From the Spring Foraging Cookbook: Wild Strawberry and Wintercress

 

Wild Strawberry

This is our first spring fruit, but the leaves are useful too.  The modern strawberry is large, firm and juicy.  It is a marvel of plant breeding!  Wild Strawberries are smaller and less sweet, but just as delicious.  Wild Strawberries are perennial and some varieties give you a few berries per plant from spring through fall.  The “improved” strawberry that is farm raised gives a large flush of fruit around the beginning of May.  I grow some heirloom varieties of strawberries that are larger than the wild version, but give fruit throughout warm weather – the flavor is excellent!  Still, Wild Strawberries are a real treat.  The only look-alike is not poisonous but just doesn’t have any flavor.  You can enjoy Wild Strawberries fresh, out of hand.  But, they are better cooked with some sugar and lemon juice to make preserves or jam… what is better on a hot, buttered biscuit?  You can toss in a little Mint or Basil, or even black pepper, for a more complex flavor.  A few violet blossoms (etc) would also be nice.  Wild strawberries never seem to come in enough quantity to make wine, but strawberry wine is WONDERFUL!  You might try adding a few to your Dandelion wine.  Tender, spring leaves could be added to a salad, but they are most often used to make a tea that is both tasty and tangy, but is also good for sore throats and diarrhea.

Wintercress

Wintercress is so much like wild Mustard in texture and flavor, that were it not for the shape of the leaves, they would be very difficult to tell apart.  The flowers are also similar in appearance.  The two plants sprout and bloom at about the same time.  I just gather them together.  I don’t worry about what is Mustard and what is Wintercress.  They go in the same bag and I cook them together.  Both are very sharp eaten raw and a little tough.  Cooked in fat, salted and served with hot pepper vinegar, they are IDEAL!

Both plants also make excellent pickled greens.  Make these just as you would sauerkraut, but leave the leaves whole.  This is a real delicacy and pickled mustard greens are sold in Asian markets.  They are good as a small side dish, along with a heavier meal, but also very good in soups.  If you like Chinese “hot and sour” soup, try tossing a few of these pickled greens in, instead of adding vinegar.  If you like sweet and sour sauces, do the same.  A very good way to use them is with a pork roast.  The traditional, German sauerbraten uses vinegar and crushed ginger snap cookies (or similar flavors) to give roasted pork a unique flavor.  Pickled greens or sauerkraut is even better, to my taste.  I like to cook both pork roasts and sausages this way.  But, instead of cookies, I cover the meat with kraut or pickled veggies, toss in some cinnamon, ginger, cloves, coriander and mustard seed, a handful of raisins and a glass or two of low-acid wine or beer.  I like red wine or dark beer with the roast and white wine or a pilsner style beer with sausage.  Either way, it is fantastic with potato salad!

This article is an excerpt from

The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54

Also, I am back on Youtube. Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902 Judson Carroll - YouTube

Read about my other new books:

Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

A Daily Catholic Devotional Reflections on the Daily Mass readings July-December, 2025
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/12/a-daily-catholic-devotional-reflections.html

Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK

and

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide

Read about Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6: by Judson Carroll


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:

Judson Carroll, Master Herbalist

Herbal Medicine

Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB



Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog:

https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube

Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I’m just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won’t even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have “traditionally been used for.” I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don’t even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever. 

Show 293: Surviving Hard Times Stress, Anxiety, Sleep, Muscle Pains & Strains

 

Listen to "Show 293: Surviving Hard Times Stress, Anxiety, Sleep, Muscle Pains & Strains" on Spreaker.

Steve and I discuss a large variety of herbs.

Herbs that Heal
(Catholic) Home Remedies to Forage and Grow
by Judson Carroll, Stephen Cunningham
https://sophiainstitute.com/product/herbs-that-heal/?oid=853&affid=281


Also, I am back on Youtube Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902   Judson Carroll - YouTube

Baby Quit Your Low Down Ways
I show you how to play Blind Boy Fuller's "Baby Quit Your Low Down Ways" on guitar, with a little Sonny Tery influenced "Whoopin'" on the harmonica. I had A LOT of fun playing this one, and I hope you will too!
https://youtu.be/ecCo9lu9DkQ


Email: judson@judsoncarroll.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support


Read about The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54


Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:
https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/


Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB


Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Also available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Podcast:  https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7QS6b0lQqEclaO9AB-kOkkvlHr4tqAbs

From the Spring Foraging Cookbook: Wild Onions and Garlic

Wild Onions and Garlic

The same rule applies to these plants as with Ramps.  If it looks like an allium AND smells like an allium, it is an allium.  If it looks like an allium but does not smell like garlic, onions, etc., it is very likely poisonous.  The nice thing about these plants, especially wild onions, is that they are fairly ubiquitous.  They pop up in most lawns, old pastures, roadsides, etc.  Always be careful about harvesting from roadsides though, as a lot of nasty stuff like petro chemicals runs off of roads when it rains and can contaminate the plants that grow near them.  I never hesitate to harvest along quiet country roads that see little traffic, especially dirt and gravel roads.  Unfortunately, unpaved roads are becoming a thing of the past.  Pavement means run-off.  Wild Onions and Garlic have excellent flavor.  Generally, they are a bit stronger than garden varieties, and a little tougher.  But, their flavor, abundance and convenience certainly makes up for that.  Use these plants just as you would any other allium – salads, soups, cooked meats, fish, eggs, cheese, etc.  I often use the tops along with or in place of chives.

