MEDICINAL USES:
Bunchberry contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help to relieve pain and reduce fever and inflammation. Although not as strong as medicines containing salicylates, Bunchberry retains its effectiveness over long-term use. The plant is also high in tannins. These, in combination with the anti-inflammatory compounds, make it useful in gastrointestinal upsets such as colitis, dysentery and gastritis. According to Terry Willard, the berries help to mitigate or reduce the effects of poisons taken internally, such as that from eating poisonous mushrooms.The berries are tiny and pulpy, but also sweet and flavourful. First Nations Peoples ate them both fresh and preserved.