Sometimes I wonder if those in charge have ever gotten the chance to see the harm they caused by the support or endorsement of certain things. The history of Kudzu in the United States may be one of those times where those in charge couldn’t see the problems in their lifetime, but those who came after might wish their predecessors had never even heard of the plant. Kudzu was first introduced to North America in 1876 in the Japanese pavilion at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. But the most notable promotion of kudzu came in 1884 in the Japanese pavilion at the New Orleans Exposition which led to Kudzu being heavily promoted in the early-1900s. At the time, farmers were having an issue with soil erosion and Kudzu was known to help protect the soil from erosion as well as improve the quality of the soil it grew in. So, the government decided to pay farmers to use the vine for erosion control, which led to an estimated more than a million acres of the vine being planted. The problem of its aggressiveness wasn’t addressed until WELL after the Great Depression, when thousands of acres of kudzu were planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps for hillside stabilization projects.

     Often demonized as “the vine that ate the South,” Kudzu is one plant that has many uses and benefits. It’s also a great example of why invasive plants aren’t always that bad. Before you jump on my case about ecology and the harm invasives do to natural habitat, etc. I am very aware of the harm this plant can do. Kudzu can easily outcompete native species, and if it ever gets access to a tree canopy, it can devastate habitats by felling trees and eliminating light availability. Though Kudzu may be a famous invasive species it is not, by any means, the most aggressive or dangerous invasive in the South. That is likely the Chinese Privet. Even with Kudzu’s aggressive nature leading to doing some severe habitat damage, it also has some benefits to offer for that same habitat. This fast-growing vine helps to remove petroleum contamination and other toxins, like chromium, from the environment. It also has a preference for land that has been harmed by monocropping, and other places where the ecosystem has been weakened. When it moves into these areas, it helps to replenish, protect, and add biomass to these severely depleted soils. I am, by no means, suggesting that you should go out and plant Kudzu. Ever. But I also don’t believe it to be as terrifying as it’s made out to be. 

     While this woody vine has become famous for eating the South, it in turn can be eaten. Kudzu is a food crop in its native country of Japan. But here in the US, it’s virtually unused. Some people find this plant to be bitter, oddly textured, and not worth the effort to process. I personally think that if you take the time to learn how it should be prepared, and do it right, it’s a tasty vegetable. So if you’re curious and want to give it a shot, go for it. Kudzu leaves can be eaten as a green. Some people will even eat the smaller, more tender leaves in a salad. However, the leaves have a bit of a toothy, fibrous, quality that doesn’t make for the best salads. I think the leaves are much better cut up into small chunks and cooked as a pot herb. If you’re from the South, that’s what we do to greens of all kinds here. The leaves also work well in place of grape leaves for Dolmades. Just parboil the Kudzu leaves first to make sure they’re tender enough for rolling. The hairy tips of the vines are also edible and can be eaten raw. But the hairy texture can be a bit off putting that way. Instead, try sautéing or grilling them. The heat should diminish the hairiness, though if it’s still an issue for you, you can always peel the hairy bit off before cooking. That extra step does take a bit of effort though. The flowers are also edible and hold up to cooking fairly well. They make an excellent and slightly grapey jam or jelly. If you’re a beekeeper, they also make for some excellent honey. Just make sure you stay on top of your Kudzu population as it can easily overtake your hives. The most well-known part of this plant in the kitchen is the root. The root is not edible raw and is extremely woody, so it takes some processing to make it digestible. However, it is used as a starchy vegetable in a few Chinese and Japanese dishes. The roots also contain a lot of starch which can be extracted and used to thicken soups or sauces, used to make jelly or gelatin-like desserts, noodles, and much more. The process of extraction does take quite a lot of effort, but you can also find it in some grocery stores so you can skip all that hard work and just see for yourself if it’s worth it. 

     Kudzu is also a great herb to have on your medicine shelf. It’s a great source of minerals, such as iron, sodium, calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, and manganese as well as containing isoflavones, which act like estrogen in the body. For this reason, it’s often used to treat menopause symptoms and can be a great feminine herb, especially since studies also suggest that these isoflavones may be able to prevent and help treat breast cancer and uterine cancer. Kudzu is also popular for drinking issues. This herb can treat alcoholism and relieve hangover symptoms, such as headaches, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. It’s believed that kudzu can combat drinking addictions by increasing blood flow and making drinkers feel the alcohol effects sooner. This way, drinkers are more likely to drink less and stop drinking earlier. Speaking of increasing blood flow, Kudzu is also a powerful cardiac herb. It helps to increase blood circulation and reduce high blood pressure which then lowers chances of stroke, angina, and even heart attacks. Additionally, kudzu is also used to treat other ailments, such as cold, fever, flu, hay fever, sinus infection, migraine, upset stomach, diarrhea, dysentery, muscle pain, and neck stiffness. It can also treat skin problems, such as itchiness, rash, and psoriasis. Kudzu can also help control blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. There are just so many uses for this amazing herb. And bonus points for it being invasive so we don’t have to worry about over-harvesting!

     Speaking of harvesting, let’s cover some basic foraging rules and some cautions when foraging for Kudzu specifically. First and foremost, be careful. You should always be careful when harvesting wild plants. Do your research and determine if the area is regularly treated with pesticides or herbicides. Speaking of chemicals, it’s always a good idea to make sure you’re at least 100 yards away from roads and places where vehicles or equipment are stored. Many wild plants readily absorb toxins from the soil and when you cook them, you can easily ingest these chemicals. You should also make sure to truly study how to identify the plant you’re foraging. There are a lot of look-a-likes out there that can be harmful. If you’re not 100% sure of a plant’s ID, don’t consume it!  In the case of Kudzu, its leaves could be confused with poison ivy leaves (leaves of 3 leave ‘em be). The easiest way to differentiate both plants is to remember that kudzu is a vine that grows outwards in every direction, while poison ivy is a ground vine that grows vertically to the sky. Kudzu is a climbing, semi-woody, vine that can reach up to 100 feet in length and grows about a foot a day. The stems can reach a diameter of up to 4 inches and some old ‘stumps’ can be nearly 12 inches across. The leaves are alternate and compound, with three broad leaflets up to 4 inches across. Leaflets may be entire or deeply 2-3 lobed and slightly hairy on the margin or underneath. If you’re still not sure, mark the area and come back when the Kudzu should be blooming (late summer to early fall). Kudzu flowers grow in long clusters with the individual flowers growing up to ½ inch long. The purple to pinkish-red flowers smell like artificial grape candy or grape soda. 

 

Herb Profile:

Scientific Name- Pueraria montana var. lobata

Common Names- Kudzu, Kudzu Vine, The Vine that Ate the South, Mile-a-Minute Vine

Family- Fabaceae (the legume or pea family)

Identification- Semi-woody vine with alternating leaves made of three oval-shaped or lobed leaflets. Young vines and vine tips are hairy. After 3 years it produces purple or red flowers that bloom in clusters and smell like grape candy. The vine grows up to a foot per day and can reach up to 100 ft in length. It flowers in late summer, the seeds pods are brown, hairy, and flattened. These pods contain three to ten seeds.

Summary of Actions- Cardiovascular protective, antiplatlet, antihypertensive, antipyretic, andtidiabetic, antispasmodic, anti-alcoholic, anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral.

Energetics & Flavors- TCM- Sweet, acrid or pungent, and cool.

Parts Used- Whole plant, root, leaf, and flower.

Active Constituents- Arachidic acid, ash, B-sitosterol, calcium, carotene, daidzein, daidzin, eicosanoic acid, formononetin, genistein, hexadecenoic acid, irisolidon, iron, magnesium, p-coumaric acid, phosphorus, potassium, puerarin, quercetin, riboflavin, robinin, silica, tectoridin, tetracosanoid acid.

Edibility- Kudzu leaves, vine tips, flowers, and roots can be eaten. The root should be cooked, the rest is edible raw or cooked. Kudzu vines, seeds, and seed pods are NOT edible. While many people consider this plant to be tasty, many other people consider it to be bitter, fibrous, hairy, and not worth the effort. Starch can be extracted from the roots and used to thicken soups or sauces, used to make jelly or gelatin-like desserts, noodles, and much more.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Ge gen (Radix puerariae); sweet, acrid or pungent, cool; associated with the spleen and stomach. Sometimes it is also associated with the lungs and bladder. This herb is used in TCM to dispel wind, release muscles, and clear heat. It nourishes fluids and alleviates thirst. It helps to vent or erupt measles and stop diarrhea. Other traditional TCM uses include hypertension and alcoholism. The flowers are used for drunkenness and as a hangover remedy.

Ayurveda- Vidaari Kanda (Pueraria tuberosa). Similar uses as in TCM. 

Recommended Dosage- High to medium dose. Considered safe when consumed as a food.
Decoction: Root 10-20 grams daily with a maximum of 60 grams. Flower 3-12 grams for hangovers and excessive alcohol intake.

