Inter-relationship with Buffalo
In Lakota worldview, the people placed higher value on land, water, animals, and plants than on themselves. It was acknowledged that their survival depended on the survival of the earth. Native Americans relied heavily upon buffalo for food, clothing, shelter, and tools. Every single part of the buffalo was utilized. Native Americans’ deep connection with buffalo still remains. Historically, buffalo were the first teachers, and they continue to provide a connection with the ancestors, spiritually and culturally. They take care of the people, and the people care for them in return. This reciprocal relationship is sacred.
Land Restoration
Buffalo would eat thíŋpsiŋla, which then went through their digestive tract. After entering in and out the digestive tract, this would help other plants germinate. Over time as the buffalo traveled, their prong-shaped hooves would help smush plant seeds into the ground. This helped with regenerating soil and native plants. Buffalo created large wallows in the earth by rolling on the ground. These movements created more opportunities for moisture to collect, which produced habitats for new bug life and other animals. The actions of the buffalo as they roamed the grasslands helped prevent excessive overgrowth and generated a healthier ecosystem.
The ecosystem is reliant on buffalo; many other species depend on bison and their habits. Without them, this would have negative impacts and would change the ecosystem. Buffalo walk hand-in-hand with nature. Unintentionally, the buffalo help restore the land, lives, and the economy of the people.
Health
Buffalo meats were the main food source for the Lakota, and they would have to harvest large amounts of it to feed thousands of people. Buffalo meat has high nutritional value. The protein in buffalo has all the essential amino acids which is good for our nervous, detoxification, digestive, and immune systems. They have vitamins and minerals in them that are good for humans. Native Americans hold these creatures so dear to them because they restore the health of the people. By incorporating buffalo meat into their diets, it reduces diabetes, helps weight loss, and improves heart health.
“According to the USDA, bison is clearly the better choice with significantly less fat and calories, less cholesterol and bison contains higher amounts of protein, iron and vitamin B-12 than beef, pork, chicken and salmon.” (National Bison Association)
The buffalo organs were the most prized pieces of meat. Organs nourish humans better than the bulk meats of the buffalo. The organs were used in ceremonies. After being cleaned, dried, and inflated, the organs provided other uses such as water bottles and waterproof bags.