Discovering His Creation: Sweet Gum Tree (Liquidambar styraciflua)

The Sweet Gum Tree in our front yard has been there since we moved here in 1977. Of course it was much smaller then and small enough that my Daddy had intended to cut it down. As you can see in the pictures it's not small anymore. It once split into 2 parts and after being struck by lightning the other half died. I still remember that very well when the lightning hit it. Actually I thought the whole tree would die but instead it continued to flourish. I will say I'm not fond of those balls that fall from the tree. They mean year round work for me. The most fall in the winter and if not raked it's impossible to walk in the yard or driveway. It can be dangerous and I have almost fallen from accidentally stepping on one. So one in the yard is one too many. There are some positive things about these trees. One is the fragrance! The leaves have a fresh smell that reminds me of some household cleaners like Pine-sol. There are also other positive things that I was not aware of until a few years ago. It was used medicinally by the Native Americans and still used by some. A resin obtained from the trunk of the tree has been used as a antiseptic, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, parasiticide, poultice and salve. It has been chewed for treating sore throats, coughs and asthma. Externally it can applied to sores and wounds, etc. Let's don't forget some of the other uses for this tree like; perfumes, soaps, flooring and furniture. The Sweet Gum tree is native to the southeastern United states and also can be found in Central America and Mexico. It's a member of a genus consisting only of 6 species. The other 6 are found in Asia. It's amazing the things you can learn and discover about the creation God has placed right where you are. Things you might overlook or view as a negative maybe more valuable than you think. Take a look around and discover God's creation where you are. You might be surprised at what you find!