When to Harvest- The best time to harvest the shoots is in spring. The young leaves can be harvested anytime. The plant blooms in the late summer and early fall so you should be able to harvest the blossoms July through October. For the roots, the best time to harvest is in fall or early spring but you can dig them up year-round for use.

Other Uses- Kudzu can be used to make soaps, lotions, rope, twine, baskets, wallpaper, paper, fuel, and compost. It can also be baled like hay and used to feed livestock, though it seems goats like it more than other livestock. 

Cautions and Contraindications- Kudzu is very safe though it can cause nausea and vomiting when taken at too high of a dose, particularly in individuals with weak digestion.

Herb and Drug Interactions- There may be synergistic effects with insulin and other antidiabetic medications. Kudzu also has antiplatelet effects which could cause synergistic interactions with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. As always, check with your doctor and pharmacist before starting any herbal supplements.

 

  

     

I only included a basic introduction to this interesting herb. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

Books:

• Invasive Plant Medicine by Timothy Lee Scott

Videos:

• Eating kudzu, the vine that ate the South | Sci NC

• EatTheWeeds: Episode 73: Kudzu

• How to make kudzu root powder| Summer Kitchen VOL.394

• What Kudzu is and *IS NOT* good for 

Scientific Articles:

• A comprehensive review on Pueraria: Insights on its chemistry and medicinal value

• Effects of Puerarin on the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases

• Pharmacokinetics and drug delivery systems for puerarin, a bioactive flavone from traditional Chinese medicine

• Pueraria lobata root polysaccharide alleviates glucose and lipid metabolic dysfunction in diabetic db/db mice

• Pueraria montana (Kudzu vine) Ameliorate the Inflammation and Oxidative Stress against Fe-NTA Induced Renal Cancer

• Pueraria tuberosa: A Review on Traditional Uses, Pharmacology, and Phytochemistry

• Roles and mechanisms of puerarin on cardiovascular disease：A review

Other Articles:

• Did You Know You Can Eat Kudzu?

• Ge Gen (Radix Puerariae)

• Kudzu

• Kudzu

• Kudzu, an Invasive Weed with Hidden Virtues

• Kudzu Quickie

• Kudzu Recipes

• Kudzu Root: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

• Radix puerariae

• Treating Diabetes Mellitus with Radix Puerariae: Is There Evidence?

• What is kudzu?

Fenugreek

      It’s that time of year where I delve into the mysterious, the magical, the dark, and the spooky. Today I want to talk mummies. 

 

     In ancient Egypt, it was very important to preserve the bodies of their dead as true to life as possible. So they developed a specific method of embalming that removed all the moisture from the body leaving the dried body in a state where it was very difficult to decay. This process is called mummification and mummies have captivated our minds for centuries, holding a special place of wonder, mystery, and even a bit of horror. While most of the techniques are not completely known, even today, we do know a few things about how the Egyptians were able to perform this amazing task. One of the key ingredients is an herb that is used today for many health benefits. 

 

     Fenugreek, or Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a member of the Fabaceae family and is indigenous to the countries to the east of the Mediterranean. Today it’s cultivated in India, Africa, Egypt, Morocco, and even occasionally in England. The scientific name is from ancient Greek. Trigonella means ‘three-angled’ which refers to the shape of the plant’s corolla and foenum-graecum means ‘Greek hay’ which is a reference to its use to scent poor quality hay and to fortify cattle feed. This plant is used in traditional foods and medicines all over the East and the Middle East and modern archaeologists believe it was used as a spice as early as 4000 BCE, when remains of this herb were discovered in Tell Halal, Iraq. 

 

     Fenugreek is an erect, smooth, herbaceous plant that can grow up to a height of about 15-32 inches. It has a taproot and its stems are erect, up to 20 inches high, sometimes branched. The leaves are alternate, compound, trifoliate, 2-5 inches long, light green in color. The leaflets are oval, up to 2 inches long, hairy on their lower sides. The flowers are papilionaceous, borne in leaf axils, white, lemon-yellow, or purplish-blue in color. The fruits occur as straight or sickle-like pods of ½ inch to 4 inches, long, thin and pointed, and contain 10-20 seeds. The seeds are 6-8 mm long, oblong or square, green-olive or brownish in color, with a very strong and spicy odor, reminiscent of maple syrup. Fenugreek is naturally found in field verges, uncultivated ground, dry grasslands, and hillsides in semi-highland and highland regions. It grows on a wide range of preferably well-drained soils with a pH ranging from 5.3 to 8.2. Fenugreek does not do well in wet soil.

 

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Trigonella foenum-graecum

Common Names- Fenugreek, Methi, Bird's Foot, Greek Hayseed, Greek Clover, Helba, Bird’s Foot, Bockshornklee

Family- Fabaceae

Summary of Actions- Galactogogue, demulcent, antiatherosclerosis, astringent, carminative, laxative, antispasmodic, emollient (vulnerary), febrifuge (mild), appetite stimulant (though some find it to be appetite suppressing), hypocholesterolemic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, oxytocic, diuretic, cardiotonic, diuretic, hypoglycemic, antiviral, and antihypertensive.

Energetics & Flavors- Dry and warm. 

Parts Used- Seeds & Sprouts. Though some traditions make use of the leaves as well.

Active Constituents- Volatile oils, alkaloids (trigonelline, genitanine, carpaine), saponins (fenugreekine, diosgenin, tigogenin, gitogenin, trigogenin, etc.), flavonoids, mucilage

Edibility & Nutrition- Many parts of the world consider every part of this herb to be edible. In India, the leaves are often cooked as a potherb. In Ethiopia and Egypt, the seeds are used to bake bread while in Switzer-land fenugreek is used to flavor cheese. In Cairo, the seeds are traditionally sprouted and consumed raw or soaked in water and crushed into a thick paste. The ground seed has often been used to give a maple flavor to traditional confections. This powder is also one of the ingredients in traditional curry seasoning. Some of the nutrients present in this herb include protein, fats, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, vitamins A, C, & K, as well as fiber. Fenugreek’s flavor combines well with other spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, fennel, and dried ginger.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- This common herb, known as Hu lu ba in TCM, is considered to be a yang tonic and is especially important for treating kidney yang deficiency. This is why it’s often used to treat kidney issues as well as reproductive ones as, in TCM, the kidneys are seen as the rulers of the reproductive system. It is considered to be bitter, sweet, and pungent in flavor as well as heating or warming in nature. This lends it well for use to dispel dampness and cold and to warm the kidneys. In addition to the kidneys, its other main effects are on the lung and large intestine meridians. It’s known to circulate Qi, disperse cold, clear damp, and resolve water accumulation along these meridians. Ancient Chinese medical texts cite that it enders the Lung, Spleen, Kidney, and Liver.

Ayurvedic- Known as Chandrika or Medhika, this is considered to be a highly effective herb when it comes to imbalances of vata and kapha by pacifying both kapha, and vata (though this is done in smaller quantities), but it also increases pitta . It’s warming and has bitter, pungent, and sweet tastes as well as having a nourishing and humble quality, which creates a strong grounding effect in the body. It’s also known to break up stuck energies in the body helping to reduce inflammation. It’s often used to enhance digestion and prevent stomach disorders. It is also good for the skin and hair. As in Western medicine, the seeds are used both whole and ground. It is thought that the best way to use this herb is to sauté whole or ground fenugreek in ghee before adding it to dishes.

Cardiovascular System- Fenugreek helps to balance cholesterol in the body, lowering the “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and improving the balance between that and the “good” cholesterol (HDL). This is likely thanks to a flavonoid called naringenin. It does have some effect on triglycerides, but more research needs to be done to confirm any benefits. The research does show that people who consume raw fenugreek seeds or powder tend to have low cholesterol and healthier hearts in general.

Gastrointestinal- Fenugreek is traditionally used for a large number of stomach complaints. It helps prevent constipation as well as digestive issues created by stomach ulcers. It’s also a great herb for treating gastritis and indigestion. It’s a natural digestive tonic and the mucilage provides lubricating benefits to help soothe the stomach and intestines by providing a soothing, demulcent coating over the lining of the digestive tract. It’s often used to support a weakened or inflamed digestive system. 

Diabetes- One of its most well-studied properties includes its ability to improve blood sugar. Fenugreek helps to slow the absorption of sugars in the stomach and boosts the production of insulin. This makes it a great ally, not only in the case of diabetes but for all metabolic and cardiometabolic issues.  

Skin & Hair Health- Fenugreek helps to promote hair growth and prevent dandruff. Its anti-microbial properties help to treat several scalp and hair infections and it helps to nourish the hair follicles, improve blood circulation, and strengthen the hair from the roots. It’s also extremely effective in healing wounds. It’s packed with vitamin C and antioxidants which help treat oxidative free radical damage done by the sun, this means it’s great for reducing the signs of aging. It also reduces acne and makes the skin glow with its natural oils that help to moisturize the skin.

