Common Name: Purple Aster Plant Species: Machaeranthera spp. Family: Asteraceae Photographer: Calvin J. Hamilton Copyright: © 2003 Rosanna Hamilton Date: 2003/07/24 Location: Petroglyph National Monument, New Mexico

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These flowers are found widespread in New Mexico during the fall. A concoction of leaves and stems was used by native peoples as a stimulant, especially effective for women in labor. Tea from the ground plant was used to treat upset stomachs. The Navajo used it to clear nose congestion and to treat pimples.