7 Backyard Weeds and Their Impressive Benefits
Long ago, our ancestors understood that all plants have properties, not just the ones we purposefully grew. Over the years, we lost the knowledge about which wild plants and weeds have health benefits that we might desire. Instead, we spend money on weed killers to eradicate them from our property.
We are gaining this wisdom back and slowly learning how to tap into the benefits of our backyard weeds. Don’t make an attack plan to get rid of all the weeds. Take a serious look at what is growing outside and see if you can use any of these weeds for your health!
Chickweed
Most backyards have an abundance of chickweed! It is a fantastic source of vitamins A, D, and C! Chickweed also contains iron, calcium, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus. For such a small plant, it packs a powerful punch. You can pick it fresh, then add to your salads. Many people compare the flavor to spinach.
For medicinal purposes, chickweed is a treatment for minor cuts, burns, eczema, and rashes. Some people use it as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.
Chicory
Many nations in Europe still consider chicory a beloved plant for meals, despite its rather bitter flavor. Some say that boiling the leaves first before adding to your dishes helps to remove that bitter flavor. The roots are also edible, typically backed and ground. Chicory root is a substitute for coffee if you are all out!
Chicory grows with a light, blue flower, and can often be found along roadsides. The medicinal purposes revolve around internal issues. When used as a tonic, chicory can stimulate your appetite or calm an upset stomach. It also can aid with constipation issues.
Dandelion
Those lovely, yellow flowers dotting your front yard are good for something! Dandelions are edible and make delicious jelly, wine and even can be used for salads. This well-known weed contains vitamins A, B, C, and D, along with iron, zinc, and potassium. Something so frustrating is beneficial!
Our ancestors understood the power of the dandelion, and they tapped into it for several ailments. Most commonly, dandelions are used as a diuretic, appetite stimulant and heartburn. If you soak dandelion flowers and create an infused oil, you can create salves and ointments for treating skin problems or minor cuts.
