Acorn Flour Cookies and Acorn Coffee.

Here is a very good article on leeching tannins from acorns.

Gourmet Foraging and Advanced Acorn Processing

These are good cookies i loved them. I put peanut butter on the cookies but you could put it in them. I used a coarser flour for these ones and they seemed too gritty. I wanted to see how they tasted with a coarser flour. Grinding the flour so it is finer seems to give you more flavor. These come out with a slight chocolate like taste.

2 Cups Acorn flower – finely ground and sifted of any impurities for a smooth chocolate or more coarse for a nutty texture. Dry roast it on a cookie sheet in the oven at 200 until dark almost chocolate colored. I heated the flour I made the cookies in the pictures from for too long and they came out with a slight bitter taste. They taste better if you roast them a little lighter.

½ cup of honey or other sweetener.

½ cup of peanut butter.

2/3 cup of coconut oil, ghee, butter or another kind of fat. If you use the peanut butter in the cookie instead of on it then use a little less fat.

Just a dash of sea salt.
Combine sugar, milk and the fat source you have chosen in a pan along with the salt and if you choose to put the peanut butter in the cookie instead of on it then also put it in the pan. Cook on low heat until the moisture is gone then add the flour you roasted and stir. When mixed well use a tablespoon to drop onto a greased cookie sheet. Refrigerate , I hope you enjoy them.

 

IMG_20181108_123005

Acorn Coffee.

 

To make the coffee grind some nuts up in a coffee grinder then put on a cookie sheet and roast them in the oven on 250 until they are brown for light coffee. For a stronger coffee roast them at 300. I do not know the timing because I go by sight. The coffee in the picture is a light coffee. It has a slight nutty flavor.

Horsweed

 

Conyza Canadensis

Used to be known as Erigeron Canadensis. It has a somewhat hot taste like black pepper. I like the taste but I think it is better to use as a spice. Many use it in place of tarragon. I do not know what tarragon taste like so cannot comment on that. I used to grow it now I try and manage it. It does not take much for it to get away from you and overtake things. Some call it Horseweed, some call it mares tail. Is resistant to glyphosate so be careful where you forage it.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/horseweed.aspx

http://www.eattheweeds.com/conyza-canadensis-herb-fire-food-2/

It helps fight cancer and reduces oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26846256

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21294076

Kills flukes.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26695200

Phytochemicals, wow has some good ones.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23270230

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21954558

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/cpb/50/12/50_12_1558/_article

Has anti-inflammatory effects, possibly by upregulating heme oxygenase-1 expression.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4122705/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19521071

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3725873

Prevents blood clotting.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21172723

http://www.elis.sk/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=625&category_id=28&option=com_virtuemart&vmcchk=1&Itemid=1

Fights parasites and fungus.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22612410

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23049473

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21054146

Antibacterial.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22623891

Seems it may help with adrenal fatigue.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20121251

Reduces oxidative stress, and decreases CO2 generation in platelets.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16973495

Plantain Herb

 

 

Plantago Major and Plantago Lanceolata

Most call P. Major broad leaf plantain and P. Lanceolata narrow leaf plantain. The health benefits are similar but P. Major taste much better though I like the taste of both, I prefer P. Major. Or P Rugelii which looks similar to P. Major but it has a purple or red color at the bottom of the leaf stem. It is the mildest tasting of the three and has a somewhat sweet taste. This is another herb that is a power house when it comes to healing. It can help balance the immune system. Helps with inflammation and poor blood circulation. Kills many pathogens and has amazing healing abilities. It can kill gangrene so the phytochemicals are being researched in it. It also fights chronic illnesses even cancer. I have found it works fantastic for rashes especially poison ivy. To prevent a rash I will take Jewel Weed and use the juices because it is good at breaking up the urishiol. It doesn’t prevent the rash though but will reduce the effects of the urishiol in poison ivy or poison sumac. I then use the juice from plantain to prevent the a rash. It contains biacalein which is what give sculletaria it’s healing benefits.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/rugels-plantain.aspx

https://wellnessmama.com/4638/plantain-herb-profile/

Cancer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29710521

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28839362

Speeds up the healing of wounds and prevents infection.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29575942

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25244603

Protects the renal system from inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29632849

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29507272

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28335408

It also protects our bodies from oxidative stress which is the cause of chronic illness.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27514764

The many benefits are listed in this study.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5878035/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29028587

It contians biacalein and aucubin. This gives it many healing abilities along with the ability to fight pathogens. Biacalein has been shown to reverse some injury to the cardiovascular system and the lungs.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26618515

Contains oligosaccharides (mucilage) which help balance gut bacteria and heal the gut.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28704184

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10399303

The seeds have the most mucilage and really helped heal my gut. The seeds are what most know as physillium.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27702546

Angelica

 

Angelica Archangelica

This is not medical advice it should not be taken as such. I am posting this for informational and educational purposes only. If in doubt do not use a plant if you are not certain of it’s safety or identification.

Angelica is related to carrots and celery so will taste similar. I have Angelica Archangelica and it has a mild celery like taste. Some species of Angelica can cause light sensitivity when eaten. A. Sylvestris is one of them. There are many toxic plants that look very similar so make certain you know this one before you even try to use it. Angelica has a husk like part close to where the stems meet. The one I am familiar with is Angelica Archangelica. It is the only one I have seen. It can get very tall, mine used to be then I cut it down. Every since I cut it down it has not recovered.

