Desert Rain, by Yasuko Smith

The smell of the desert after it rains is one of my most favorite smells in nature. Breathing in a deep breath always makes me feel like I’m really taking in actual fresh air. This beautiful smell comes from the bountiful Larrea tridentata, more commonly known as creosote bush. 

Seen in every western movie and really in any desert movie scene, this three to six foot tall plant is known far and wide as a classic, non-cactus, desert plant. The bush boasting yellow flowers with five-petals has many names: creosote bush, greasewood, la Gobernadora (Spanish for the Governess, tribute to the plants prolific dominance over the land), and atukul, so named by the Cahuilla band of Native Americans. 

Photo by Yasuko Smith

The wonderful smell is due to an amazing antioxidant phenol chemical called nordihydroguaiaretic acid, (NDGA). The same chemical also lends itself to medicinal purposes. The leaves and stems can be made into a tea used for chest and lung congestion, colds, stomach cramps and bowel complaints. The steam from boiling leaves can be inhaled to relieve congestion. Liniment, an oil-based lotion or liquid, can reduce swelling and enhance blood circulation, which can be used to treat rheumatism and sciatica. Powdered leaves can be used as an antibacterial wash or solution to treat wounds. While some herbalists still use these practices, one should always consult a doctor before taking any new medications, holistic or otherwise.

Photo by Yasuko Smith

In addition to humans, many desert animal species rely heavily on the creosote bush for survival, seeking both food and shelter. Lizards, rabbits, and snakes and among others seeking shelter from the hot sun under its opposite compounded, joined-leaved branches. The velvet ant a unique species of desert wasp whose wingless females are often mistaken for the white fuzzy fruit of this bush. The fuzzy fruit will easily travel with the wind, but will also attach itself to the fur of desert animals like coyotes and jackrabbits. 

This plant’s ability to survive in a desolate landscape lends itself to its unique adaptations that have ensured its survival; summer temperatures alone can reach well over 115° F. The waxy sheen on the leaves helps reflect sunlight and the leaves remain relatively closed to reduce the amount of water transpired. When it rains, the leaves open up and the whole desert is alerted to the creosote bush’s presence by its fragrant aroma. When I look -or sniff- out into the desert, it's with great appreciation for nature's amazing wonders.