​David Prescott Barrows’ “The Ethno-Botany of the Coahuilla Indians of Southern California,” published in 1900, is a seminal work that delves into the intricate relationship between the Coahuilla people and their natural environment. Drawing from his doctoral dissertation at the University of Chicago, Barrows offers a comprehensive study of the Coahuilla’s use of native plants for various purposes, including food, medicine, tools, and ceremonial practices. His research provides valuable insights into the sustainable practices and deep ecological knowledge possessed by the Coahuilla, reflecting a harmonious coexistence with the desert landscape of southern California.​

The book is structured into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of Coahuilla life. Barrows begins with an introduction to the linguistic and tribal affiliations of the Coahuilla, setting the stage for understanding their cultural context. He then explores the Coahuilla’s habitat, detailing the environmental conditions of southern California and how these influenced their lifestyle and survival strategies. The subsequent chapters delve into material culture, examining the construction of houses, the art of basket-making, and the utilization of plant materials in various crafts. A significant portion of the work is dedicated to the gathering, preparation, and storage of food, highlighting the Coahuilla’s knowledge of edible plants and their methods of preserving them for sustenance. Barrows also discusses the use of plants for medicinal and ceremonial purposes, illustrating the spiritual and healing practices integral to Coahuilla society.​

Barrows’ meticulous documentation of plant species and their uses serves as a testament to the Coahuilla’s profound understanding of their environment. The book not only catalogues the various plants but also describes the techniques employed in harvesting and processing them, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the Coahuilla people. This ethnobotanical study underscores the importance of plants in the Coahuilla’s cultural identity and survival, emphasizing their role as both practical resources and sacred entities.​

While “The Ethno-Botany of the Coahuilla Indians of Southern California” was groundbreaking at the time of its publication, subsequent research has expanded upon Barrows’ findings. For instance, the work “Temalpakh: Cahuilla Indian Knowledge and Usage of Plants” by Bean and Saubel builds upon Barrows’ foundation, offering a more comprehensive account of over 250 plant species used by the Cahuilla, reflecting a deeper ecological awareness and a broader scope of ethnobotanical knowledge. Nevertheless, Barrows’ original study remains a crucial reference point for understanding the rich ethnobotanical heritage of the Coahuilla Indians and their enduring connection to the land.​