Identifying

High country angelica

Each Angelica species has their own unique benefits. A. Archangelica has free radical scavenging properties, and strong antimicrobial properties and taste good to.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5620520/

Angelica Root Extract

Reduces anxiety

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22960104

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23297567

Those with high acetycholine levels should not take it because it can slightly raise acetycholine levels.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21786787

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18069242

Leaves and stems are best for anxiety.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3942901/

Fights cancer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15813373

http://iv.iiarjournals.org/content/19/1/191.long

Has hepatoprotective effects.

https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/69530

Prevents seizures

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3003174/

Prevents skin aging.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/php.12595

Inhibits herpes and coxsackie

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28487231

If there is poison Hemlock nearby don’t use it . There are claims Angelica and Hemlock can hybridize.

Wild Sarsparilla

 

Aralia Nudicaulis

Please make certain you know a plant before using it. If in doubt don’t. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

I have eaten the leaves of wild sarsparilla they do not have much flavor. The roots I have made tea with and I do not think the tea tasted very good but it does have many health benefits. This is in the same family as Panax Gensing and has many of the same chemical properties which means it is adaptogenic.

http://foragenortheast.com/plants/s-t/sarsaparilla-wild/

It is in the same family as gensing so has many of the same properties.

http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/woodland/plants/wild_sarsaparilla.htm

Phytochemicals.

http://doctorschar.com/false-sarsaparilla-aralia-nudicaulis/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26669092

Fights cancer

http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/26/3A/2157.long

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17034664

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16827159

Fights mycoplasma

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22234257

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4981992/

Golden Rod

Solidago Canadensis

Golden Rod has a peppery taste. I have eaten the root when young and it is tasty but not so tasty when it gets older. It has great detoxing and antibiotic properties. It helps reduce coughing. Most only eat the leaves and flowers. I do know it must kill tick born illness because when I first drank tea made from it I herxed very bad.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/goldenrod.aspx

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23041666

http://ndnr.com/autoimmuneallergy-medicine/solidago-an-inflammation-modulator/

https://www.stlukes-stl.com/health-content/medicine/33/000251.htm

In low doses in increases reactive oxygen species and in high doses it lowers them.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23848059

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16451754

Phytochemicals.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22007910

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23600612

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11985846

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10190971

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1367338

Has antibacterial properties

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3979189/

Inhibits cancer growth.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15519169

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894524/

Smilax

Smilax

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. I am posting this for informational and educational purposes only. If in doubt don’t get to know a plant and it’s safety before using it.

There are many plants in the Smilax family in my area which is the eastern part of the United States. The ones I am familiar with are S. Ecirrhata, and S. Tamnoides. S. Tamnoides has briars on them that really hurt when jagged by them. We also have S. Glauca, S. Herbaceous, S. Rotundifolia, S. Pulverulenta, and S. Pseudochina in my area. I have eaten the leaves and like the taste. Many say the young shoots taste like asparagus. I have never eaten the roots but they are edible.

http://floridahillbilly.com/smilax-a-backyard-wild-edible/

http://www.eattheweeds.com/smilax-a-brier-and-thats-no-bull/

Most of them have the same phytochemicals that I am familiar with so they will be the ones I list studies on.

Has anti allergy properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26387391

fights cancer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4351248/

http://cancerpreventionresearch.aacrjournals.org/content/8/5/464.long

http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/20/12/19890

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26607178

http://cancerpreventionresearch.aacrjournals.org/content/8/5/464.long

Reduces inflammation

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25817687

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4363603/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5585559/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4244943/

Helps with pelvic inflammatory disease.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23353177

Protects against myocardial hypertrophy.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25926285

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23954280

Cardioprotective

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24953033

Has antimicrobial properties.

http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/18/5/5265

May have hepaprotective effects.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23681353

Contain Astilbin which is renal protective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19644810

Contains steroidal saponins. Which has antifungal, and anti inflammatory.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5507813/

Protects from lead poisoning.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20580805

Reduces oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4244943/

Contains taxifolin which has many health benefits. It is also known as dihydroquerciten. Too many benefits to list here.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12016952

Fights herpes and other viruses

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf030837o

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0192415X08005692?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%3Dpubmed

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16375860

Helps with gout

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24140588

Wild Yam

 

 

Dioscoria Villosa

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. I am posting this for educational and informational purposes only. Please be careful make sure you know a plant before you use it.

