Survival Food Series #4 : Eat the Weed(s), Flowers and Roots! What You Can Eat From Your Own Backyard!
Plantain Plant #4 (not to be confused with the member of the banana family)
This magnificent plants scientific name is plantago major and has been used in herbal medicine by the Chinese for centuries. The plantain burst forth in spring and subside in winter in all climates and are found all over the world.
The plantain leaves and roots bring a distinct flavor to salads and offer, as all greens, wonderful chlorophyll and is particularly high in potassium. The seeds are contained in the middle on a stem that shoots daintily from the center of the plant and can be used as a thickener in cooking gravies and stews.
The plantain is one to keep in the forefront of your mind for first aid as well as it acts as a demulcent by drawing out toxins from wasp and other insect bites, is a hemostatic agent to stop bleeding and contains astringent and antiseptic action as well. Another great plant for the outdoorsman or survivalist!
Photo credit: University of Florida http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_handbooks
Disclaimer: As with all edibles, you want to collect away from roadsides that might be covered in heavy metals or other contaminates.
This is not intended to be medical or expert advice. Readers of this article and harvesters of all plants takes full responsibility for use of any plant and should use appropriate precautions in identification of any plant before ingesting.
If you enjoyed this information and find it valuable please upvote and consider following. More articles about living abundantly coming daily. :)
Love and Peace,
Melissa
Other articles in this series on edibles: