Field Copperleaf 💚

This plant grows abundantly outside where I live. I noticed it and wondered if it was edible in any way and a few glamour shots later, discovered the amazing benefits of consuming field copperleaf. This perennial, shrub like herbaceous plant remains largely uncultivated in North America. Often mistaken for nettle. This plant is in the euphorbiaceae family!! But interestingly does not produce the signature white sap when cut. Native to Brazil, it is anti-bacterial, anti-septic, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, can be a diuretic, but the use I found most amazing is the anti-spasmodic properties since I struggle with episodes of stomach muscle mishaps. It can also be used to treat various skin diseases and irritations, menstrual issues, vaginosis and more!! The entirety of the plant is used, Best taken as a tea before meals. The whitish tall and fluffy flower eventually turn pink / red and produce small capsule like fruit. Overall excellent for muscle relaxation

Purslane blew my mind

I noticed a small succulent looking plant growing out of one of my cactus and like any gardener does, classified it as 'other' or a weed in my specific type of plant! Untill I googled about what it could be, and found out that purslane has many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that make it recognized as a superfood in many parts of the world. Rich in vitamin C, A, beta - carotene, omega 3 - fatty acids, calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium! Excellent for tossing into salads. It's recommended to either cook lightly, leave it raw or cook the hell of out them to avoid an okra - like gooey texture that can generally be unpleasant. The only thing I'd say to watch out for when consuming purslane is due to it's oxalate content, especially the seeds, it may not be the most suitable for those who are prone to kidney stones. And the plant that may be mistaken for it, poison spurge, will leak a white sap when broken apart!

Purslane completely changed my view on the things the grow around me, in my garden and throughout the neighborhood. It has inspired me to really consider what is a 'weed' and what is actually just an unidentified source of healing, or nourishment.

Roselle Hibiscus from local food forest ❣️

Philodendron Ring O' Fire 🧡

Philodendron Ring O' Fire