Sumac: The Powerful Medicinal Herb Sumac (Rhus coriaria) is a versatile and highly beneficial herb that has been used for centuries in different cultures for its medicinal properties. It belongs to the Anacardiaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region, although it can also be found in other parts of the world. Sumac is a shrub or small tree with bright red berries and leaves that turn a stunning deep red in the autumn.