Indian Warrior

Pedicularis densiflora

known commonly as Indian warrior or warrior’s plume, is a plant of the lousewort genus in the broomrape family.

Indian Warrior is native to California and Oregon in western North America and is found in chaparral, forests, California oak woodlands at low elevations. Pedicularis densiflora is a perennial herb with stout, green or sometimes reddish or magenta stems and fern-shaped leaves, and long spikes of deep red to bright pink flowers with toothed petals.

Indian Warrior is used as a tea or tincture to promote healthy immune function and is said to relax tense muscles. The buds and flowers are often added to tea blends for their color, flavor, and relaxing properties. It is also found to be useful warding off sleepless nights, as well as having antioxidant properties.