addition to these many non medicinal uses mentioned: a tea could be brewed from the boughs for colds, coughs, and honey was added to offset the bitter taste. The leaves could be used as a medicine for diarrhea.