Known as Wild Yam. I have tasted it, it is not to bad. The leaves and root contain estrogen like chemicals and have steroidal like properties. This one has been found to have many benefits for women. There are hundreds of varieties of Discoria and many of them have similar phytochemicals. The most common one found in North America is D Villosa. There is one from China that grows a bigger root. D Villosa is the one I grow. It contains diosgenin which is an estrogen like chemical.

https://draxe.com/wild-yam/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3935402/

Helps with menstruation and and female fertility.

http://natural-fertility-info.com/reproductive-system-support-for-women-with-wild-yam.html

Has steroidal type properties.

https://www.herbs2000.com/homeopathy/dioscorea.htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5592723/

The leaves have antioxidants and do not taste that bad.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29731440

Has steroid like properties which reduces pain and inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3734200/

Helps with breast cancer.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003986115301120?via%3Dihub

Helps with hyperglycemia

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24607838

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4162539/

Not certain of this study haven’t seen others. Claims over consumption can cause kidney fibrosis.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691508003748?via%3Dihub

Can inhibit bone loss.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3913014/

Here is a recent study showing diosgenin fights cancer, inflammation, increases thickness of skin, has antibiotic properties, helps with diabetes, helps with thrombosis (blood clotting), and is and anticoagulant. Has cardioprotective properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5225340/

Prevents oxalates.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0009279714002658?via%3Dihub

Curly Dock and Yellow Dock

 

Yellow dockRumex Crispus

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. I have posted this for informational and educational purposes. Know your plants if in doubt don’t . Some parts of plants are edible while other parts can be lethal.

There are many species of yellow dock but the one most are familiar with is R. Obtusifolius. It has many benefits from detoxing, providing much needed nutrients especially minerals. The young shouts and leaves can be eaten but become high oxalate when they get older especially when the stems start turning red. Oxalates can cause severe damage in the body and even death. It is why I mainly use the root and only eat the stems once in a while when they are very young. Young first years roots taste good cooked in butter they have kind of a nutty flavor. When they get older they get tough and bitter. I use second year roots to make tea. So separate the seeds from the husk and use them to make flour. I have not been successful with that. I did see a video on Youtube were a young man used a food processor with a dough mixing blade on it to separate them and then put them on a tray an place a fan by them to blow the husk away and it seemed to work pretty well. The health benefits of the root is pretty astounding to me. There are other types of dock with similar benefits but in my area Yellow Dock is the most common. Most Docks have cross bread and share the similar benefits. R. Obtusifolius or very common and have cross bread so much you can barely tell them apart.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/yellow-dock.aspx

https://www.mommypotamus.com/yellow-dock-root-benefits-uses/

The leaves are so high in oxalates eating them can be fatal.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2238449

The seeds have antifungal properties.

http://jjmicrobiol.com/en/articles/13733.html

It is a good source of antioxidants.

http://www.sciencedomain.org/abstract/16950

Helps with just about every illness it is even good for detoxing.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26384001

Since most Yellow Dock has cross bread with Curly Dock I am going to include studies on it.

Has renal protective effects.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5424563/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0960894X13005404?via%3Dihub

Contains nepodin which helps with diabetes

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24756979

Nepodin malaria

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs12272-013-0055-0

Protects DNA and fights cancer.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3506869/

The fruit protects from oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20623623

The root prevents bone loss so would help with osteoporosis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5657118/

Velvet Leaf Plant

Abutilon Theophrasti

This is not medical advice I am posting this for information and educational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt don’t make certain of a plant before you use it.

I have eaten the seeds but no other parts. This plant is new to me. I know it is Roundup ready because I have seen it in field that had been sprayed by Glyphosate containing products so be careful where you forage it. They can overtake a crop and can reduce production. The fiber is used to make rope. I have seen sites that claimed the seeds can remain viable in the soil for many many years. So when I forage them for the seeds I pull the whole plant out because I get them from a friend who grows his crops organically and uses no harmful chemicals.

http://www.eattheweeds.com/velvet-leaf-fiber-and-food/

https://gobotany.newenglandwild.org/species/abutilon/theophrasti/

The leaves have antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves also reduce hydroxy radicals.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5872602/

http://www.ptfarm.pl/pub/File/Acta_Poloniae/2017/3/881.pdf

Contain Hibiscuslide C which is antifungal.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23816874

The flowers are high in flavoniods.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16161355

Self Heal

self heal

Prunella Vulgaris is the one I am familiar with Prunella Grandiflora has bigger flowers and I have never seen it. They are known as heallall, or self heal.

This is not medical advice this is form information and educational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt don’t, if you are not certain of the identification of a plant do not use it. Has many health benefits and has been shown to stimulate healing throughout the body including areas that are difficult to heal like cartilage and ligaments. Has been shown to fight cancer and infection.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/self-heal.aspx

Fights cancer through multiple pathways.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25331476

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5865815/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27586473

https://www.spandidos-publications.com/or/34/5/2445

Protects against UVB damage and aging.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29378470

Prevents renal fibrosis so would help with fatty liver.

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0192415X1750029X?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%3Dpubmed

Protects cognitive function.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28001065

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26376910

Helps with diabetes.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27768926

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25278372

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3471066/

Helps with autoimmunity,excess inflammation and allergies.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27566209

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26996013

http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2015/FO/C4FO01039F#!divAbstract

Helps fight Ebola.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26778707

Helps with leaky gut.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4635162/

Helps with fatty liver.

https://www.thieme-connect.com/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-0035-1558112

Is high in ursolic acid which has many health benefits.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25088993

https://www.truthinaging.com/ingredients/ursolic-acid

Phytochemistry

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25078822

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4206729/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21498022

Anti inflammatory

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3856017/

Prevents heart disease

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3789443/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4133916/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4782109/

Great for detoxing.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23477155

Helps with ADD

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23348874

Reduces oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3269750/pdf/ijms-13-01258.pdf

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/31/3/31_3_531/_article

Inhibits HMGB1 which helps with sepsis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21971692

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4363608/

Inhibits HIV infection

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3096947/

Inhibits virus replication

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2645367/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17475343

https://www.thieme-connect.com/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-2006-951719

Helps with mast cell activation syndrome or allergies.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17609508

Skullcap

Scutellaria

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such , I am posting this for information and educational purposes only. If in doubt don’t please know your plants before using them.

