esquite (Prosopis spp.) is a common shrub or small tree found growing throughout the southwest deserts below 5,000 feet. It is easily identifiable by its dark woody base, straight thorns, and legume seed pods. A drought resistant tree with roots that tap deep into the ground-water supply, it marks the pre-dam high water zone along the Colorado River corridor in Grand Canyon.
Native peoples of the southwest relied extensively upon the mesquite. It was among one of the most important food, medicine and utilitarian plants of the greater southwest. Villages were often constructed near large mesquite habitats. This is no surprise since a mature mesquite may produce up to 35 pounds of fruit a year. That fruit was then collected, dried, toasted, and then pounded into a flour which was used to bake cakes and bread. This was an ideal travel and storable food.

The sap is still used as a paint and adhesive for pottery and as a hair dye. Mesquite wood is considered one of the best materials for making utilitarian items such as bowls, spoons, and bows. Of course I don't have to mention it makes for great firewood and barbecue charcoal.
The powdered leaves, pods and bark are all excellent for healing cuts and abrasions. A tea of the powdered plant is used to treat diarrhea, ulcers, hemorrhoids and any intestinal upset. This is due to its anti-microbial and astringent properties. The pods make an incredible healing wash for pink-eye. Dry and irritated throats can be soothed with a cup of this sweet tasting mucilaginous beverage. The pods are also helpful in the treatment of diabetes.

The mesquite beans can be easily collected in nature's supermarket. Just gather the tan pods from the tree then bake them at 150 degrees for thirty minutes. Once cooled, you grind into a powder. The leaves, bark and branches may be harvested anytime. They work best when dried in the shade before use. The flour can also be purchased by the pound through Native Seed/Search in Tucson, Arizona.

DeeAnn Tracy

References:
Michael Moore, Medicinal Plants of the Desert and Canyon West, Museum of New Mexico Press, 1989.
James W. Cornett, Indian Uses Of Desert Plants, Palm Springs Desert Museum, 1995.
Janice Emily Bowers, Shrubs and Trees of the Southwest Deserts, Southwest Parks and Monuments Association, 1993.