Native Americans and in particular the Ute Tribe from Utah and Colorado had several uses for this plant: leaves were smoked as a tobacco substitute for their mildly hallucinogenic effects (Tobacco sage does not appear to be orally active[8]); it was used in sweatlodge ceremonies by throwing small amounts of the leaves on the burning rocks used to make steam.
Western tribes used a tea mixed with Echinacea angustifolia, Veratrum, and Salvia dorrii to reduce the size of cancerous tumors. The compounds in Salvia dorrii were reported to potentiate the medicinal properties of Veratrum root while reducing the toxic side effects of the steroidal alkaloids found in Veratrum species. Salvia dorrii has mildly laxative effects when ingested. [9]
This plant can be made into a tea, which decreases sweating, salivation, and mucous secretions in the sinuses, throat, and lungs. Cold tea can be a good stomach tonic, while a lukewarm tea is good for treating sore throats. The leaves can also be used as a uterine hemostatic tea for heavy menstruation; however, since it can also decrease lactation, nursing mothers are advised not to use it.[10]
Some chemical components found in Salvia dorrii include Salvidorol and two epimeric abietane diterpenes (2 and 3).[11]