There are many plants that are poisonous that get mistaken for Scutellaria and are sometimes contaminants in supplements containing Skullcap. Two of the most common that can be mistaken for Skullcap that are poisonous are Downy Skullcap (scutellaria icana) and Germander which is in the Teucrium family.

The ones with the most health benefits in the order of effectiveness are Sculletaria Racemosa, Sculletaria Biacalensis, and the one with the best sedative effects is Sculletaria Lateriflore.

They contain biacalein which I have seen miss spelled as biacalin in some studies. It has amazing healing abilities. S Racemosa has the highest levels of biacelain. It has been shown to be very effective against cancer with little side effects. One of the problems I had with Skullcap was that it healed my nerves and improved my blood circulations so fast that all heck broke loose. The best way I can describe it is when you sleep on your arm and it goes to sleep. As the blood flow returns you experience muscle spasms and major tingling. That happened to me for about three days when I started taking it and then I started to feel much much better. I was surprised at how fast it was healing me. I used Sculletaria Racemosa.

https://draxe.com/skullcap/

Skullcap

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3678518/

Biacalein has been shown to be effective against liver fibrosis and correct metabolic disorders.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3678518/

Skullcap helps with asthma and COPD.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5971322/

It has antibacterial and anti inflammatory effects which helps prevent periodontal disease.

https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/92853

Effective against various types of cancer.

https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/mmr.2018.9036

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5929448/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29797601

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5688794/

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0192415X18500027?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%3Dpubmed

This would also help interstitial cystitis because this is something cancer patients and those with interstitial cystitis have in common.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29697746

Reduces artherosclerosis by reducing oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29793330

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29495284

Reduces inflammation and the way it does it would be very beneficial for those with interstitial cystitis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29331857

Reduces hypertension

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0192415X18500404?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%3Dpubmed

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5543745/

Improves chances of having a successful pregnancy.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5963314/

Helps with autoimmune disorders.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29656117

Protects the brain and nerves and stimulates healing.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5758355/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21718777

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/41/4/41_b17-00768/_article

Helps with NAFLD, fatty liver disease.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29542003

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29158052

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29031535

Helps fight the flu.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5869510/

http://www.elis.sk/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=5567&category_id=145&option=com_virtuemart&vmcchk=1&Itemid=1

Prevents heart failure.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5783530/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29047162

https://www.spandidos-publications.com/mmr/16/6/9251

Reduces bone inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29253124

Helps heal leaky gut.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707656/

Helps with diabetes.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29028535

The list goes on and on as to the benefits of Skullcap.

Purslane a super food.

 

 

Portulaca Oleracea

Purslane is a super food it has almost all the nutrients the body needs including fats needed by the body. It is slightly tangy in the morning but after the sun has hit it the tangyness goes away and it has a nutty flavor when cooked. I love it raw in salads and it is great in stir fries. It is very high in mucilage so can be used to thicken soups. It is an unusual plant because when broken off the detach branch can form seeds. It is one of my favorites and I grow it in big quantities because of the many uses it has.

http://www.ediblewildfood.com/purslane.aspx

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/purslane.html

It has many health benefits, it is anti ulcerative, fights cancer, reduces oxidative stress, helps with diabetes, fights cancer, and reduces inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4321094/

It stimulates insulin secretion.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5974063/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29514130

It enhances glucose uptake.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29341802

Fights inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29685654

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27396870

Is hepaprotective.

http://www.eurekaselect.com/160877/article

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5749558/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4399094/

Helps with colitis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29579933

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4891426/

Enhances cognitive function.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28363525

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19879120

Reduces lung inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5641415/

Contains Alpha Linolenic Acid and Omega 3 fatty acids.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28732439

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3934766/

Fights cancer.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28714363

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27911090

Helps with asthma.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5316266/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4376287/

Is neuroprotective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5126344/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27731637

http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0001-37652016005010109&lng=en&nrm=iso&tlng=en

Hmmm same thing that is used in vaccines is used to damage the brains of rats. Well Purslane helps with that also.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26563420

Reduces blood pressure.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26854844

antimicrobial.

http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/20/9/16375

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26904730

Inhibits hepatitis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25871297

Helps with osteoporosis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4501198/

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/38/1/38_b14-00567/_article

Reduces oxLDL

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25442258

Fights fatigue.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25296504

The list of benefits goes on and on. It is one amazing plant.

Knotgrass

Polygonum Aviculare

This is not medical advice it is for information and educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, please make sure you know your plants before using them.