Milk Production- For centuries, fenugreek has been valued for its properties as a galactagogue. It can increase milk supply in a women’s body and can substantially increase milk production in as little as 24 hours. This makes it a great herb for breastfeeding women who are experiencing a low milk supply. However, this should not be taken until the baby is born as it's overly stimulating for pregnancy.

Male Reproductive System- Powder, made from the seeds, is often indicated for men’s health in general, but especially for their reproductive systems. This powder is a natural antioxidant and helps to improve the production of male hormones such as testosterone and luteinizing hormone. It also has powerful spermatogenic properties that are beneficial for treating conditions such as hypospermia, oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, and it enhances spermatogenesis. It has also been known to treat erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and improve sexual function and libido overall. 

Other Uses- Many ancient cultures would add fenugreek to their livestock’s feed to improve the nutrient quality and hide the smell of bad hay. The ancient Egyptians used this herb for mummification as well as for incense. It was also mixed with boiling oil during the first Jewish-Roman war. This mixture was used to repel invaders. 

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Do not use when pregnant. This herb lowers blood glucose so carefully monitor glucose levels when using this herb. It can also interact with several medications so talk to your doctor before taking this herb. 

 

    

     I only included a basic introduction to this ancient mummification herb. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

8 Fabulous Benefits of Fenugreek: Banyan Botanicals: https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/blog-the-banyan-insight/details/8-fabulous-benefits-of-fenugreek/ 

A small plant with big benefits: Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn.) for disease prevention and health promotion: Molecular Nutrition & Food Research: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mnfr.201600950 

A randomized controlled clinical trial evaluating the effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) versus glibenclamide in patients with diabetes: African Health Sciences: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6531936/ 

A Review on Ethnobotanical and Therapeutic Uses of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum L): 

Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2156587215583405 

Amazing Benefits of Fenugreek: Ayurveda Knowledge Center: https://maharishiayurvedaindia.com/blogs/ayurveda-knowledge-center/amazing-benefits-of-fenugreek 

Antidiabetic Effect of Fenugreek Seed Powder Solution ( Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on Hyperlipidemia in Diabetic Patients: Journal of Diabetes Research: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6748210/ 

Fenugreek: A Modern Herbal: https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/f/fenugr07.html 

Fenugreek: Gaia Herbs: https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/herbs/fenugreek 

Fenugreek: Mapi: https://mapi.com/blogs/articles/fenugreek 

Fenugreek: My Spicer: https://www.myspicer.com/history-of-fenugreek/#:~:text=Fenugreek%20was%20considered%20to%20be,it%20as%20a%20soothing%20herb. 

Fenugreek: Natural Medicines Database: https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=733 

Fenugreek: Richard Whelan Medical Herbalist: https://www.rjwhelan.co.nz/herbs%20A-Z/fenugreek.html 

Fenugreek A multipurpose crop- Potentialities and improvements: Saudi journal of biological sciences: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4894452/ 

Fenugreek (Hu lu ba): Acupuncture Today: https://www.acupuncturetoday.com/herbcentral/fenugreek.php 

Fenugreek- The Ancient Spice of Mummification: IB HQ: https://www.ibhqsingapore.com/post/fenugreek-the-ancient-spice-of-mummification

Fenugreek Powder: 5 Astonishing Benefits Of This Traditional Spice: Netmeds: https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/fenugreek-powder-5-astonishing-benefits-of-this-traditional-spice 

Fenugreek Seed: Mountain Rose Herbs: https://mountainroseherbs.com/fenugreek-seeds#:~:text=In%20TCM%20(traditional%20Chinese%20medicine,and%20to%20warm%20the%20kidneys. 

Fenugreek Seed in TCM: Chinese Nutrition: http://chinesenutrition.org/view_image.asp?pid=592 

Fenugreek Seeds: Me and Qi: https://www.meandqi.com/herb-database/fenugreek-seeds 

Fenugreek Seeds- How Ayurveda Uses Methi Dana in Easy Home Remedies: NDTV: https://food.ndtv.com/health/fenugreek-seeds-how-ayurveda-uses-methi-dana-in-easy-home-remedies-1738353 

Therapeutic Applications of Fenugreek: Alternative Medicine Review: https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA98540120&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=10895159&p=AONE&sw=w&userGroupName=anon%7E5eee3c74 

Trigonella foenum-graecum: The Naturopathic Herbalist: https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/2015/09/23/trigonella-foenum-graecum-2/ 

What are the uses and health benefits of fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-graecum)?: Planet Ayurveda: https://www.planetayurveda.com/library/fenugreek-trigonella-foenum-graecum/ 

Usnea

 

 

    

     One of my favorite things about my home state of Florida is its sheer natural diversity. We have wetlands, swamps, beaches, grasslands, hammocks, and scrubs. With all this diversity of habitat we also have a major diversity of plant, animal, and fungal life. Florida is home to over 4,700 species of plants and countless species of fungi. While I have barely dipped my toes in the ocean of the flora found in this state, I haven’t even breached the surface of the fungi pool. However, there are a few that stand out and I try to share those with people whenever I can.

     Lichens are technically a type of fungi. Though they are really symbiotic organisms made up of fun-gus living in a symbiotic relationship with an alga or cyanobacterium (or both in some instances). Fungi are not able to photosynthesize, so they cannot make their own food from the sun. However, algae and cyanobacteria do have the ability to photosynthesize. Forming symbiotic relationships can help these fungi, alga, and cyanobacterium survive and thrive in areas where they would otherwise be unable to. Worldwide, there are about 17,000 species of lichen and it’s currently estimated that about 8% of the earth’s surface is covered by these fascinating symbiotes. 

     Usnea is a genus of lichen that can be found all over the Northern Hemisphere. It likes to grow on trees such as pine, spruce, juniper, fir, and even some hardwoods such as oak, hickory, walnut, apple, and pear. Usnea prefers moist areas, like Florida, where there is high humidity or regular fog and/or rain. Its most commonly used common name is Old Man’s Beard. This comes from Usnea’s growing habit, similar to that of Spanish Moss, where it forms long, bushy strands that cascade from the tree limbs, reminiscent of a long beard. However, in Florida, this is not very evident as our species tend to stay much smaller.

     There are a few other species of lichen that can easily be confused with Usnea. Strap lichen (Rama-lina spp.) and oakmoss (Evernia spp.) are nontoxic lichens with flat, strap-like thalli (plant body) that could be confused with Usnea. The somewhat toxic wolf lichen (Letharia vulpina) can be confused with Usnea to the untrained eye. Wolf lichen, which grows in the Pacific Northwest, Northern Rockies, and Europe, is much brighter green in color and does not contain the inner filament that is the primary way I use to identify Usnea.

     The best way to identify Usnea is by taking a moistened strand and gently pulling it apart. If it is Usnea, you will see an inner white- or cream-colored strand that is somewhat elastic. This inner white strand is the fungus core, while the green outer covering is the alga. If the usnea is too dry, the inner strand may be hard to see. Also, the branches of the Usnea thallus (the pant body) are always round in a cross-section.

     If you plan on harvesting Usnea, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is that Usnea grows very slowly and can easily be over-harvested. The best way to ensure sustainable harvesting is by gathering this lichen from freshly fallen branches, either after a storm or in the regular shedding of branches in a forest. Another consideration is that Usnea is a natural air purifier and as such can absorb heavy metals. Make sure when you are harvesting to only harvest from areas low in air pollution.

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Usnea spp. most common species used include: U. barbata, U. californica, U. longissimi, and our local species U. florida. There are over 600 species of Usnea that grow across the world and many of these species are interchangeably used.

Common Names- Old Man’s Beard, Beard Lichen, Tree lichen, Tree Moss

 

Family- Parmeliacaea

Edibility- Edible, but not tasty. Can cause stomach upset if not properly prepared.

 

Summary of Actions- Antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiprotozoal, antiproliferative, antitumor, antiviral, antiseptic, analgesic, antipyretic, astringent, immuno-stimulating, immuno-regulator, demulcent, expectorant, febrifuge, styptic, tonic, vasodilator, vulnerary

Energetics & Flavors- Bitter, Cooling, and Drying

Constituents- Usnic acid, diffractaic acid, vitamin C, carotene, essential amino acids, fatty acids, mucilage, polysaccharides, anthraquinones

Parts Used- Whole lichen (dried thallus)

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Though it is rarely used, the first recorded use of Usnea in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dates to 101 B.C., when it was used as an antimicrobial agent under the Chinese name of Song Lo (also spelled Songluo). Song Lo tea or decoction for internal and external use has also been recorded for detoxification of the liver, treatment of malaria, wounds, snake bite, cough, and much more. Song Lo is primarily used for clearing heat, moving dampness, and releasing toxicity from the body.  It has an affinity for the kidneys, bladder, reproductive organs, mucous mem-branes, upper respiratory, tissues, and skin.

