Medicinal Uses Of Hackberry

Parts of the hackberry trees have been used in the production of drugs so that should lead some credence that the Native Americans were correct in using the Hackberry tree for medical purposes.

The Houma Indians used hackberry bark to make a decoction for sore throats and a decoction mixed with powdered shells to treat venereal disease. I have not been successful in figuring out exactly what shells they are referring to. The Iroquois Indians used Hackberry decoctions to regulate a woman's menstrual cycle and cure venereal diseases. It should be noted that since the bark decoction promotes a woman's menstrual cycle it is should never be used by women that are pregnant because it could lead to an abortion.

Scientists in Egypt found that hackberry leaves contain significant antioxidants. These compounds are touted as a helpful medicine against aging and cancer prevention.

If you need to know how to identify this tree, then look for Hackberry int he edible plants section as it has helpful information on identification.