Also known as knotgrass. Usually used to make tea. In Japan it is used in soups and crushed and used in many other dishes. It has oxy radical scavenging abilities.

http://www.ediblewildfood.com/knotgrass.aspx

https://medievaldigger.wordpress.com/2015/03/02/spring-is-coming-and-so-is-the-knotgrass-an-herbal-wound-cleanser/

It can scavenge peroxynitrate which cause a lot of damage in the body especially to the bladder and blood brain barrier. It reduces oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24270289

https://scielo.conicyt.cl/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0716-97602006000200010&lng=en&nrm=iso&tlng=en

Prevents artherosclerosis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24370878

Slows aging because it is high in Juglanin

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24638927

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24519811

Helps with asthma and COPD.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5814568/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5881803/

High in Juglanin which inhibits cancer.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5706842/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27899257

Is neuroprotective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29136779

Juglanin is hepaprotective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27261609

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21783944

Promotes healing.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26929003

Has antimicrobial properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3730555/

Reduces fibrosis

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10706393

Wild Violet

Viola

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. It is for information and educational purposes. If in doubt don’t make sure you know your plant before you use them.

Their are many species of wild violet but their nutrients and phytochemistry is pretty much the same.

Viola Biflora, Viola Canina, Viola, V. Labradorica, V. Odorata, V. Rostrata, and V. Sororia are the ones I am familiar with. They all taste the same to me. I love them it is one of my favorite wild edibles. I could eat wild violets daily. They have similar nutrients as dandelion only higher levels of them.

http://www.ediblewildfood.com/wild-violet.aspx

https://thesurvivalmom.com/enjoy-wild-violets/

The viola species have hepaprotective properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5217637/

They reduce inflammation and an over active immune system.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3918579/

Reduces coughing

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25954025

Phytochemicals that are good for the heart and oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23035206

Reduces oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4967839/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26751970

Is nueroprotective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27516984

Anti inflammatory.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17983197

Fights cancer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4163403/

Fight bacterial infections.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20558471

Reduces histamines

http://www.thepab.org/files/2017/March-2017/PAB-MS-160199.pdf

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874113005941

Is high in mucilage which heals the gut. It is so high that when I make tinctures they come out like a gel.

https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/herbs/v-z/viola-tricolor/

Ironweed, Veronia species of flowers.

 

 

Written by Lee Stevenson. Sorry I am a lousy editor. This is not medical advice this is for educational and informational purposes. If you are ill please seek the help of a knowledgeable naturopath or other professional.

Veronia Noveboracensis known as New York Ironweed is the one I am familiar with. Most of the Veronia species contain Vernolid A which has been shown to inhibit cancer. V Noveboracensis does not contain as much as the others. This is the only species I have seen in person.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21256125

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22176676

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21649480

Veronia Amygdalina and V. Cinerea were the most potent of the Veronia species.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23395623

V Amygdalina reduces oxidative stress and helps with diabetes.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4295350/

V Cinerea can help with nicotine addiction.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25857233

V Amygdalina can reduce oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26196573

V amydalina is hepaprotective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25553678

Have not seen toxicity studies on the other Veronia species but V. Cinerea shows no toxicity.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20645763

Prickly Lettuce also known as opium lettuce.

Written by Lee Stevenson, sorry I am a lousy editor.

This is not medical advice this is for educational purposes. If you are ill please seek the aid of a qualified and experienced functional medicine practitioner.

Prickly Lettuce also Known as Opium Lettuce.

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. It is for information and educational purposes. Know your plants before using them. If in doubt don’t.

Lactuca Virosa is in the lettuce family it is wild lettuce. It contains the highest amounts of Luctucarium a pain killer that has sedative effects. It is chemically similar to opium but is non addictive. Luctucarium is the white milky substance you see when you peel a leaf from a head of lettuce. Domesticated lettuce seeds are also high in it. Prickly Lettuce has a bitter taste but I kind of like the taste. It has been shown to have anti inflammatory properties.

It is very good for killing pain. It works through the opioid receptors but is not addictive. Lactucins is the ingredient that has the pain killing effects. It is also a sedative so it should not be used when driving or working. When I was researching this I was surpised that chicory also contains lactucin.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17152761/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16621374/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34204287/

Lactones like lactucin helps to reduce inflammation.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34208907/

Prickly lettuce also stimulates healing in the brain and is neuroprotective.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874116324631?via%3Dihub

It has been used to treat Hooping cough.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2129023/

Many call it health lettuce now. It is very high in minerals and vitamins A and K.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874106001280?via%3Dihub

There have been incidences of overdosing but none fatal that I am aware of.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3031874/

Has been shown to fight malaria.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037887410400337X?via%3Dihub

Information on preparation and usage.

http://entheology.com/plants/lactuca-virosa-wild-lettuce-opium/

There are a variety of wild lettuce and most are not as potent as L. Virosa.

https://wildfoodgirl.com/2013/let-us-appreciate-wild-lettuce/

It also contains vitamin A.

http://www.specialtyproduce.com/produce/_Wild_Lettuce_10294.php

Wild Lettuce, Tasty Greens and Valued Herbal Remedies

Lobelia also known as indian tabacco.

Lobelia Inflata

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt don’t please know your plants before using them. Helps those with breathing issues.

