YERBA MANSA - Anemopsis californicia - Saururaceae family
Common Names: Lizard Tail, Swamp Root

Yerba mansa or Yerba del Manso (the herb of the tamed Indian - Saunders 1933) is a low growing perennial whose smooth light green leaves with red dish stems grow in marshes. When observed in a mass stand, its large cream white flowers give the appearance of a star-studded blanket on the ground.

Common in wet, alkaline seeps throughout most of the Southwest, it has been called "Nature's Medicine Chest." The root of the plant can be pounded into a powder or poultice and is claimed to relieve symptoms from abrasions to sores to sore throats as well as upset stomachs. For children with stomach upsets and babies who suffer from colic, the roots are boiled until a red liquid appears. A dose of this mixture is taken at intervals until the problem has dissipated. The wilted leaves of Yerba Mansa have been reported to reduce swelling and the entire plant when used in a wash is said to relieve the symptoms of rheumatism.