Edible Parts: Seed
Edible Uses:

Mountain gromwell is a handsome native perennial with historical importance as a medicinal plant and occasional famine food. Although some Indigenous peoples once consumed its seeds, they appear to have been of only minor importance. Given the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, limited food value, and uncertainty surrounding safe consumption, mountain gromwell is best appreciated as a native wildflower rather than as an edible plant [2-3]. Historical records indicate that the Goshute people of Utah and Nevada occasionally ate the seeds (nutlets). However, all members of the Lithospermum genus should be treated with caution because they contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, compounds that may cause cumulative liver damage with repeated consumption. For this reason, no part of the plant should be regarded as a safe wild food [2-3]. Edibility Rating: 1 out of 5 – Historical use exists, but significant toxicity concerns make this a plant best avoided. Taste and Preparation: The seeds were not available for evaluation during the original fieldwork, as they had already dispersed before the collection site could be revisited. Historical accounts suggest they were eaten occasionally, but apparently never became an important food source. Based on observations of the closely related purple stoneseed (Lithospermum multiflorum), the nutlets are likely to be firm and somewhat nut-like. However, because the genus contains toxic compounds, any potential food value is outweighed by safety concerns [2-3]. Seasonality (Phenology): Mountain gromwell flowers from May through August, with seeds maturing from July through October [2-3]. Traditional Uses: The Goshute people of Utah and Nevada reportedly ate the seeds, although references suggest they were only a minor food resource. Like other members of the genus, mountain gromwell was used more frequently for medicinal purposes than for food. Safety: Do not consume this plant. Species of Lithospermum contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may cause cumulative liver damage. Although historical records document occasional use of the seeds, modern safety guidance favors avoiding the plant altogether. The seeds have been used for food[257].

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
Antirheumatic  Astringent  Contraceptive  Diuretic  Kidney

An infusion or decoction of the root has been used as a diuretic in the treatment of kidney complaints and also to treat internal haemorrhaging, diarrhoea etc[61, 257]. A poultice of the dried powdered leaves and stems has been used to relieve the pain of rheumatic joints[257]. Some N. American Indian women drank a cold water infusion of the roots daily for six months to ensure permanent sterility[213]. Alcoholic extracts of the plant have been shown to eliminate the oestrus cycle and decrease the weight of the thymus and pituitary glands[213].

Beads  Dye

The plant has been used as a dye and body paint[238]. No more details are given in the report, but it is likely that the root is used and the colour is some shade of red[K]. The hard, white, shiny seeds have been used as beads[257].

Special Uses