ENGLISH NAME: Sumac
LATIN NAME: Rhus coriaria
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Sumach
Turkey: Sumak
Bulgaria: Смрадлика (Smradlika)
Georgia: თუთუბო (Tutubo)
COUNTRY: Turkey, Bulgaria,
Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Racha, Adjara, and widespread in the Mediterranean and Western Asia
Elevation: Up to 1,000 meters above sea level
Terrain: Stony slopes, thickets, woodland edges, and scrub
DESCRIPTION:
Sumac is a deciduous shrub or small tree, growing up to 8 meters tall, with
compound leaves featuring 9–17 ovate, coarsely toothed leaflets. The upper side
of the leaves is green, while the underside is paler and veined. The plant
produces dense clusters of small, crimson-red berries. Poison Sumac (a
different species) can be distinguished by its shorter leaves, fewer leaflets,
and smooth leaf edges.
USABLE PARTS: Leaves, berries, roots
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Sumac Berries:
– Antioxidant effects (combat oxidative stress)
– Anti-inflammatory properties
– Digestive aid (traditionally used for digestive support)
Sumac Leaves:
– Antibacterial and antifungal activity
– Diuretic and anti-inflammatory potential
Sumac Roots:
– Traditional medicinal uses for digestive issues
– Suggested anti-inflammatory effects
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Berries:
– Allergic skin reactions or blisters in sensitive individuals
– Gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excess
Leaves:
– May contribute to kidney stone formation (due to oxalates)
– Photosensitivity (possible skin reactions)
Roots:
– Limited research on safety; use with caution
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Not well documented; consult a healthcare professional before combining with
other medications.
PREPARATION:
– Sumac Berry Infusion: Crush
dried berries and infuse in boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and sweeten
if desired.
– Leaf Poultice: Crush fresh
leaves into a paste with warm water, apply to skin for
antibacterial/anti-inflammatory use.
– Root Decoction: Boil dried
roots for 15–20 minutes; strain and cool before use.
– Infused Oil: Place dried
berries/leaves in carrier oil, seal, infuse for 2–4 weeks, strain for topical
use.
HARVEST TIME:
– Berries: Late summer to early fall
– Leaves: Spring or early summer
– Roots: Fall or early spring
HARVEST METHOD:
– Berries: Snip clusters with clean scissors/shears; wear gloves if sensitive
– Leaves: Snip individual leaves/clusters, harvesting less than one-third per
plant
– Roots: Carefully dig around the base, harvesting only a portion to allow
regrowth
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
– Air-dry harvested berries, leaves, or roots and store in airtight containers
away from sunlight
– Freeze for long-term storage if needed
– Infused vinegar or oil can also be used for preservation