Wild Allium “boursin”

Boursin is a delicious, tangy, spreadable herbed or heavily peppered cheese.  As far as I know, it is generally made with goat cheese, like chevre.  But, really you could make a similar cheese with a fresh, farmhouse style or cottage cheese, ricotta, soft sheep milk cheese, cream cheese, etc. Finely grated medium-hard cheese like blue, cheddar or Swiss (etc.) would be fine, but you will need to mix in a little cream cheese to bring it together into a spread…. And, if you did that, you could make a cheese ball by rolling it in chopped herbs, nuts and bacon… which is probably even better than the recipe below! 

Ingredients:

Chevre

Finely chopped wild Onion, Garlic, Ramps, Chives (etc.)

Finely chopped herbs, to taste – I would always use parsley, at the very least.  Any aromatic,  savory herb/s would be fine.

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional cayenne or a dash of hot sauce – I like it, but it is not traditional.

 Simply blend it all together with a spoon.  Let the flavors come together overnight in the fridge.  Serve on crackers, toast, top a steak, etc.  If serving with meat or smoked seafood like oysters, clams or fish, I think a dash or two of Worcestershire sauce added to the cheese spread is perfect.  You can add a spoonful or two of this to and omelet, steamed/sauteed veggies, hot, cooked pasta or an Alfredo sauce… put some on a pizza… top a burger, etc.  This wonderful blending of herbs and cheese dates back at least to ancient Greece, as it was described by Pliny the Elder as a “farmer’s breakfast.”  When I grew up on the farm, breakfast was bacon, sausage, eggs, grits, biscuits, etc.  Farmers need a good, calorie dense breakfast! 

 

This article is an excerpt from

The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54

Also, I am back on Youtube. Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902 Judson Carroll - YouTube

Read about my other new books:

Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

A Daily Catholic Devotional Reflections on the Daily Mass readings July-December, 2025
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/12/a-daily-catholic-devotional-reflections.html

Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK

and

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide

Read about Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6: by Judson Carroll


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:

Judson Carroll, Master Herbalist

Herbal Medicine

Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB



Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog:

https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube

Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I’m just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won’t even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have “traditionally been used for.” I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don’t even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever. 

Show 292: Tobacco

Listen to "Show 292: Tobacco" on Spreaker.

By special request, I discuss the medicinal properties of tobacco, most of which are topical.  Tobacco is a powerful herb that can be both useful and very toxic. Care and common sense must be exercised.  And, while I do not advocate its recreational use, it is by no means a bad or evil plant.  God made everything and declared it "good." While anything may be misused, nothing in nature should be demonized because of irresponsible or mis-use.

Herbs that Heal
(Catholic) Home Remedies to Forage and Grow
by Judson Carroll, Stephen Cunningham
https://sophiainstitute.com/product/herbs-that-heal/?oid=853&affid=281


Also, I am back on Youtube Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902   Judson Carroll - YouTube

Tune of the week:
I Ain't Got Nobody on guitar
I show you how to play a classic early jazz tune that has been a favorite at least since 1914! Emmett Miller had a hit with it in the 1920s, and Bob Wills in the 1930s, Louis Prima in the 1950s, David Lee Roth in the 1980s... and countless others. It has a great rhythm, which I enhance with some western swing style chords for a moving bass line. Then, I teach you a fingerstyle solo/break and give you some ideas to turn this tune into a real showstopper... this one is pure fun!!
https://youtu.be/b4Qu2yGuJAc


Email: judson@judsoncarroll.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support


Read about The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54


Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:
https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/


Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB


Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Also available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Podcast:  https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7QS6b0lQqEclaO9AB-kOkkvlHr4tqAbs

From the Spring Forging Cookbook: Wild Grapes and Wild Lettuce

 

Wild Grapes

 All grapes are delicious for eating out of hand, made into preserves and jelly and, of course, wine.  But, grapes are a summer/fall fruit.  In the spring, the leaves are tasty and nutritious.  Most folks only associate dolmades or stuffed grape leaves with Greek food and their regional grapes.  But all grapes and even our native native wild grapes, which are different from the vinifera grapes of Europe, may be used and are very good.  I really love them!  Pick a reasonable quantity, wash them and briefly boil. Place a mixture of ground meat, rice, herbs, garlic, salt and pepper on each and roll them up to hold the filling inside – don’t over fill.  Steam them using water mixed with a glass of white wine, lemon and butter.  Lamb is the traditional meat for filling, but you can use any meat you like, and even fish.  I like game, especially.

