How to Identify Wild Plants Safely

Yes, our lawns, parks, and forests are filled to the brim with edible and medicinal plants. So, one would think that all you need to do is determine what they are and just start picking it. However, it's not as easy as that. There is a safe, responsible way to go about doing it. Once you learn the ropes, it will become second nature. According to my own experiences as an herbalist, I understand that it is up to us to use and pick these plants in a responsible manner.

Insure Correct Identification

The very first thing you need to do is make sure you know which plants are which. Some plants are absolutely not edible and some may have poisonous look-alikes. It is important to not only have a good field guide with you at all times, but it is also helpful to have an expert visually show you what the plants look like. For this you can either ask a trusted friend or take a class.

Learn About the Plants

Another important element of safe identification and consumption is to learn about the plants. Each plant has its own medicinal value. Not only that, but there is an optimum time of the year where you can pick the plant for the highest medicinal value. For example, dandelion and burdock root are best picked in the fall when the plants start to die back a little because all the medicinal compounds go into the roots. Plus, the better you know a plant, the easier it will be to tell the difference between them out in the fields and forests.

Learn to Make Medicine

Part of learning about the plants is making medicine. Each plant has its own special routine. Some wild herbs, such as peppermint, are best preserved by drying and then prepared as a tea. Other herbs such as burdock root, are best eaten fresh or made into a tincture. However, Burdock root tea is also effective for certain .

Is the plant safe?

Some medicines aren't necessarily poisonous but they are dangerous if taken incorrectly or at all. Digitalis, for example, is sometimes used (with great, great care) for heart conditions. However, if the wrong dose is taken it could lead to death. When taken in the right dose, it can help with things like heart murmers. However, since the plant is so dangerous it's best not to take any chances.

Be Responsible

One more thing - when picking the plants it is best to be responsible. Don't deplete the area of the plant. After all, you will want to enjoy the plant for many years to come.