The dried leaves of this species were used by Native Americans for smoking and as a tea; tea was also used as a treatment for pinworms. Fresh leaves were steeped and the liquid was used for a wash to treat eczema. Used as part of a poultice to treat rheumatism and neuralgia.

Edibile Uses:
An infusion of the dried leaves makes a pleasant tasting yellow-coloured tea.

Medicinal Uses:
An infusion of the leaves has been used to kill pinworms or any intestinal worms. The infusion is also used to treat eczema, the report does not say it if is used internally or externally. The dried and powdered leaves are applied as a salve to cuts and open wounds. A decoction of the root is used to treat stomach pains. A moxa of the twigs has been used in the treatment of neuralgia and rheumatism.

Other Uses:
Plants have an extensive root system, they tolerate poor dry soils and are also wind resistant, they are used as a windbreak and also to prevent soil erosion. Resinous pustules on the plant contain 'amorpha', a contact and stomachic insecticide that also acts as an insect repellent.