Willow
Willow Tree
Willow trees contain Salicylic Acid, which is the same ingredient as Aspirin. Pioneers and Native American Indians alike used the inner bark of willow trees to treat a sore throat, aches, diarrhea, insomnia, and arthritis. Grinding the inner bark with water was mixed to drink or to apply as a poultice to aide in the healing of wounds.
Dandelions
Dandelions
Dandelions are weeds that can be found in the country as well as in many lawns. Dandelions are harvested for cooking and in making wine. The entire plant is edible, and it is high in Vitamin A, potassium, calcium, iron, and phosphorus. The flower can be boiled or fried. The leaves are used in salads or boiled, and the roots are roasted as a substitute for coffee. The flowers are also allowed to ferment for the making of wine. Dandelions were very popular during the Great Depression for supplying food and making wine.
Sassafras
Sassafras
A main ingredient in the making of gumbo is File powder which has dried Sassafras leaves in it. Teas and jelly can be made from the Sassafras bush. The small bush has black colored berries on it and has been used in the United States for over four hundred years. It's used not only for its edible qualities; it's also used for its medicinal qualities. Sassafras was believed to be a cure all for many ailments, and it was taken every spring to ward off illness.
Important Information
Many edible wild plants do not grow in large populations so it takes time to gather enough wild plants to eat. Seasons will also play an important part in harvesting as some edible wild plants will only be edible during certain times or only when there is young, tender shoots to harvest. An extensive knowledge of what types of edible wild plants are available is critical since simply picking a wild plant could result in poisoning.
