Folklore

The word sumac is thought to have originated from the Greek word for ‘red’. Some Native American tribes believed that it had the ability to predict the weather and change the seasons.

Sumac has been used to treat an astounding number of ailments over the ages. It has been thought to heal everything from colds and fevers to bladder inflammation and rectal bleeding.

For a time, it was believed that eating the berries of a sumac tree would cure those who suffer from bedwetting. This may have been because it was thought to cure several urinary problems including painful urination and urine retention.