Rhodora, canadian rhododendron

Its bark and flowers are said to be effective against gout and rheumatism. Because the leaves of related species are made into infusions, rhodora could have the same properties. Caution is advisable, however, because some plants in the Ericaceae family are toxic. Indigenous peoples from Delaware nation committed suicide by eating kalmia (Kalmis polifolia, K. angustifolia, K. latifolia). The leaves should be infused rather than boiled so as not to release the toxin. Livestock is very sensitive to the toxins in these plants.