Edible Weeds

A pharmacist and a dietitian discuss which health-boosting weeds should end up on your plate or in your mug rather than on the compost heap. Here are 8 edible garden weeds that are great for your health

Weeds are defined as wild, unwanted and unvalued – but while there’s no disputing their wildness, many people would definitely want them if they understood their true value. 

Many of the rapidly-growing green ‘pests’ actually boast a wealth of health benefits if consumed, because they contain useful bioactive compounds like polyphenols, vitamins, minerals, proteins and fibre.

“Today’s weeds were our ancestors’ medicine cabinet, “ explains Tea Advisory Panel dietitian Dr Carrie Ruxton. “From teas to soups and garnishes, they have a role in our diets – but take care to identify edible weeds properly, as some plants such as hemlock, deadly nightshade and foxgloves contain powerful toxins which can cause illness, and even kill.”

Here, Ruxton and pharmacist Roy Lamb, co-founder of Nasslor Healthdrinks which makes Emunity Nettle drinks, highlight 8 weeds that could be added to your superfood cupboard instead of your compost bin…

1. Nettle

This stinging scourge of bare flesh has been used over the centuries to make cloth, fishing nets, and even World War I German army uniforms when there was a shortage of cotton, says Lamb .

Benefits

Nettles contain essential amino acid levels comparable to chicken, and similar amounts of omega-3 to those found in spinach, says Lamb. Per serving, up to 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A, 50% of calcium, 20% of fibre and 12% of iron, can be provided by nettles, he explains.

Ruxton says: “A study of postmenopausal women found a preparation made from nettles reduced hot flashes and increased quality of life . Always pick them in the spring when they’re most nutritious, and discard the woody parts.”

How to use it

There are several ways to prepare nettles for consumption, advises Lamb. To render the sting harmless, drop them in a pot of boiling salted water for a few minutes, or they can be dried using a dehydrator, or soaked in water for a few days. After this, they can be converted into nettle pesto or soup, or as an infusion in tea.

2. Chamomile

In many areas, chamomile is considered a noxious weed to be eliminated, says Lamb, who also points out it’s one of the most popular ingredients in herbal teas.

Benefits

This common flower has long been championed as a way to ensure a good night’s sleep, but its fan-base is larger than just old wives, stresses Lamb. Scientific evidence suggests chamomile has a range of health benefits, as its flowers contain chemicals shown to be moderate antioxidants and antimicrobials. Additionally, studies indicate potent anti-inflammatory action and some cholesterol-lowering activities, he points out.

Ruxton adds: “Just one daily serving of chamomile tea improves sleep quality and control of blood sugar levels, according to a scientific review. Steeping the teabag for 15 minutes ensures optimal levels of the bioactive properties, including polyphenols and prebiotics.”

How to use it

Chamomile flowers can be washed, dried and used on their own, or as a blend, in herbal teas. For desserts, such as panna cotta, Chamomile also makes an attractive and healthy garnish, although Lamb warns it can cause allergic reactions, so take care, especially if you’re allergic to flowers like daisies.

3. Elderflower

Clumps of distinctive tall white elderflowers can be found throughout the UK countryside.

Benefits

Studies suggest elder is a rich source of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, which can be anti-pyretic (fever-reducing), diuretic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, says Lamb.

How to use it

Elderflower cordial dates back to Roman times, and many people make their own elderflower ‘champagne’. Lamb points out that dried elderflowers contain a lot less goodness than fresh.

4. Sheep’s sorrel

This perennial small flowering plant is commonly found growing in UK gardens.

Benefits

As a good source of vitamins C and E, sheep’s sorrel can contribute to a healthy immune system and glowing skin, says Lamb. It’s also a good source of antioxidants, he says.

How to use it

Sheep’s sorrel is best picked in summer or early autumn. It has a tart, lemony flavour and can be added to salads or stir-fries. However, Lamb says that because of its high levels of potassium oxalate, it should only be eaten in small amounts.

5. Lambsquarters/white goosefoot

This fast-growing weed is commonly found in UK gardens and the countryside.

Benefits

Raw lambsquarters has the highest amount of folate of any commonly found weed, says Lamb. It’s also rich in carotenoids, which can be converted into vitamin A to promote growth, immune function, and eye health. Lambsquarters also contains more than 10% of the recommended intake of iron and magnesium, as well as vitamins B6 (when steamed) and K, says Lamb.

How to use it

Lambsquarters can be eaten raw in salads, but if it’s steamed or sautéed you’ll extract maximum vitamin goodness, explains Lamb, who says it can be used as a spinach replacement in recipes. It needs washing thoroughly to get rid of the white powdery bloom.

6. Dandelion

Dandelions are everywhere in spring and summer, but as well as being an important nectar source for pollinators, they have many benefits for humans.

Benefits

Recent research has shown dandelion can reduce cholesterol, blood glucose levels, and inflammation, says Lamb. As a mild diuretic, it can also help with urinary tract infections or thrush.

Ruxton adds: “The diuretic properties of dandelion tea are much more than old wives’ tales. A clinical trial found a dandelion extract increased urine loss by an extra 200ml on average, so dandelion could be effective for bloating during the late menstrual cycle or post-menopause. Dandelion tea is also used to promote digestion.”

How to use it

All of the dandelion plant can be used in recipes, from petal-infused wine or honey to simply eating dandelion roots whole. WW