Antibacterial/Antifungal- Usnea is an amazing antibacterial herb and works best against gram-positive bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and other fast-growing species. As an antifungal and antiparasitic herb, it can also be used when candida overgrowth (yeast infections) or Trichomonas are a concern. Unlike pharmaceutical antibacterial medications, Usnea is not believed to negatively affect healthy gut bacteria.

 

Immune Stimulation- Usnea contains polysaccharides that are immuno-stimulatory and can be used for both local and systemic infections. Common infections it is used for include sinusitis, acute/chronic lung infections, and vaginal infections.

Wound Care- This lichen has traditionally been used as a compress for wounds. Not only does it help stop bleeding, but it also actively fights infections which will help prevent the wound from becoming infected. It also helps to speed healing and may even be beneficial for skin conditions such as acne.

  

Digestive Bitter- The bitter flavor of this lichen indicates that it can be used as a digestive bitter, helping to stimulate bile production and improve digestion as well as nutrient absorption and the breaking down of fats. 

  

Drawing Out Toxins- Usnea is an excellent drawing herb. Not the kind you use to make art, but the kind used to draw out toxins. It can also be used for bites, stings, and other similarly infected wounds.

Urinary Tract- This herb has many traditional uses in acute complaints of the kidney, bladder, and urinary tract. It’s also a great antifungal and antibacterial which helps to fight off many of the common urinary tract infections.

Respiratory- Usnea is a great herb for your lungs. It’s a tonic that helps support general lung health, but it also actively fights many upper respiratory infections and is especially effective for hot, irritable, wet coughs.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Some people are allergic, so always use caution when you are first encountering this herb. Usnea is generally considered safe, even for long-term use at an appropriate dosage. There were some reports of liver toxicity issues with a weight loss product, called “LipoKinetix,” in the early 2000s. This product contained usnic acid, however, the issues were most likely caused by the formulation which contained other questionable components in high amounts. Other toxicity issues from this product were likely due to overuse/abuse of the supplement (this was a “miracle” weight loss pill after all which is always questionable in the first place). Yet another case for whole herb use. 

 

 

 

    

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing lichen. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

Foraging for Usnea- A Super Medicinal Lichen: Grow, Forage, Cook, Ferment: https://www.growforagecookferment.com/foraging-for-usnea/ 

Herb of the month- Usnea: Groton Wellness: https://www.grotonwellness.com/herb-of-the-month-october/ 

Medicinal Benefits of Usnea: Herbal Living: https://herbs.motherearthliving.com/medicinal-benefits-of-usnea/ 

Respiratory Herbs- Usnea, Lungs of the Forest: Nitty Gritty Life: https://nittygrittylife.com/usnea-lungs-forest/ 

Review of Usnic Acid and Usnea Barbata Toxicity: PubMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5739313/ 

Safety Issues Affecting Herbs- Usnea, an herb used in Western and Chinese medicine: ITM Online: http://www.itmonline.org/arts/usnea.htm 

The Usnea Herb: Herbs with Rosalee: https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/usnea-herb.html 

Usnea: Gia Herbs: https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/herbs/usnea

Usnea: WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-694/usnea#:~:text=The%20plant%20body%20of%20usnea,throat%20and%20for%20athlete's%20foot.

Usnea, an immune-enhancing lichen: Corinna Wood: https://www.corinnawood.com/blog/usnea-lichen-immune-enhancing-medicinal-herb 

Usnea barbata: The Naturopathic Herbalist: https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/herbs/t-u/usnea-barbata/ 

What are Lichens?: Live Science: https://www.livescience.com/55008-lichens.html 

What to Know About Usnea, the Antibacterial Lichen That’s in Some Natural Deodorants: Well + Good: https://www.wellandgood.com/usnea-benefits/ 

American Sweetgum

    

     There are some plants out there that people either seem to love or hate. Today I want to introduce you to one of these. Sweetgum is one of my favorite trees. Yes, I am well acquainted with the seed balls that are like the forest equivalent of sand spurs, but I have fond memories of pelting my friends with them when I was very young. I also remember being very fond of a series of movies titled “The Land Before Time.” In these movies, a group of young dinosaurs travel together to find the Great Valley. Along the way, you discover that the favorite food of the herbivores of the group is the Tree Star. I’ve always thought that the leaves of the Sweetgum looked an awful lot like those leaves. Even to the point that my husband and I often refer to the Sweetgum as the Tree Star Tree.      

     

     Sweetgum, or Liquidambar styraciflua, is a species of tree native to the Southeastern portion of the United States. Its native range extends from Texas eastward to the coast and from as far north as Tennessee down to Central Florida. It’s also found in some of the forests of Mexico and Central America. This beautiful member of the Altingiaceae family is known for its striking fall foliage. It can reach heights of up to 100 ft (about 30.5 meters) and provides shelter and food for quite a wide variety of wildlife. The leaves are alternate, maple-like, and star-shaped. Typically they will have about 5 to 7 lobes and are 4 to 8 inches (10 - 20cm) long and wide with serrated margins. The dark to medium glossy green leaves change to a kaleidoscope of yellow, red, purple tones in the fall and have a camphor-like smell when they are crushed.

  

     One other reason for the hatred this lovely tree gets is that they’re impossible to get rid of. If you cut one down a bunch of suckers will pop up from the roots. If you cut those off, they’ll just re-grow. It’s like the hydra of the tree world. The wood is also terrible for pretty much anything. It’s not particularly strong, but somehow at the same time, it’s next to impossible to split. If you’re using an axe, you can pretty much forget about it. Even if you do succeed, it’s not great firewood. It burns up fast, but not very hot. It also smokes a lot and tends to pop. It’s a marginal timber tree since it tends to warp badly when dried, though somehow it’s one of the most used timber trees in the South. It’s mostly used for applications where looks and workability don’t matter, like railroad ties. And for bushcraft applications, its uses are limited. It’s fine for things like shelter poles where it doesn’t bear much weight or take any impact, but other than that, you’re better off looking elsewhere. Sweetgum is springy to a point but tends to shatter when put under much stress. And when left in the elements, it will quickly split and rot.

 

 

Check out this amazing grove of Sweetgum trees we found and hear some details about this beautiful tree!

Medicinal Uses:

 

Common Names- Sweetgum, Sweet-Gum, American Sweetgum, American Sweet-Gum, White Gum, Styrax, Star-leaved Gum, Red Gum, Opossum Tree, Liquid Storax, Liquidamber, Gum Tree, Copalm, American Storax, Alligator Wood, Satin Walnut

Scientific Name- Liquidambar styraciflua 

Edibility- The leaves are edible, but not tasty. The dried sap can be chewed as a bitter gum. Don’t let the common name fool you, it’s not sweet, it’s only considered sweet in comparison to the Tupelo or Sour Gum which it shares a habitat with.

Summary of Actions- Anticoagulant, Anticonvulsant, Antifungal, Antihepatotoxic, Antihypertensive, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Anti-ulcerogenic, Antiviral, Astringent, Carminative, Diuretic, Expectorant, Parasiticide, Stimulant, Sedative, and Vulnerary

Energetics and Flavors- Bitter and Pungent

Parts Used- Balsam (the sap), Bark, Balls, Leaves

Traditional Native American- Traditionally used by several Native American tribes, Sweetgum was used as a decoction made from the inner bark. This decoction is a powerful remedy for coughs, colds, flu, and fevers. It works as a gentle expectorant to help expel mucus, and as an antispasmodic to calm your lungs. Externally, the leaves have been used as a poultice for arthritis and sore joints, and work well as an anti-inflammatory. A salve can even be made by burning the Sweetgum balls down to ash and mixing it with bear grease or lard.

Cough, Cold, & Flu- Sweetgum contains a chemical known as oseltamivir phosphate or shikimic acid. This is the primary active ingredient in Tamiflu which is well-known over the counter medication for cold and flu. Traditionally a decoction made from either the inner bark of the tree or the seeds was sweetened and used as a syrup to help control cough, cold, and flu. 

Skin and Wound Care- Herbal baths that include Sweetgum may help to soothe inflamed joints and muscles. It can also help to improve the health of your skin. Sweetgum sap can also be used to help speed the healing of minor wounds and burns, as well as to prevent any infections.

Ringworm & Scabies- A salve made with Sweetgum sap will help to get rid of parasites such as ringworm and scabies. As a bonus, Sweetgum is also antimicrobial so it will help prevent any secondary infections that may result. 

Diarrhea & Dysentery- One of the traditional uses for this tree was to help treat diarrhea and dysentery. Simply drink ½ cup of a decoction made from the bark twice a day.