Has been used to break nicotine addiction. Has an alkaloid similar to nicotine but non addictive. Has been shown to reduce nicotine withdrawal. Can cause overdose similar to nicotine overdose so has to be used with causion. Most of the lobelia have the same phytochemicals but Lobelia Inflata is the most potent and the one I am most familiar with. I cannot identify the others.

https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/lung-cleansing-benefits-of-lobelia/

https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-lobelia.html

Nicotine like alkaloid.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26259655

Can reduce the cancers resistance to apoptosis.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711307003066?via%3Dihub

Can help with depression.

https://jpharmsci.org/article/S0022-3549(15)48894-X/pdf

Has sedative properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8103103

Stimulates the VMAT2 receptor also known as the God receptor because it activate when we participate in spiritual things. Vaccines can damage and inhibit the VMAT receptor which can cause psychosis and bipolarism. It also helps break the abuse when addicted to psychtropic drugs.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3725992/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24484975

Some of the chemicals in lobelia are Sigma1 agonist so would help with methamphetamine addiction.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3157915/

When used in moderation it is hepaprotective.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5416629/

Helps with asthma and bronchitis but has many side effects if over used.

https://www.stlukes-stl.com/health-content/medicine/33/000264.htm

Lemon Balm

Melissa Officinalis

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. If in doubt don’t if you do not know a plant do not use it.

Lemon Balm is good for soothing the stomach and for relaxing. It has also been shown to be good for making a balm for herpes chancres. Improves blood sugar levels, also helps with getting restful sleep. Has been shown to protect the brain cells.

https://thenerdyfarmwife.com/12-things-to-do-with-lemon-balm/

https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/9-benefits-of-lemon-balm/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3230760/

Helps fight viruses even herpes.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24817544

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5613005/

Safe to consume in large quantities.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4433273/

Is good at treating and preventing oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871149/

It helps with ventricular arrhythmia.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5586902/

Has been shown to help with heart palpitations.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874115000781?via%3Dihub

Has antimicrobial properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20201279

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26075899

The flavonoids found in Lemon Balm along with other herbs have antidepressant properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5829422/

Fights cancer

http://journal.waocp.org/?sid=Entrez:PubMed&id=pmid:26320439&key=2015.16.14.5703

Phytochemicals

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26495650

Reduces premenstrual symptoms.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557408/

Improves cognitive function.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1738567/

Has been shown to reduce histamines.

http://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1342&context=ebl

Lady’s Thumb

 

Persicaria Maculosa it is also referred to as Polygonum Persicaria.

This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. If in doubt don’t. Make sure you know a plant before you use it. I have eaten Lady’s Thumb, it does not have much taste but a similar plant that can easily be mistaken for lady’s thumb has a peppery taste. I do not think it has much nutritional value but some studies have shown it reduces symptoms of herpes.

http://www.weedinfo.ca/en/weed-index/view/id/POLPE

Lady’s Thumb does contain a potassium channel blocker. This means it could slow the heart rate down.

https://www.thieme-connect.com/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-0033-1351016

This also gives it cancer fighting properties.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S001429991830181X?via%3Dihub

It has antifungal properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21834226

The polygonum species are all high in antioxidants.

http://www.ptfarm.pl/pub/File/Acta_Poloniae/2002/2/145.pdf

They inhibit xanthine oxidase which would prevent excess reactive oxygen species.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25510560

Joe Pye

This is for educational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt don’t, make sure you know a plant before you use it. The poison is in the dose. Many plants we eat contain things that could be poisonous if eaten in large amounts but are beneficial when consumed in moderation.

The one I am referring to is Eutrochium Maculatum. They all pretty much have the same phytochemicals. Joe Pye also known as gravel root has a wide variety of health benefits. It fights many pathogens including fungal infection. When I first made a tea of it and was still beginning treatment for my Lyme I herxed bad. It is very potent as an antibiotic. It reduces inflammation and fights cancer. Some species of gravel root contain alkaloids that can damage the liver if taken for too long or in to high amounts.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/joe-pye-weed.aspx

http://thenatpath.com/williamson/herb-of-the-day-joe-pye-weed/

https://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_gravelroot.htm

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/cbdv.201400227

Joe Pye is a beta blocker.

https://www.thieme-connect.com/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-2006-957558

Fleabane

Erigeron Annuus and Erigeron Philadelphica

I have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

Known as daisy fleabane. They look very similar and have the same taste and health benefits. They are difficult to tell apart and I often confuse them. So I am not sure which I have picutures of but I like the peppery taste. The older they get the hotter they get. The flowers and roots are very hot almost as hot as a habenaro but the burning does not last as long. It taste like for hot black pepper. The younger the plant the milder it is. Many claim you should not eat the roots.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/daisy-fleabane.aspx

Has been shown to be effective against cancer and fungal infection.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21319704

Reduces inflammation

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3595701/

Phytochemicals in fleabane.

http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/14/7/2458

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/cpb/51/7/51_7_894/_article

Has neuroprotective properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3145603/

Helps prevent aging by inhibiting AGEs.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs12272-001-1244-z

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/33/2/33_2_329/_article

Prevents damage from oxidative stress.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19557877

Contain pyromeconic acid which is very effective against the flu virus.

https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bbb1992/59/5/59_5_886/_article

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b00628

Ground Cherries

Physalis heterophyllas

I am have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

Most know them as ground cherries here in Pennsylvania. I have seen the amish plant these among their corn plants. They grow wild in many areas of the U.S. All parts of the plant are toxic except the berries when ripe. The berries are ripe when they turn yellow. They have a slight tart taste, I add them to salsa. If you have eaten a tomatilla then you will know what these taste like because the taste is pretty much the same but the tomatilla is much bigger. Some make pies and jelly from them. I eat them but have not gotten enough to make anything from them. The chipmunks eat them before I can pick them. Many say they taste best if you wait until they drop off the plant. I noticed no difference in taste from ones ripe on the plant and ones that have fallen from the plant.

