Serviceberry is one of the enduring "life medicines" of the Navajos, which insure their survival, health, and harmony. It is gathered to treat nausea, stomach problems, animal bites, and recovery from childbirth. It is also valued as a medicine in certain ceremonies, Evil Way and Holy Way. The bland fruits ripen earlier than other berries and were once commonly dried for winter food. The Hopis crafted bows, arrows, and ceremonial prayer sticks, or "pahos," from the wood. The Navajo name is tsé ‘ésgízuu, "grows twisted on rock," and the Hopi name is tuwavi.