 Mucous Membranes- Sweetgum’s anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe mucus membranes. Especially in the case of catarrh, an inflammation of the mucous membranes in one of the airways or cavities of the body, usually with reference to the throat and paranasal sinuses.

Natural Toothbrush- Ever been camping and forgot your toothbrush? Or have you ever been hiking and get something stuck in your teeth? Sweetgum is a great tree for fixing this issue. Take your knife and cut a sweetgum twig no larger than a #2 pencil and 4”-6” long. Sharpen one end of it. That’s your toothpick. Take the other end and carefully score the face of it with your knife. This helps it fuzz out more quickly. Then simply chew on it for a while until the wood fibers start to fuzz out into a brush. Once you’re satisfied with the bristle texture, you can brush your teeth. The technique is a bit different than what you’re used to, you’ve got to go one tooth at a time. But let me tell you, this really works. The sap also has mild antiseptic qualities, which helps eliminate bad breath and leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh.

 Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- None known

   

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing native tree. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Pokeweed

     Having been raised in North Florida, by a family who has been in the South for many a generation (most of us are in Georgia, Virginia, and the Carolinas), I was raised with a few Appalachian traditions. One of these traditions was “Poke Salat.” Now, my parents didn’t prepare this traditional dish, but I did hear about it quite often and some other family members did prepare it occasionally. Though it sounds like a springtime salad, it’s actually a pot of cooked greens. I promise you that if anyone ever serves you a salad and calls it Poke Salat, you should run away as fast as you can. This is because Pokeweed is highly toxic and it has to be cooked several times over in order to be edible.

     Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is a poisonous, herbaceous plant that has long been used for food and folk medicine in parts of eastern North America, the Midwest and the Gulf Coast where it is native. Poke is a member of the Phytolaccaceae (Pokeweed) family and is a perennial herb. It grows up to 11ft tall, though the variety commonly found in the South tends to stop at 8ft. Single alternate leaves are pointed at the end with crinkled edges and an unpleasant smell. The stems are green, pink, or red. Flowers greenish-white in long clusters at ends of stems that will develop into dark purple berries resembling blueberries or elderberries. Pokeroot is best dug up in the fall after the plant has died back for the winter. This is when the plant is the most medicinal and the least toxic. The next best time to dig the roots is in the early spring when the leaves are just coming out (as long as you're sure what you're picking!). The leaves and berries are harvested from Autumn to the following Spring and can be found in North & South America, East Asia & New Zealand. Though it has become naturalized all over Europe. It’s often found on edges of fields or cleared lands and roadsides. Pokeweed poisonings were common in eastern North America during the 19th century. The roots were often mistaken for parsnip, Jerusalem artichoke, or horseradish. The berries are often mistaken for elderberries. Use caution! And remember, if you’re not 100% sure of your identification, DON’T consume/use the plant!

     Poke is predominately toxic to mammals, though some small mammals have a resistance to the toxin. The berries are an important food source for birds and can be eaten by them because the small seeds hard outer shell simply passes through the birds' digestive system. It’s also a valuable host plant for a number of butterfly species found here in Florida.

     

I recently filmed a video about this beautiful plant.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Poke, Pokeweed, Poke Salet, American Pokeweed, Cancer-root, Cancer Jalap, Inkberry, Pigeon Berry, Pocan, Poke, Poke Root, Pokeberry, Reujin D Ours, Sekerciboyaci, Skoke, Virginian Poke, Yoshu-Yama-Gobo, Yyamilin 

Scientific Name-  Phytolacca americana and P. acinosa 

Edibility- Pokeweed is edible when cooked properly. The young shoots and leaves are boiled in two changes of water. The leaves taste similar to spinach and the shoots taste similar to asparagus. Properly cooked Poke is known as "Poke Salet," not Poke Salad as it is commonly called. Poke berries are cooked and the resulting liquid used to color canned fruits and vegetables. Caution is advised as the whole plant is poisonous raw, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Summary of Actions- Alterative, anodyne, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiseptic, antitumor, antitussive, antiviral, cathartic, detoxifying, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, hypnotic, lymphagogue, narcotic, purgative, and resolvent. 

Energetics- Acrid, slightly sweet, root slightly bitter. The root is slightly cooling and drying. The berries are slightly warming.

Parts Used- Leaves, Berry, and Root 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Shang Lu, Poke affects the liver, spleen, bladder, and small intestine meridians. It clears toxins, reducing the swelling associated with goiters, arthritis, neuralgias, breast lumps and tumors, eczema, skin dermatitis, ulcers, and similar wounds. Shang Lu removes statis, especially when associated with abdominal distension, nausea, heavy feelings, moodiness, and constipation. It also clears up Liver Qi stagnation, which is commonly associated with breast lumps, tumors, acute mastitis, as well as chronic benign and malignant lumps. Like in Western Herbalism, Shang Lu is considered to be drastically purgative. 

Traditional Native American Uses- Some Native American tribes used Pokeweed as a purgative (to stimulate bowel clearance) and an emetic (to promote vomiting). Many traditional cultures believe that doing so "cleanses" the body, expels bad spirits. The fruit was made into a red dye used in painting horses and various articles of adornment. The Delaware Indians were likely the first to prescribe pokeweed in medicine, using it as a cardiac stimulant. Indians of the Rocky Mountain region used pokeweed to treat epilepsy, anxiety, and neurological disorders. The Pah-Utes fermented berries in water to make a narcotic tea. The Cherokee used poke in a number of different ways. The leaves were often combined with Lemon Balm and made into a tea to reduce phlegm and calm the chest when there was a cold our cough. The root was used as a blood purifier and antibiotic. It was considered especially potent in treating kidney infections. It was also used to increase metabolism.

Antibiotic- Most herbalists turn to Goldenseal for its use as an antibiotic. However, it’s an endangered species. Pokeweed is also a great antibiotic with many of the same properties, but as a bonus, it’s not endangered. It’s often considered a problematic weed in the South. 

Lyme Disease- I know of several herbalists who have successfully used a tincture made from the root to treat Lyme disease.

Rheumatism & Fibromyalgia- Some modern experts believe that rheumatism was used as a blanket term for several issues in older medical texts. One of these issues is believed to be fibromyalgia. Most older medical texts that include the use of Poke have described it as being fairly effective in the treatment of rheumatism. The berries were consumed whole or a tea made from the leaves was drunk for this purpose. Sometimes Prickly Ash was added to the tea for rheumatism.

Endocrine Regulator- Poke helps to regulate your hormones. It has the most profound effect on the pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, and sex glands. This makes it a prime herb to use in cases of sterility, impotence, low sperm count, and prostate issues.

Skin Conditions- Pokeweed has frequently been used in folk medicine to treat skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and scrofula (tuberculosis of the neck). However, caution should be used with this plant as the sap can cause irritation, swelling, and an itchy rash in people with sensitive skin. Despite that, it is believed to have amazing anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve localized pain and swelling.

Detoxifying- It is one of the strongest herbs known to promote cleansing and clear toxemia that also acts on the glands. Because of this, it has a long history of use for detoxifying the blood and body.

Thyroid- Poke is an old-time Appalachian remedy for hypothyroidism, especially goiter.

Auto-immune Disease- The root is taken internally in the treatment of auto-immune diseases (especially rheumatoid arthritis), tonsillitis, mumps, glandular fever and other complaints involving swollen glands, chronic catarrh, bronchitis etc. 

Dye, Ink, & Food Coloring- A rich brown dye can be made by soaking fabric in fermenting berries in hollowed out pumpkin. Using the fermented berries, without the pumpkin, yields a pink-ish red dye. It was often used as red ink or dye in the civil war era. Many letters written home during the civil war were written in pokeberry ink, which now appears as brown ink. Pokeberry has also been used as a red food coloring and as a wine coloring agent. 

Toxicity and Dosage- It is a strong herb so dosages must be monitored and respected. (Even just one to two drops of tincture is enough and not more than ten drops is recommended.) Because it is so strong it is usually used in combination with other herbs that can help soften its approach without lessening its properties. In Appalachian folk medicine, the berries are swallowed as a treatment for arthritis and for immune stimulation. Only swallow one berry (either fresh or dried) at a time. One berry is the equivalent of one drop of root tincture. At doses of 1 g, dried poke root is emetic and purgative. At lower doses of 60 to 100 mg/day, the root and berries have been used to treat rheumatism and for immune stimulation; however, there are no clinical trials that support these uses or doses. 