Though the links are to different varieties of physalis the nutrient and chemical makeup of most of them are pretty much the same so just about any variety of them would have the benefits mentioned in these studies.

https://healthiersteps.com/all-about-ground-cherries/

How To Grow and Use Ground Cherries (With Recipe)

 

Reduces colitis.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26221001

Fights cancer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871299/

Most all of them even tomatillas contain withanolides. Which fight cancer and inflammation.

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/np400953n

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4177291/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5481415/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3762585/

Helps protect the liver.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691514004141?via%3Dihub

Often times in chronic illness glutathione production is inhibited and quinone levels can become very high. Physalis group of plants have phytochemicals that can increase glutathione and the enzyme needed to reduce quinone.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4883085/

Figwort

Scrophularia Marilandica

I  have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

It is claimed to have many benefits though I only had tea made from the leaves a few times so I would not know any long term effects. People around here in Pennsylvania have referred to it as New York Figwort though I have not seen it referred to as that anywhere else.

https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/scrophularia.html

The Scrophularia family does contain unique anti inflammatory qualities.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11306-017-1272-1

Figwort contains harpogaside which is also found in devils claw. It has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation.

http://www.raysahelian.com/devilsclaw.html

Harpogaside has been shown to reduce LDL levels.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26049170

Harpogaside has been shown to reduce osteoperosis.

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00233

It has been shown to reduce amyloid-B plaque build up which causes alzheimers.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26135675

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22192054

How harpogaside reduces inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26979254

Evening Primrose

 

 

Oenothera Biennis

I  have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

There are many health benefits to Evening Primrose. I found making a tea with the roots really helped in healing my gut. The roots are very high in mucilage. I found all parts of the plant to taste almost identical to ginger and even seem to have the same effects at reducing nausea from my herxing. I make teas from just about all parts of the plant and once in a while put the leaves in my salads.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/evening-primrose.aspx

https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-evening-primrose.html

Evening Primrose is very good at reducing inflammation.

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf304002h

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874112001420?via%3Dihub

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22819447

Has been shown to have cancer fighting qualities.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24491902

https://www.cancerletters.info/article/S0304-3835(04)00894-8/fulltext

Has been shown to reduce symptoms of menopause.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00404-013-2852-6

Canadian Thistle

 

Cirsium Arvense

I  have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

Canadian Thistle has many benefits but is very invasive. I grow it but I keep it isolated and I cut the tops off before the seeds can spread. It is very very difficult to control if you let it go to seed. It can spread through seeds they are similar to dandelion and how they are dispersed. They also can spread through their roots which are very aggressive.

The leaves are edible but you must make sure you get the pricklys off. The roots are edible but if you eat too many they will make you gassy. It helped me a lot with my fight with Lyme. I do enjoy the taste but it is a lot of work getting the jaggy parts off the leaves. The roots have a lot of health benefits also. I like peeling the leaves downward. That removes many of the prickles from the stalk of the young plants, then I light crape it with a knife. Then I eat the stalk, it is a very good tasting vegetable. Has a very sweet taste and is very juicy.

Thistle: It’s That Spine of Year

 

https://plants.jstor.org/compilation/Cirsium.arvense

Canadian Thistle has great antiviral and antifungal properties.

http://www.medjchem.com/images/stories/PDFV1NO2/mjcirchad2.pdf

http://ojs.medjbio.com/index.php/medjchem/article/view/131

Canadian Thistle is a good source of antioxidants.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jfbc.12299

http://www.acgpubs.org/RNP/2018/Volume12/Issue%201/27-RNP-EO_1706-043.pdf

Boneset

 

Eupatorium Perfoliatum

I  have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

There are many varieties of Boneset but this is the one I am familiar with. Eupatorium Perfoliatum is the one that is most common in my area. It is great for fighting the cold and flu. It dramatically reduces the duration of both. It has also been shown to fight cancer. I have used it when I have gotten ill and could not believe how fast it worked the results were surprising.

Boneset has many amazing properties but can be toxic so should only be used when very ill and not for extended periods of times. Also something to keep in mind. The dose makes the poison. If you drink too much water you will flush your electrolytes out and can cause a heart attack. So even though many plants contain alkaloids that can harm the body in high doses or if taken in for extended periods of time they can harm the body. Borage is one such food that contains an alkaloid that can build up in the body and harm it.

http://www.herbaltransitions.com/materiamedica/Eupatorp.htm

Some claim drying the herb destroys the toxic alkaloid.

http://www.rjwhelan.co.nz/herbs%20A-Z/boneset.html

Now to show the benefits if used in moderation.

http://klemow.wilkes.edu/Eupatorium.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5323186/

It reduces inflammation and will lower cholesterol.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4945065/

Has great antiviral properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24078828

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874116302793?via%3Dihub

It has even been shown to be effective against protozoa infection.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031942211000525

Speedwell

 

Veronica Officinalis

I  have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

Speedwell, common gypsy weed also referred to as Europe Tea.

