When we hear the word ‘weed,’ most of us associate a negative connotation to it. However, while some weeds do need managing, there are plenty of others that actually have some amazing medicinal qualities! Here are some healing weeds you should definitely keep in your yard or garden.
Dandelion
Dandelions are technically a weed, but I’d hardly consider them that! They may be annoying to some, but many people actually like how they look (mostly small children).
Did you know that the pioneers brought dandelion over to the United States with them as a “hunger gap” food? As one of the first plants to sprout in the spring, dandelions helped provide food until their gardens started producing. Another bonus: pretty much the entire plant is edible, from the flower to the leaves right down to the roots!
I love making dandelion shortbread cookies in the spring, which are absolutely delicious. Dandelion root tea is also a nice, warming coffee alternative if you’re trying to cut back on caffeine and support your liver while you’re at it.
Plantain
No, I don’t mean the banana-looking fruit at the grocery store. I mean the leafy green “weed” that sprouts up just about everywhere! I see it almost everywhere I go alongside paths, in the woods, and yes – in my backyard. Plantain leaves are packed full of vitamins and other nutrients. They are especially high in vitamins A and C, which can boost immune health.
You can make an on-the-go poultice for insect bites, stings, or small cuts and scratches using plantain! Simply chew a bit of the leaves and apply to the affected area. If you have more lead time, try making a balm at home to have at the ready! If that sounds too advanced for your tastes, try throwing a few leaves in your next chopped salad or other dishes for some added nutrition.
Goldenrod
Another weed that has healing powers (and makes a beautiful addition to your herbal garden) is goldenrod. It grows naturally in many areas, especially in wild fields left to their own devices. So you can expect to see them pop up if you don’t intentionally remove them.
Native Americans traditionally used goldenrod for respiratory issues. The beautiful yellow flowers are also great for adding to homemade recipes for diabetes management and wound care. You can even dry the goldenrod flowers and make a healing tea or oil infusion with them!
Feverfew
You might not be fully aware of this “weed,” but it is definitely something to keep in your yard! Some people consider it an herb and actually plant it on purpose, so if you see the weed crop up, consider keeping it. Feverfew is a type of perennial that is part of the daisy family of flowers. It is really great for helping with head pain like migraines, along with treating pain associated with arthritis.
Yarrow
Yarrow, which is sometimes called devil’s nettle, makes a wonderful addition to your herbal garden. If you’re lucky, it may even pop up by itself! It is very fragrant and when used in food, provides a natural peppery flavor. You can also extract oil from yarrow weed plants and use it as a repellant for insects in your home.
Since the times of Ancient Greece, yarrow has been used in poultices and ointments to treat wounds and speed healing. This is definitely one to keep around!
So there you have it! If you do end up with nuisance weeds that you really don’t want, consider using natural alternatives to toxic herbicides. Good old fashioned white vinegar is always a great, non-toxic option!
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