Urban Foraging for Wild Souls

Many people have no idea just what kind of abundance exists right in their back yards. Urban foraging is a fun and easy way to learn about local ecosystems, beneficial and medicinal plant species, and for teaching children about the importance of our natural world. As our country - and world - become more urbanized, we have to actively search for little pockets of nature where ever we can.

I don't know about you, but I have this unrelenting need to get outside and feel the sun on my skin and wind in my hair as a way to ground myself and get away from the hustle and bustle of corporate servitude. I have always had a draw to nature, forests, and mountains. As John Denver said so eloquently, "country roads take me home."

Did you know that many medicinal plant species are actually considered weeds? Basal rosette plants like mullein, dandelion, and thistle are all considered invasive weeds by most homeowners, however, these plants contain powerful nutrients and have many uses in herbal and folk medicine. Dandelion leaves and flowers can be used in salads and eaten raw and are considered a great source of vitamins A, C, E and K. Dandelion greens also contain vital minerals like iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Dandelion root is known for its ability to aid in digestion, thanks to the carbohydrate inulin, which is a soluble fiber that supports the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Mullein has been used for centuries as a treatment for respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and bronchitis. This plant has anti-inflammatory properties which helps relax the muscles in your respiratory tract making breathing easier. The mullein leaves and flowers are used in many different types of medicine but are especially known for its use in conjunction with garlic - another highly medicinal plant - in oil to treat ear infections in adults and children due to the antibacterial and analgesic properties.

I know this probably sounds like I am speaking a foreign language to a lot of people, but it is my hope that my writings can become a source of education, especially for those who are interested in plant medicine but aren't sure where to start.

If you are interested in urban foraging, I suggest you start by looking right in your backyard. Where I am in Northern Vermont, we are in the beginning stages of Spring which always brings plenty of early perennials for eating or medicine making. Dandelions often get killed off with herbicides or mowed over, when they could really be harvested and used as food. My favorites at this time of year are Fiddlehead Ferns (Ostrich fern or Matteuccia Struthiopteris), Ramps (Allium Tricoccum), Morel mushrooms (Morchella), and the 'weeds' mentioned above. If any of these plants sound interesting to you, start researching! I have many books on foraging, identifying native plants, knowing the difference between deadly lookalikes, and even getting kids interested in it too. Anyone can do it, it just takes time and know-how.

Disclaimer: The advice given in this post is not intended to constitute medical advice or override information provided by a licensed physician. The information provided here is anecdotal and based on personal experience and research. Please do your own research before foraging or picking any plants and please practice sustainable harvesting. Native plants like ramps and fiddleheads are becoming endangered due to unsustainable harvesting practices. We want to continue foraging and teaching our children these ancient practices so lets save some for the forests too! (:

Thank you and happy camping!

Jennifer