Has been used for centuries as food, tea and medicinal purposes. There are hundreds of species but the only one I am familiar with is Veronica Officinalis.

https://plantsam.com/veronica-officinalis/

https://altnature.com/gallery/speedwell-herbal-uses.htm

Speedwell has been shown to help with gastric ulcers.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0378874185900030?via%3Dihub

Veronica species have antibiotic properties and great antioxidant properties.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4613244/

Veronica Officinalis has great anti-inflammatory properties.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874112007362?via%3Dihub

Teasel

Dipsacus Fullonum

I  have written this for educational purposes. If in doubt don’t, make certain you know your plants. This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such.

It is considered invasive in the US but I have not had a problem with it spreading because the deer and ground hogs love it. As a matter of fact because of that I have a difficult time getting it to grow. It is very high in nutrition, I love the taste of the leaves. First year roots are very tasty but second year roots are bitter and tough.

Teasel is amazing it helps with everything, tick born illness, cancer, osteoporosis. The list goes on and on. It really helped with my Lyme Disease. It is great at reducing inflammation. It helps with amyloidosis which can be caused by vaccine injury especially vaccines that contain aluminum. Glyphosate and other farm chemicals can cause it. Also infection can cause amyloid cyst to form. This is a list of the phytochemicals in teasels and what they do.

https://www.weiterbildung.uzh.ch/dam/jcr:a905e374-eab0-414c-be1d-e1fc63c7e5cc/Schlussarbeit.%20James%20Pollard.%20Final%20Copy.pdf

https://www.naturalmedicinefacts.info/plant/dipsacus-fullonum.html

This is one of the best sites for learning to identify plants and learn their uses.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/teasel.aspx

Uses of teasel.

https://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_teasel.htm

Solomons Seal

 

IMG_20180512_143620

IMG_20180512_143625

Solomons Seal

Polygonadum Biflorum

Mildly poisonous. Roots were eaten for food. Young shoots were eaten after boiling for ten minutes. I have never eaten it. Eating this plant raw has been known to give a person severe diarrhea.

http://www.discoverlife.org/mp/20q?search=Polygonatum+biflorum

False Solomons seal also has an edible root. I am cautious with plants that have toxic upper parts . Many eat the plants before the leaves open which reduces the toxin levels but if you are dehydrated and starving I cannot see where eating a plant that could give you diarrhea would be of benefit. Diarrhea would deprive you of nutrients and dehydrate you even more. That being said there are people that eat the roots of both plants.

http://the3foragers.blogspot.com/2010/05/solomons-seal-false-solomons-seal.html

Deep Fried Dandelions.

Dandelion

Dandelions Are Good Food.

   Since the GMO producers have been destroying our food supply and also because of GMOs destroying the insects that pollinate our food supply,  I decided to show people alternative food sources.  One of them is the dandelion, it can be tasty and have many health benefits. Don’t forget this is some of the bees first food so save some for them.

Dandelion is one of the few things that can detox glyphosate and glufonisate.

Click to access Gress-et-al.Dig1-BMC_2016.pdf

Dandelion is listed among the plants that help with obesity, high LDL, inflammation and even cancer.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4746997/

Dandelion has too many benefits to list. It is a superfood.

http://www.healingcancernaturally.com/dandelion-taraxacum-research-3.html

I like mine deep fried but there are many ways to use them. They can be used as greens in salads, on sandwiches, in salads, or cook them with other greens. They can be bitter so don’t over do it. They are best picked before the flowers come on. I try to pick lighter green leaves because they seem to taste better. They can be bitter but in moderation they add a nice bite to a meal. Dandelions have been shown to protect the renal systems. They are very nutritious but they are a diuretic like coffee and tea, so you should drink more water when you consume anything from the dandelions.  There is a saying if in doubt don’t, if you are not sure of what the plant is do not eat it.

This is a very good site in learning to identify plants and how to use them.

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/dandelion.aspx

My Favorite Deep Fried Dandelions Flowers.

  This is my favorite of all ways to prepare dandelions. The flavor is like a cross between artichoke heart and zucchini.

After you pick the dandelion flowers try to remove as much green as possible to remove some of the bitterness. Their is a ring around the flower with little leaflet like things on it. I try to remove them. Be careful if you remove too much green the dandelion will fall apart.

DandelionunprepDandelionprepped

Some people do not wash theirs but I prefer to wash mine because I have seen slugs on them and they carry some pretty dangerous diseases. After I wash them I set them on a plate that has paper towels so that they can dry.

Dandelion drying

   After they have dried a few minutes I dip them in a mix of egg and just a tiny bit of milk. For the breading I use a fifty fifty mix of Italian style bread crumbs and and all purpose flower.

EggmixFlowermix

   After I cover them with the breading I let them set a minute or two because it seems to make the breading stick better.

20150505_151403

 When you are frying them keep a very close eye on them because they cook very quickly. You will have to turn them once one side has been cooked.  Eat and enjoy.

 

Fried dandelion