Rubber Production on the High Plains?

By Cherry Crawford April 3, 2023 20 mins read 57 Views

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By Scott Aker

As I progress in my career as a horticulturist, I find plants that I return to time and again. My recent move to Wyoming has brought me back to many plants I was familiar with from my childhood in western South Dakota. Rubber rabbitbrush, Ericameria. It was Chrysothamnus when I first discovered it. However, taxonomists have given it a different genus. It was first discovered by me during visits to Badlands National Park, where it grew in a low, billowy shrub amid the desolation of Pierre Shale.

Now, fast forward to last autumn when I arrived in Cheyenne for the search for a home. It was a dry year as they are often here. Anything that wasn't watered regularly was dormant, and it was brown. The rubber rabbitbrush had burst into flower with its golden flowers covering every defiantly-green shrub. One home had a large portion of its front yard dedicated to rubber rabbitbrush. I noticed that the stems were a beautiful shade of green when I walked by it. They were grayer than the ones I knew in South Dakota. It turns out there are two subspecies--Ericameria nauseosa ssp. consimilis is greener and more west-oriented, while Ericameria napeosa is ssp. is grayer and more eastern.

The name of the species refers to how the leaves smell when crushed. Some describe it as being pineapple-like, while others call it foul and rubbery. The scent of the plant is subjective and can depend on how the smeller perceives it. However, there is no doubt that it contains high levels of rubber. It was discovered that it could be used as a domestic source of rubber as early as World War II. This was after much of the world's rubber production went to Japan. Today, it is a very small source of industrial rubber. It is not a good source of industrial rubber because it takes six years for it to reach its maximum level. Curiously, rubber rabbitbrush does not contain latex. It is found in the form solids within the bark and the outer ring of the xylem. Ericameria nauseosa ssp. consimilis may contain up to 4% rubber per dry weight, twice the amount for Ericameria nauseasa. Nauseosa. Rubber rabbitbrush rubber is free from allergens.

It was interesting to me to find out why rubber rabbitbrush is so important commercially. It turned out that guayule Partheniumargentatum was officially designated "the official crop to domestically produce rubber" (Bowers 1990), even though it's not as cold-hardy as rubber bunnybrush. Politics can't be ignored by plants. It could be the six years it takes to reach peak production. It could also be the quality and length of the rubber. Longer chains are preferred with a higher molecular mass. Rubber rabbitbrush isn't the most abundantly grown and harvested for rubber.

By dry weight, the resin in leaves and trichomes is also approximately 35 percent. The resin can be used to make plastics by containing aromatic compounds (in the hydrocarbon rings sense, and not in the olfactory). Some terpenoids can be used as insecticides and nematicides (Finley & Neiland, 2013).

Rubber rabbitbrush, like nearly all native plants, is used by many tribes for different purposes. The bright yellow flowers are used by the Navajo to dye leather and clothing. It is also used by the Hopi to dye their wedding belts and make them with the branches. To relieve arthritis pain and swelling, dried flowers and leaves are boiled in warm water. It can be used ceremonially to treat an individual who has been possessed or attacked by an unwelcome spirit. It is used in Shoshone culture to treat nightmares. However, it is not often mentioned as the treatment could backfire (Clifford 2019, 2019). You can make chewing gum from the ground stems (Kershaw 2000). To stop babies drooling, the white cottony insect galls are strung up as beads and hung around their necks (Curtin 1997). Galls can be used to treat stomach and toothache (Dunmire & Tierney 1995). Even though it has no medicinal uses, rubber rabbitbrush can be a beautiful native plant and deserves to be planted in High Plains gardens. If you quickly repeat its name, you will improve your oratory skills.

The median is located just outside the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, in the middle Carey Avenue. When I arrived at my new position as Director, it was explained to me that the City Cheyenne thought this large expanse of turf should be transformed into a water-wise area with native plants. Rubber rabbitbrush is the obvious choice. Because of its deep roots and ability to withstand high levels of pH and salt, it is one of few plants that can thrive in these difficult conditions. Its soft texture and small leaves make it a beautiful plant in all seasons. Because it produces so many flowers, native bee species use it as a source of pollen and nectar.

The rubber rabbitbrush can grow up to six feet tall. Plant Select(r), has chosen a compact cultivar named Baby Blue, which can reach 28 inches if you are not able to grow the species. It can recover quickly from hard pruning, and it will bloom on new growth. You can also cut it down to the ground in late winter/early spring to keep it in check.

Medicinal Disclaimer. The Herb Society of America, Inc. does not recommend or advise herbs for medical or health purposes. This presentation is not intended to be used as a recommendation for or endorsement of any medical or health treatment. Before you try any herbal treatment, please consult your doctor.

Photo Credits: 1) Ericameria nauseosa (Creative Commons, Thayne Tuason); 2) Ericameria nauseosa flowers (Creative Commons, Matt Lavin); 3) Ericameria nauseosa foliage (Creative Commons, Matt Lavin); 4) Ericameria nauseosa (Steve Dewey, Utah State University, bugwood.org); 5) Ericameria nauseosa nicked fuzzy branch (Creative Commons, Matt Lavin); 6) Ericameria nauseosa ssp. E. and graveolens n. ssp. nauseosa at the road edge (Creative Commons, Matt Lavin); Ericameria tonauseosaflowers & honeybee (Creative Commons, Christopher Gezon).

Refers

Bowers, J. E. 1990. The United States has natural rubber-producing plants. Beltsville, MD: USDA. Cooperative State Research Service. National Agricultural Library.

Clifford, A. 2019. Project native memory: Rubber rabbitbrush Accessed February 2, 2023. Available from https://nativememoryproject.org/plant/rubber-rabbitbrush/.

