Osha (Ligusticum Porteri) – Whole Root from Mexico

Many tribes burn Osha for ritual purification to ward off airborne illness in their homes and also subtle negative influences and thoughts. The strength of this herb is immediately apparent by its strong odour. A heavy base note, with a deeply warming, intense and distinctive fragrance.

Related to Lovage (Levisticum officinale) and a member of the Umbelliferae (Carrot family), Osha is a perennial, growing above 7,000 feet throughout the entire Rocky Mountain range from Mexico to Canada.

The plant stands about two or three feet in height and posseses the characteristic umbel (umbrella) flower shape, and leaves that look a little like Parsley (Petroselinum crispum).

It can be stubborn and strong, often growing in aspen groves among their roots, making digging very difficult. Osha is one of the few herbs that can be dried in the sun without harm and will last for years in the dried form. It will not rot because of the potent antibacterial and antiviral substances in the root.