Introduction
Understanding which plants are edible and which are toxic is crucial for survival in the wild. This guide focuses on the Anacardiaceae family, which includes both toxic and edible plants. While Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron spp.) is well-known for causing severe skin reactions, Sumac (Rhus spp.) offers a valuable wild edible. This article will teach you how to identify and use these plants safely.
Identifying Edible and Poisonous Plants
Edible Plants
Sumac
Sumac is a key wild edible, with its berries used to make Sumac-ade, a sour beverage similar to lemonade. To prepare Sumac-ade, soak red berries in cold water for about 20 minutes, strain the mixture using a strainer, and add a sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Avoid consuming the hairy fruit hairs, which can irritate the throat. Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) has hairy fruit clusters and tender young shoots that are edible as vegetables. The shoots can be eaten raw or cooked.
Other Edible Plants
- Barbary Fig: The green fruit with yellow pulp is edible raw. Avoid the red/orange fruit, which is toxic.
- Cattail: Young shoots (spring) and roots (boiled) are edible. Mature flower stalks can be ground into flour.
- Chickweed: Edible leaves and stems. It tastes like wheat. Avoid if plants appear wilted.
- Dandelion: Leaves (raw or cooked), roots (roasted as a coffee substitute), and flowers (used in wine).
- Purslane: Tart, lemony flavor. All parts are edible raw or cooked.
- Wild Onion: Bulbs and leaves are edible. They have a strong garlic scent.
Poisonous Plants
Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron spp.) causes severe skin reactions but has medicinal uses for rashes and fevers. It has three leaflets and red berries and grows in bogs. Poison Sumac (Rhus vernix) has white berries and is distinct from Poison Ivy. If you come into contact with Poison Ivy, wash your skin immediately with soap and water. Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching.
Other Poisonous Plants
- Poison Oak: Similar to Poison Ivy. Same treatment applies.
- Poison Sumac: Contact causes severe rash. Wash skin and use antihistamines.
- Water Hemlock: Highly toxic. Identifiable by hollow stems with purple spots. No cure for poisoning; seek immediate medical help.
- Poisonous Lookalikes: Water Parsnip (non-toxic) resembles Water Hemlock but has solid stems and no purple spots. Nightshade berries are toxic; avoid any unidentifiable berries.
Medicinal Uses
Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)
A first-aid remedy for Poison Ivy rashes. Apply crushed leaves directly to the skin.
Sumac
Astringents treat diarrhea and skin inflammation. Native American tribes used Poison Ivy internally as an emetic and for fevers.
Bushcraft Applications
- Sumac Wood: Burns easily and can be hollowed for baskets.
- Staghorn Sumac Fruits: Used to sedate bees via smoke.
- Stinkbush Sumac (Rhus trilobata) Leaves: Act as insect repellents.
Safety Note
Harvest Sumac berries at peak ripeness for optimal flavor. Avoid overconsumption due to astringency. Always ensure you have a field guide and first aid kit when foraging. Practice caution when handling any plant.
Conclusion
Identifying and using wild edibles from the Poison Ivy family requires careful attention to detail. By understanding the differences between edible and poisonous plants, you can safely enjoy the benefits of foraging while avoiding harmful reactions. Remember to always carry a field guide and first aid kit, and practice caution when handling any plant.