Momma Said to Eat Your Weeds

I’ve always been a gardener.  It’s just in my bones I suppose.  My paternal grandfather was known all over the county for his fresh summer veggies. He liked to experiment and grow unusual things that the folks around may not have seen.

I’m like that.  Seeking the varieties they may have fallen out of fashion due to market demand and sustainability.  My dad loves to recount the day I served him “weeds” in his salad.  I’d picked fresh dandelion leaves and added them.  Thirty-five years later and he still brings it up.  My answer is always, “You’re still here aren’t you?” 😉

We are fascinatingly created beings.  I mean if you’re in need of a miracle today…look no further than your bathroom mirror!  “Fearfully and wonderfully made” the Bible says. We are this complex system of macro and micro nutrients working together to nourish, detoxify, rebuild, fuel and sustain us!  And what a Creator we have, because He even provided the means to replenish those nutrients.

Then God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you; Gen 1:29

I’ve already mentioned dandelion briefly.  Another common “weed” that is edible is the Common Plantain (not to be confused with the fruit that looks like a banana). 

There are several kinds of common plantain, including a broadleaf and a narrow leaf variety commonly found in yards, sidewalk cracks and wasteland areas.

The lowly plantain weed is one of God’s most nutritious creations.  Studies show it can help lower cholesterol.  It is a powerful diuretic.  It is packed with iron and potassium. And is an anti-inflammatory food.

Not to be outdone by the plantain, the dandelion is a power-house itself.  Remember that salad I served?  The one my dad swears I was trying to kill someone?  Actually, it was a very life giving salad.  Those dandelion greens were chock full of Vitamin A, Vitamin K, potassium, calcium and fiber.  Dandelions have been called nature’s most abundant green vegetable source of beta carotene.  Dandelion greens have been used worldwide throughout history as a liver detoxifier.  And as kidney and bladder tonic with the same diuretic strength as the prescription furosemide (Lasix).

So if you are feeling inclined, you can pick some plantain and dandelion for tonight’s salad.  Make sure you know your plants…don’t want you picking the wrong thing!  Also only pick in areas that are free of pesticides and residue from passing vehicles.

If that sounds a little too cumbersome for you, there is an easier alternative. If you’d like to learn more about how to get your greens everyday in a convenient on-the-go packet then click here.

After all, Momma did say to eat your weeds…I mean your greens.  😉

Sources:

Healthy Body Now website

The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler, ND

The Detox Miracle Sourcebook by Dr. Robert Morse

Photo credit: Wallpapercave.com