Side Effects- Individuals show widely varying tolerance for poke. Some people can't handle more than three or five drops per day, while others can take 25 or 50 drops with no adverse effects. The side effects of poke include mental unclarity, spaciness, and out-of-body feelings. If you notice such feelings, it means you've found your tolerance level, so back off to a lower dosage. If you take way too much (such as mistaking dropperful for drops, which some people have done!), you may encounter more severe side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- All parts of the plant are toxic with roots being the most toxic, stems and leaves are less so and the least toxic is the fruit. The raw berry is toxic. If cooked improperly the juice from the leaves can cause severe stomach cramping, diarrhea, vomiting, convulsions, death. The plant sap can cause dermatitis in sensitive people. The plant contains substances that cause cell division and can damage chromosomes. These substances can be absorbed through any abrasions in the skin, potentially causing serious blood aberrations, and so it is strongly recommended that the people wear gloves when handling the plant. Do not use this plat during pregnancy! Ingestion of poisonous parts of the plant may cause severe stomach cramping, nausea with persistent diarrhea and vomiting, slow and difficult breathing, weakness, spasms, hypotension, severe convulsions, and death. 

     I only included a basic introduction to this wonderful Appalachian herb. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

Books:

The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to New World Medicinal Plants by Matthew Wood 

Florida’s Edible Wild Plants by Peggy Sias Lantz

Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth by Dr. Sharol Marie Tilgner

The Cherokee Herbal by J.T. Garrett

Websites: 

Foods Indigenous to the Western Hemisphere: American Indian Health and Diet Project: http://www.aihd.ku.edu/foods/pokeweed.html#:~:text=Uses,to%20humans%20and%20some%20animals. 

The Health Benefits of Pokeweed: Very Well Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-pokeweed-provide-health-benefits-4587368 

Poke: Southeast Wise Women: https://www.sewisewomen.com/poke 

Poke (Shang Lu): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/poke/ 

Pokeweed: Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/npp/pokeweed.html 

Pokeweed: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/p/phytolacca-americana=pokeweed.php 

Pokeweed, An Herb For All Things Pokey: The Herbwife’s Kitchen: http://crabappleherbs.com/blog/2007/07/31/pokeweed-an-herb-for-all-things-pokey/comment-page-2/ 

Pokeweed Herb: Alternative Nature Online Herbal: https://altnature.com/gallery/pokeweed.htm 

Reishi

   

     Mushrooms are associated with many things. From magic and spirituality, to danger and poison. And, to be fair, many mushrooms do a little bit of it all. Today, however, I wanted to introduce you to the mushroom that has been used medicinally for the longest time in recorded history. Reishi.

     Reishi, Ganoderma lucidum, is a polypore mushroom that are soft corky and flat, with a red-varnish, kidney shaped cap. They do not have any gills on their undersides. They are hard to the touch, with a leathery feel, meaning they are resilient and can last for many years, as opposed to many other fungi that only last a few days. They grow as a parasite, or saprotroph, on a wide variety of trees and aid in the decomposition process of wood. There are around 219 species of Ganoderma in the world, 80 of which are of commercial use. There are six different species used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and several other close relations used by herbalists world wide. Ganoderma grow in the North Eastern Hemlock forests and have a worldwide distribution, typically in both tropical and temperate regions. When found in nature, Ganoderma prefer to grow at the base of deciduous trees, and are particularly fond of maples. The Ganoderma genus is becoming more and more complex as we develop and use DNA analysis. Every year we are finding out more and more about Reishi, and other fungi, and learning that we know even less than we thought we did. Several species of medicinal Reishi have recently been found to actually be multiple different species, which could go a long way to explaining the different variations that exist within this genus. While Ganoderma has been used, in TCM, for over 2,000 years, there are really six dominant species that have been in use, each of which is classified by color and potency. Our local varieties are the Ganoderma curtisii and the Ganoderma zonatum.

     While there are so many species that have medicinal value, I tend towards the utmost caution when it comes to our fungal friends. Mushrooms tend to have varied effects from species to species. Some species may not have a noticeable effect at all, and some may be so strong as to be considered toxic. This is one medicinal I would only get from a trusted source, at least until I have enough experience working with it myself (preferably under the guidance of a mycological mentor).




Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Reishi, Red Reishi, Mushroom of Imortality

Scientific Name- Ganoderma lucidum, G. lingzhi, G. curtisii, G. zonatum 

Edibility- It’s edible, but very bitter.

Summary of Actions- Antiallergic, antiatherogenic, anticonvulsant, antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, diuretic, immunomodulating, laxative, sedative, and tonic.

Parts Used- The whole mushroom

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Ling Zhi in TCM tradition, there are six different types of Ganoderma lucidum. Each one is classified by color and each has slightly different properties. The most commonly used, and most potent, is the red variety. It is used to calm Shen, tonify Wei Qi and Blood, nourish the heart, remove toxicity, disperse accumulations, and support the Three Treasures (Jing, Qi, and Shen).

Stress Management- Reishi is an adaptogen, a classification of herbs that help flush out harmful stress related toxins and help our bodies adopt a healthy response to stress. This helps to alleviate anxiety and improve symptoms associated with stress, such as insomnia.

Increased Immunity- While some details are still uncertain, test-tube studies have shown that Ganoderma can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are critical parts of your immune system. What’s more, these studies have found that some forms of Ganoderma may alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells. There is a question to Ganoderma’s effect on healthy people as some studies have shown that there is no increased white blood cell activity in healthy patients, only in ill ones, or in athletes who have been exposed to stressful situations.


Fatigue- One study examined its effects in 132 people with neurasthenia, a poorly defined condition associated with aches, pains, dizziness, headaches and irritability. The researchers found that fatigue was reduced and well-being was improved after 8 weeks of taking the supplements. Another study found that fatigue was reduced and quality of life was improved after 4 weeks of taking Ganoderma powder.

Cardiovascular Health- One 12-week study of 26 people showed that Reishi may increase “good” HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides. The effect of Reishi on blood pressure is conflicting. Taking Reishi doesn't seem to lower blood pressure in people with only slightly high blood pressure. But it seems to lower blood pressure in people with more severe high blood pressure.

Cancer- Studies seem to suggest that cancer patients who supplement with Ganoderma extract are more likely to respond positively to chemotherapy and radiation than those who do not supplement. However, it does not have a significant effect on killing cancer cells when used alone. Patients taking Ganoderma have reported a better quality of life, but no studies recorded whether or not patients who took Ganoderma lived longer than those who did not. Other research in cancer patients has shown that some of the phytochemicals found in the mushroom can increase the activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells, which fight infections and cancer in the body. Consult your doctor before supplementing with Ganoderma as it does interact with certain medications and treatments.

Allergies- Reishi has been used for allergies and allergic asthma reactions for quite a long time. Modern studies have shown that the ganoderic acid present in Reishi acts as an antihistamine, reducing the body’s histamine response. Some of these studies have also shown that Reishi, while supporting the immune system, can also regulate the body’s immune response, helping to stifle an overactive immune system.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Reishi mushroom extract is safe when taken by mouth, in the correct dosage, for up to one year. Reishi mushroom is safe when taken by mouth in a powdered form for less than one month. Use of powdered Reishi, for longer than one month, has been associated with toxic effects on the liver. Reishi mushroom can also cause other side effects including dryness of the mouth, throat, and nasal area along with itchiness, stomach upset, nosebleed, and bloody stools. Drinking Reishi wine can cause a rash. Breathing in Reishi spores can trigger allergies. There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking Reishi mushroom if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. There are some drug interactions reported, if you are taking any medications please consult your doctor. Reishi is associated with increased risk of bleeding in people who have bleeding disorders. Consult with your doctor if you think you are at risk. Also, discontinue the use of Reishi for at least 2 weeks prior to any surgeries as it may increase your risk of complications.






     I only included a basic introduction to this wonderfully useful fungus. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

6 Benefits of Reishi Mushroom (Plus Side Effects and Dosage): Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/reishi-mushroom-benefits

The Benefits of Reishi Mushroom: Four Sigmatic: https://site.foursigmatic.com/blog/reishi

The Benefits of Reishi Mushroom: Landish: https://landish.co/pages/reishi

Everything You Need To Know About Reishi Mushrooms: Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326520

Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi): Herbal Medicine – Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/

Polypore: Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polypore

Reishi: White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/reishi/

Reishi Mushroom: The ASCO Post: https://www.ascopost.com/issues/august-10-2018/reishi-mushroom/

Reishi Mushroom : Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/reishi-mushroom

Reishi Mushroom: WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-905/reishi-mushroom

Reishi, the Queen of Medicinal Mushrooms: Ayurveda Mandala: https://ayurveda-mandala.com/blog/reishi-the-queen-of-medicinal-mushrooms/#:~:text=Reishi%20or%20Ganoderma%20Lucidum%20as,spirit%20and%20calm%20the%20mind.

