Porophyllum gracile – “Slender Poreleaf”

Also Known As: Odora, Xtisil, Hierba del Venado
Family: Sunflower (Asteraceae)
Bloom Period: Sep-Jun
Form: Perennial subshrub
Habitat: Sandy and gravelly soils
Leaves: Linear, almost thread-like; opposite
Translation: “Porophyllum” is Greek for “pore-leaf,” which describes the glands dotting this leaves; “gracile” is Latin for “slender” or “graceful.”
Notes: Sold fresh and dried in some Mexican markets as a medicinal herb where it is called, Hierba del Venado (Deer Herb). Related species contain thiophenes with proven anti-bacterial properties. Classified in the Tageteae, that is “Marigold,” tribe
Native American Uses: The Seri, who called this plant Xtisil, made a tea from the stems to treat colds and ease childbirth difficulties and chewed on the roots to help toothaches. The Havasupai made a decoction and used it topically and internally for aches and pains and to wash sores. Paiute and Shoshone women used it to bring on late menstruation.