Curtin, L.S.M. (Revised and updated by Michael Moore 1997. Healing Herbs from the Upper Rio Grande – Traditional Medicine of Southwest. Santa Fe, NM, Western Edge Press 1997.

Dunmire, W. & G. Tierney 1995. Wild plants of the Pueblo Province. Santa Fe, NM Museum of New Mexico Press.

Finley, W. F. & L. J. Nieland 2013. Land of Enchantment Wildflowers: Guide to New Mexico's Plants Texas Tech University Press, Lubbock, Texas

Kershaw, Linda. 2000. Edible & Medicinal Plants of the Rockies. Lone Pine Publishing, Edmondton (Canada).

Ma, D. 2019. Natural rubber extraction from Ericameria (rabbitbrush). [Unpublished doctoral dissertation] University of Nevada Reno.

Scott Aker is director of Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, Cheyenne, Wyoming. He was the author of Digging in in The Washington Post, and Garden Solutionsin The American Gardener.

Frequently Asked Questions

What plant helps with infection?

There are plants out there that help fight infections. Some even contain anti-bacterial properties. One of them is mint.

Mint has been used for centuries to treat respiratory infections such as cold symptoms and flu. Mint also supports digestion and relieves gas pains. You may find relief with peppermint tea if you have an upset stomach. Peppermint oil has antibacterial properties, which make it effective against germs.

Peppermint tea contains menthol, beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients support healthy immune systems and provide energy to keep your body strong.

You can make peppermint tea at home by adding one teaspoon of dried mint leaves to boiling water. Let steep for five minutes and drink hot three times per day.

Or you can buy peppermint tea bags at any grocery store. Simply add two teaspoons of dried mint leaves to a cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink hot three times per day for best results.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

Is it safe to eat raw garlic?

Raw garlic contains potent compounds that could cause stomach upset. Garlic should always be cooked before eating.

Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. It has been used since ancient times to treat various ailments.

Today, garlic is still commonly used for treating colds, coughs, and other respiratory infections. In addition, garlic can increase blood circulation, boost immunity, protect against cancer, lower cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease, and reduce stress.

Do not ingest large amounts of raw garlic to avoid possible health problems. It does not harm you if you consume small amounts regularly, however. This is especially true with young children who might accidentally swallow some.

Is eating raw basil good for you?

I'm sure everyone knows that fresh herbs are great for cooking but did you know that you could eat them too? Raw, uncooked herbs are packed full of nutrients and vitamins that we normally have to cook.

They contain more antioxidants than any fruit or vegetable. And they also help our immune systems stay strong and healthy.

The best way to enjoy these delicious little green gems is to eat them raw from the garden. But there's nothing wrong with enjoying them cooked, either. They taste even better when sautéed in olive oil and served alongside pasta or rice.

There are lots of ways to incorporate raw herbs into recipes. Add them to salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, omelets, stir-fries, and pesto.

Just make sure you wash them well first!

What herb heals all wounds?

The answer to this question varies depending on the type and severity of the wound.

The herb comfrey (also known as knitbone) has long been used for its healing properties, particularly for skin injuries such as cuts and bruises.

Studies suggest that comfrey contains allantoin, which helps speed up healing. Other herbs commonly used for healing wounds include calendula, plantain, and yarrow. These herbs help to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding and speed up the skin's healing process.

In addition to herbs, honey has also been found to have powerful antimicrobial properties that can help prevent wound infection.

Herbs for wound care is an age-old practice that continues to be used today. However, herbs should not replace medical treatment, and always consult your doctor before using herbs for healing. With the right herbs, you can give your body the support it needs to heal naturally.

What spices assist in recovery?

The use of spices to aid in healing is an ancient practice dating back centuries. Many spices have been used for their medicinal properties, including ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and garlic. Each of these spices has unique benefits that can help with various health issues.

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used to soothe an upset stomach or relieve nausea.

Cinnamon has been found to have a wide range of medicinal properties, including antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agents. It is even believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial in helping prevent diabetes.

Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also thought to increase circulation and metabolism, which can help the body heal more quickly.

Turmeric is an herb that contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin is beneficial in treating various conditions, from arthritis and neurological disorders to cancer.

Garlic is packed with nutrients and has many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation, act as antibiotic, lower cholesterol levels, and even boost the immune system.

These spices are all-natural ways to help the body heal and improve overall health. They can all be easily incorporated into food or taken in supplement form for convenience. While spices alone won't cure any ailments, they can play an essential role in aiding healing.

In addition to spices, there are also other natural remedies for healing, such as herbs, essential oils, and homeopathy. Research has shown that many of these remedies can be effective in treating a variety of conditions. If you're looking for an alternative to conventional medicine, consider incorporating some of these natural remedies into your health routine.

Statistics

The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.
Studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount (9Trusted Source10Trusted (healthline.com)

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How To

How to use herbs safely?

Many people think that herbs should only be used under medical supervision because they believe that some herbs are poisonous. However, this is not true.

Many herbs have long histories of safe use. For example, garlic has been used for thousands of years to fight infections. It's also been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce high blood pressure.

However, if you're pregnant or nursing, avoid taking certain herbs. You should also avoid them if you suffer from allergies or sensitivities to herbs.

You can do several things to ensure you get the best results from your herbs and supplements. First, always read labels before consuming anything containing herbs or spices. Second, take the lowest dose recommended on the label. Third, don't use more than one supplement at any given time. Fourth, talk to your doctor about how to combine specific herbs and supplements. Finally, keep track of your consumption to know whether you need to adjust your dosage.