Scientific Research & Medicinal Fungi: North American Mycological Association: https://namyco.org/scientific_research_and_medici.php

Mullein

     Today I thought I’d share with you a plant that is fairly famous in the herbal world, and infamous in the world of ecology. Mullein has a number of medicinal uses, and is an herb I call on for many issues in my home. However, it’s invasive as heck and has a tendency to disrupt a number of native habitats here in the US. It was brought over here, from Europe, by the settlers. Likely due to a combination of it’s usefulness in a number of medicinal complaints, and it’s folk use as an herb for protection from evil spirits. Of course, since it spreads fast and likes to follow people around, the Native American tribes picked up on the uses for this plant. However, there is a debate on whether the Native Americans learned of these uses from the settlers, or vice versa. Likely, there was a fairly even exchange going both ways, especially since we know the settlers rarely used the roots, but a number of Native Americans used the root quite often. However, I’m going to take us back to the folk uses for a brief tangent. Mullein was always considered by the ancients as a plant of protection from dark forces. It was the plant Ulysses took with him on his famous sea voyage to protect himself from the enchantress Circe. In India mullein is considered a safeguard against evil spirits. Medieval Europeans dipped the plant in suet and used it as a torch during ceremonies or when overcoming the presumed evil. Later, the European settlers would wear the leaves around their wrists and ankles to protect themselves from the evil winds that carried diseases such as malaria.

     Mullein, Verbascum thapsus, is a plant in the Scrophulariaceae family, or the Figwort family. This family is closely related to the Mint family, or Lamiaceae, and shares some of the characteristics such as square stems and opposite leaves. However, when the leaves are crushed you will not notice a strong scent, or really much of any scent at all. First-year plants form a rosette of large, velvety leaves up to 1 foot long. These rosettes can grow up to 3 feet tall. In the second year, a velvety flower spike grows to 8 feet tall. The stalk has alternate leaves that clasp the stem, a nifty arrangement that directs rainwater down the stem to the roots. From June to September, five-petaled yellow flowers bloom randomly in the dense, club-shaped terminal cluster. The three upper stamens, which are short and woolly, contain a sap that lures insects to the plant. The two lower stamens, which are longer and smooth, produce the pollen that fertilizes the flower. Mullein is a widely distributed plant, being found all over Europe and in temperate Asia as far as the Himalayas, and in North America. However, it is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, with highest species diversity in the Mediterranean. It is invasive in this country, which is good news for herbalists who can harvest and use as much as they want want. Usually I caution to not take all of a plant to preserve the native habitat, but in this case over harvesting will help preserve the native habitat (in the US)! While we’re on the topic of harvesting, many herbalists harvest the leaves in first year only, but as long as you harvest the leaves before any flowers bloom it should be just as potent, and you can still get benefit from the leaves throughout the life of the plant, as long as they’re not brown. The thought process behind this is that when the flowers bloom, all the energy of the plant is focused in those flowers. This reduces potency in other parts of the plant.

     If you take a close look at this plant, and think about the doctrine of signatures, you’ll notice little hairs on leaves that resemble the cilia of the lungs. This points to the main use of this herb, for upper respiratory complaints and infections. Mullein soothes the mucus membranes, cilia, and inflamed tissues in the respiratory tract. It’s also a great antibacterial and antiviral herb, which helps to fight those kinds of infections along the way. Those hairs also help the leaf to be fairly soft and absorbent, making them great to use, in an emergency, as bandages, toilet paper, and diapers. Though you may want to do a spot test to make sure those hairs aren’t going to irritate your skin.

     One of the YouTube channels I follow is full of great herbal information. Check out Herbal Jedi and see what Yarrow Willard has to say about Mullein.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Mullein, Common Mullein, Great Mullein, Cowboy Toilet Paper, Bunny’s Ear, Flannel Leaf, Candlewick Plant, Hag Tapper, Jacob’s Staff, Jupiter’s Staff, Aaron’s Rod, Fluffweed, Golden Rod

Scientific Name- Verbascum thapsus

Edibility- Considered to be inedible, but it’s not toxic.

Summary of Actions- Adrenal tonic, analgesic, anesthetic, anodyne, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, mucolytic, relaxant, sedative, and trophorestorative.

Parts Used- Leaves, flowers, and root

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Jia Yan Ye, Mullein is used on the lung, stomach, and intestinal meridians. It’s flavors and energetics are considered to be a little Sweet, Astringent, Bland, Cool, and Moistening. It promotes Lung Yin, moistens sore throat and lungs, coughs, and asthma. Expels phlegm, helping in cases of whooping cough as well as coughs with yellow or white phlegm. Reduces inflammation and dry mucous dampness associated with nasal and head congestion, watery discharge, hay fever, chronic intestinal infections, and painful urination. Soothes bladder irritation due to any cause. Softens boils and expels pus in wounds and irritated skin conditions.

Traditional Native American Uses- Some Native Americans also used the plant’s roots. The Creek Indians drank a decoction of the roots for coughs; other tribes smoked the roots or dried leaves to treat asthma. Some tribes also made necklaces, from the dried roots, for teething babies. The Cherokee rubbed mullein leaves in their armpits to treat “prickly rash.” Leaf poultices were used to treat bruises, tumors, rheumatic pains and hemorrhoids. Mullein flower oil (made by steeping the flowers in warm olive oil) also has been used for treating hemorrhoids, as well as earaches. Menominee tribe smoked the pulverized dried roots for respiratory complaints. The Mohgans smoked it to relieve asthma.

Smoking Herb- A number of Native American tribes would smoke Mullein after having smoked a bit too much tobacco, to help the lungs recover. It’s also a good smoking herb to help reduce smoker’s cough, that dry and raspy cough. Some other herbs, like coltsfoot, can be added to the smoking blend to help soothe the irritated tissues of the respiratory tract as well. If you don’t want to smoke it, try burning it as an incense.

Flower Essence- Used for those who have difficulty hearing their inner voice. Those with a weak moral fiber, often leading to confusion and indecisiveness. Those who use lies or deception with themselves and others. Mullein flower essence relates to men who are searching for true intimacy and security in expressing a soft, gentle, humble nature, or for women who want to strengthen yet soften their masculine nature. Mullein flower essence also helps soften the edges of people who have become hardened by events in their life.

Upper Respiratory, Cold, & Flu- Mullein tea is most well known for relieving the symptoms of asthma and soothing the mucus membranes of the respiratory tract. The flowers and leaves are used for treating a wide range of respiratory ailments, such as cold and flu, tuberculosis, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, tonsillitis, and tracheitis. It also has antiviral and antibacterial properties that make it perfect for treating those infections. Mullien mixed with horehound, coltsfoot, and lobelia makes a great tea for most upper respiratory conditions.

Ear Infections- Tea made from the leaves, and flower infused oil are traditional ear infection treatments. The oil seems to be the most potent, particularly when accompanied with a gentle lymphatic massage around the ear and along the jawline. Adding other herbs, such as Garlic or St. John’s Wort, can help improve the effectiveness of Mullein oil as well.

Lymphatic System- Mullein leaves or flowers can be applied as a compress to any instance of glandular swelling. Mullein leaves be made into a strong decoction, then that water can be used to wet more leaves that then can applied externally over any glandular swelling. A decoction of the root can also be taken internally to help improve the overall function of the lymphatic system.

Urinary System- Mullein root is excellent remedy for treating urinary incontinence and loss of urinary control due to a swollen prostate because it tones and strengthens the trigone sphincter at the base of the bladder. Mullein root also has mild astringent properties which reduce inflammation in the mucosa of the bladder. It does not irritate or over stimulate bladder or kidney function. Mullein root can be used as a long term tonic for individuals with urinary incontinence, recurring bladder infections, interstitial cystitis, and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). A tea made from the leaves can also help to strengthen the bladder, remove toxins from the kidneys, and improve overall urinary function.

Bruises, Burns, & Skin Conditions- Mullein leaves possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help treat skin problems. You can also use the flowers, infused in oil, to get relief from a variety of skin infections, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions. Boil the leaves, just until tender, and spread the leaf onto burns, bruises, sores, and wounds to help reduce inflammation, protect against infection, and soothe any aches.

Hyperthyroidism- Some evidence suggests that intake of mullein tea may improve thyroid-related problems. The tea may help treat hypothyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland). A formula created by a noted doctor had mullein as one of its constituents. This formula was specifically targeted to treat thyroid issues. However, more research is needed.

Domestic & Practical Uses- A yellow dye extracted from the flowers has been used since Roman times as a hair rinse as well as to dye cloth. The whole plant can be used to make torches, and the flower stalks have traditionally been coated with tallow and made into candle wicks. The dried leaves and stalk are also useful as tinder and fire-starters. The leaves are soft and absorbent so they can be used as makeshift bandages and toilet paper.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Mullein is widely considered safe. This herb may cause skin irritation for some people, so be sure to exercise caution if you’re handling the herb directly, and the tiny hairs of the plant can also irritate your throat and other mucus membranes. It’s a good idea to see how you react to a small amount of mullein before consuming it or smearing it on your body. And always strain the tea thoroughly to remove any stray hairs. This herb also has several drug interactions, so please consult your doctor before adding this to your daily routine.






