Wild Edibles and The “Rewilding” Mindset
Garlic mustard, an invasive plant, can be chopped and eaten like spinach for surprising nutritional benefits.
Zack Rouda at Rewild Maine believes that even if nature doesn’t always appeal to everyone, nature is for everyone. Nature Links participants can relate to Zack’s belief in the power of nature to serve and heal us, and we’re so grateful that he’s joining us for a series of classes this spring. Rewild Maine is a non-profit organization based in Portland, Maine, that seeks to “deepen the connections between people, each other, and the Earth through land stewardship, education, and community.” Zack is joining us these days for a handful of classes about wild edibles, foraging, natural weaving, self-sufficiency, and nature connection. This week, Zack began his first class with us by focusing on wild edibles like Japanese knotweed and garlic mustard, two invasive plants that also happen to provide nutritional and medicinal benefits.
Japanese Knotweed is an invasive plant known for its resilience. Despite its notoriety as a troublesome weed, it offers notable medicinal benefits. Rich in resveratrol, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Japanese knotweed is used in traditional medicine to support cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and alleviate symptoms of Lyme disease. Additionally, it has been studied for its potential in managing metabolic conditions and protecting against certain types of cancer.
Japanese knotweed contains natural compounds that can alleviate the symptoms of Lyme disease.
Garlic mustard is an invasive herb known for its distinctive garlicky flavor and aroma. Despite its invasive nature, it offers notable nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins A and C, garlic mustard also contains minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Its leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, providing a nutritious addition to salads, pestos, and other dishes. Additionally, garlic mustard contains compounds with antioxidant properties, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Zack feels that these much-maligned plants represent an important lesson: rather than use harmful chemicals to destroy or contain invasive plants, why not benefit from them in ways that both reduce our footprint on the environment and prevent their spread? By promoting the recovery of ecosystems, the idea of “rewilding” seeks to create more resilient environments that can better support life and adapt to changing climatic conditions. It’s all about our mindset.