     I only included a basic introduction to this wonderful Florida native. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

11 Impressive Health Benefits of Mullein Tea: Style Craze: https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/health-benefits-of-mullein-tea/

Health Benefits of Mullein: Very Well Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-mullein-89575

Herb to Know- Mullein (Verbascum thapsus): Mother Earth Living: https://www.motherearthliving.com/plant-profile/herb-to-know-mullein-verbascum-thapsus

Mullein: Wild Rose College of Natural Healing: https://wildrosecollege.com/encyclopaedia_entry/mullein-fe/

Mullein Flowers (Verbascum thapsus): Planet Ayurveda: https://www.planetayurveda.com/mullein-flowers-verbascum-thapsus/

Mullein, Great: A Modern Herbal: https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/m/mulgre63.html

Mullein (Jia Yan Ye): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/Mullein/

Mullein- The Medicinal Herb that Fights Infections and Inflammation: Dr. Axe: https://draxe.com/nutrition/mullein/

Mullein, Verbascum thapsus: Traditional Roots Institute: https://traditionalroots.org/mullein-verbascum-thapsus/

Verbascum thapsus: Hebpathy: https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Verbascum-Thapsus-Cid2841

What is Mullein Tea? Benefits, Side Effects, and More: Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mullein-tea

Prickly Pear

     Many of you may not be aware of this, but I love succulents and cacti. I think they are astonishingly beautiful and exceedingly unique. Their ability to store water in their stems/leaves is awesome and super helpful in dry areas and drought. Also, while most of us think of these plants in relation to deserts, not a lot of people are aware that the swampy state of Florida has quite a few native cacti as well. So today I figured that I'd introduce you to our most common native Cactus, the Prickly Pear.

     Opuntia stricta (Prickly Pear) is commonly found all throughout Florida, though mainly found in the coastal grasslands, coastal strands, shell mounds, beach dunes, and coastal hammocks. It is, of course, in the Cactaceae, or Cactus, family. This cactus can get quite tall, but often tops out at around 6.5ft, with erect stems that are branched and covered with spines. Most Prickly Pears tend to sprawl and stay close to the ground, but in Florida they have more of a tendency to grow taller. They often grow in clusters or colonies, but can also be found as individual plants. The pads of this cactus are stems that have evolved to hold water and act like leaves by photosynthesizing. The pads also contain an antifreeze compound that allows this cactus to survive in extremely low to freezing temperatures. They can be 2-7 inches (5-17 centimeters) long and 1.5-5 inches (4-12 centimeters) wide. The spines emerge from the center of small dot-like structures called areoles. Each areole contains glochids (small hair like structures that irritate the skin) and some even contain spines. The flowers emerge from the ends of the pads in early summer. These flowers are yellow and quite large. The fruit of this particular species is reddish purple. Other commonly used species have flowers that have orange, and sometimes even some red, in the center and their fruit can range in colors from a light pinkish red to a deep reddish purple. The flowers are pollinated by insects but they also have a unique feature, their stamens move in response to touch. This is to both encourage cross pollination, aid in self pollination, and to discourage pollen and nectar “robbers” (insects that consume the flower's resources without providing assistance in the pollination process). If you want to read more about this fascinating phenomenon, check out Awkward Botany's post here.

     This plant is a staple food of the indigenous peoples of North America. The pads can be found in some supermarkets and are sold as Nopales or Nopalitos. The pads, fruit, and flowers are all edible and can be eaten raw or cooked, though the areoles and spines should be removed before preparing or consuming. The fruit and pads are also commonly juiced. The juice makes a darn good margarita, but is also commonly given to diabetic patients to help control their blood glucose levels. The fruit is sweet, but not as sweet as other species, particularly the Opuntia ficus-indica. Some Mexican restaurants will serve Prickly Pear or Nopales as appetizers, or scrambled with eggs as a breakfast or brunch item.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Prickly Pear, Nopales, Nopal Cactus, Indian Fig, Cactus Pear, Barbary Fig, and Tuna Fig

Scientific Name- Opuntia spp. Commonly used species include Opuntia stricta (our Florida native), O. ficus-indica, O. megacantha, and O. amychlea. 

Edibility- The pads (Nopales or Nopalitos) are a staple food in indigenous cultures of North America. They are often grilled, sauteed, or even scrambled with eggs, though they are perfectly safe to consume raw as well. The flowers are also edible, as well as the fruits which are often called Cactus Pears. The fruit and pads both have areoles that contain irritating fibers and/or spines, so you should remove these before preparing or consuming. The pads and fruit are also commonly juiced.

Summary of Actions- Appetite depressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiulcer, antiviral, cardiotonic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, and neuro-protective.

Parts Used- Pads, Flowers, and Fruit.

Traditional Native American Uses- Prickly Pear Cactus has been used in Native American cultures for centuries. The heated cactus pads have served as poultices for rheumatism, and the fruit of the plant is consumed as treatment for diarrhea, asthma and gonorrhea. Indigenous people also consume prickly pear to address high blood pressure, gastric acidity, ulcers, fatigue, shortness of breath, prostate enlargement, glaucoma, and liver disorders.

Diabetes- Not only is this cactus high in fiber, which helps to control blood glucose levels. It also contains compounds that take a more active role in balancing out blood sugar. This plant is highly recommended to both prevent diabetes, and help control blood sugar in those who are currently diabetic.

High Cholesterol- The fiber content of this plant helps to control cholesterol levels, prevents buildup in the arteries, and helps keep the circulatory system healthy in general.

Digestion- The high fiber content of Prickly Pear Cactus helps to move food more efficiently in the digestive tract. It also helps to prevent ulcers, and improve digestion by reducing internal inflammation.

Wound and Burn Care- One traditional use of this cactus that is continued today is for wound and burn care. Much like Aloe, Prickly Pear is a great herb to use in the case of burns. It helps take the “sting” out of them while providing a barrier that helps prevent infection. It's also a great herb to help speed the healing of both wounds and burns.

HIV- Prickly Pear extracts are currently being studied for their antiviral properties in relation to certain viruses. One of particular note is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV. Research has been limited thus far, but this plant shows promise to help control this virus and others.

Immune Boosting- Prickly pear is full of vitamin C, just one serving contains 1/3 the recommended daily amount. It's also a very effective anti-inflammatory, which helps to improve immunity as well as general health.

Hangovers- Prickly Pear is a folk remedy for hangovers. I usually don't put much stock in hangover remedies, instead I tend to emphasize the importance of hydration when you set out to drink heavily (and I don't recommend doing this, ever). However, in a Tulane University study published in the June 28, 2004 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine. Researchers found that volunteers who took a prickly pear extract five hours before consuming five to 7 alcoholic drinks had significantly less nausea, dry mouth and loss of appetite the following day compared to those who took a placebo. (The extract did not prevent hangover-related headaches and dizziness, however.) The researchers suggested that the benefits were related to prickly pear’s strong anti-inflammatory effects.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Generally considered safe, practitioners recommend that people gradually add prickly pear cactus to their diets. Both the edible plant and the dietary supplements can cause negative side effects in some people. Nausea, increased stool volume and frequency, mild diarrhea and abdominal fullness are the most common side effects. While they are not the norm, easing prickly pear into the diet can minimize these effects.

     I only included a basic introduction to Prickly Pear. I hope you have gained a new appreciation for this amazing little cactus. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! Follow me on Instagram (BatLadyHerbailst). I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and want to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

Florida Wildflowers A Comprehensive Guide by Walter Kingsley Taylor

The Amazing Cacti- 7 Benefits of Prickly Pear: Wide Open Eats: https://www.wideopeneats.com/the-amazing-cactus-7-prickly-pear-health-benefits/

Cactus, A Medicinal Food: US National Library of Medicine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3550841/

Eastern Prickly Pear: US Forest Service: https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/opuntia_humifusa.shtml

Food As Medicine- Prickly Pear Cactus: American Botanical Council: http://cms.herbalgram.org/heg/volume12/09September/FaMPricklyPear.html?utm_source=hootsuite&ts=1567462532&signature=db4abb75b394ddd68876cf33a41ff96a

Foods Indigenous to the Western Hemisphere- Prickly Pear Cactus: American Indian Health and Diet Project: http://www.aihd.ku.edu/foods/prickly_pear_cactus.html

Medicinal Importance of Prickly Pear Cactus: Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: https://www.longdom.org/proceedings/medicinal-importance-of-prickly-pear-cactus-43375.html

Prickly Pear: Annie's Rmemdy: https://www.anniesremedy.com/opuntia-ficus-indica-prickly-pear.php

Prickly Pear, A Cactus Cure?: Dr. Weil: https://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/balanced-living/wellness-therapies/prickly-pear-a-cactus-cure/

Prickly Pear Cactus Plant Benefits: Herb Wisdom: https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-prickly-pear-cactus.html

What Are the Benefits of Nopal?: Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320293.php