Another great use for Wild Grape leaves is to include them with any fermented pickled vegetable, especially cucumbers.  Grape leaves have tannin.  They only add a little flavor to the pickles.  But, the tannin in the leaves helps keep veggies crisp when pickled.  Oak leaves also work, as will a little black tea.  But, my favorite is Grape Leaves, because they are also very good pickled.... pickled oak leaves really are not.

 

 

Wild Lettuce and Prickly Lettuce

These “common weeds” are actually the ancestors of our salad lettuces.  If you have ever tasted one raw, that will shock you.  Not only are they very bitter, but often tough, and sometimes prickly.  They grow into tall, upright stalks instead of bunching heads of cultivated lettuce!  As with corn, we should rightly be amazed at the thousands of years of plant breeding that enabled our ancestors to provide such delicious garden vegetables for us today.  For most folks in our era, the Wild Lettuces are merely weeds to be eradicated.  You will often see them growing by roads, in old fields and disturbed areas.  Herbalists, though, treasure the plants as a sedative and bitter herb – for about 50% of people, the milky sap of Wild lettuce acts with a mild opium-like effect, and bitter herbs aid digestion and liver health.  For the forager, it is the leaves we value.  This is likely not a salad green for most folks, though… although, it can be used in salads.  For salads, select the most tender leaves that are not prickly, and taste a couple to see if they are not too bitter and not too tough.  If you enjoy bitter Dandelion and other raw greens, as I do, you may find a new, but familiar delicacy in these plants.  Otherwise, they benefit from cooking.  Preparing a wilted Wild or Prickly Lettuce salad, in bacon grease, topped with vinegar would please most.  Cooking will make the Wild Lettuce more tender and palatable and soften the prickles of Prickly Lettuce so that they will not be noticed.  I usually just toss them in with Dandelion, Wild mustard, Docks, etc. as a potherb.  But, in France, especially, lettuce soups are often enjoyed made with chicken broth.  Making soup is an excellent way to use a lot of either wild or cultivated lettuce – it is always a shame to waste food, after all – and gain a lot of nutrition.  Don’t be surprised though it it makes you a bit sleepy or relaxed...

 

This article is an excerpt from

The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54

Also, I am back on Youtube. Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902 Judson Carroll - YouTube

Read about my other new books:

Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

A Daily Catholic Devotional Reflections on the Daily Mass readings July-December, 2025
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/12/a-daily-catholic-devotional-reflections.html

Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK

and

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide

Read about Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6: by Judson Carroll


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:

Judson Carroll, Master Herbalist

Herbal Medicine

Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB



Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog:

https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube

Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I’m just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won’t even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have “traditionally been used for.” I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don’t even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever. 

Show 291: Surviving Hard Times_ Natural Fertilizers & Allergies_ Cough & Headaches

 

Listen to "Show 291: Surviving Hard Times_ Natural Fertilizers & Allergies_ Cough & Headaches" on Spreaker.

Steve and I discuss herbs for allergies, and natural fertilizers that you can make at home.  We also get into soil remediation and all kinds of stuff!

Herbs that Heal
(Catholic) Home Remedies to Forage and Grow
by Judson Carroll, Stephen Cunningham
https://sophiainstitute.com/product/herbs-that-heal/?oid=853&affid=281


Also, I am back on Youtube Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902   Judson Carroll - YouTube

Tune of the week:
I Shall Not Be Moved on guitar
I show you how to play Mississippi John Hurt's version of the old gospel tune, "I Shall Not Be Moved". This is the perfect song for a Sunday afternoon. It brings back a lot of memories for me.
https://youtu.be/pbzVdXblpWY?si=p5_Gl4IL08fqBlIc





Email: judson@judsoncarroll.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support



Read about The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54


Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:
https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/


Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB


Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Also available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Podcast:  https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7QS6b0lQqEclaO9AB-kOkkvlHr4tqAbs

From the Spring Foraging Cookbook: Water Lily and Wild Geranium

Water Lily

There are a few varieties of Water Lily, and you will likely find one in a pond near you.  The root lies at the bottom, just under the mud and makes a nice tuber for eating if you can get to it just before the water freezes or thaws.  While it is good, it is not worth trying for when the water is frozen.  In spring, the new plant will form on the surface of the water and slowly unfold into the common aquatic plant we recognize.  While the leave are tender, it is a very good one to forage.  The leaves and unopened flower buds make a nice cooked vegetable using the steam/saute method.  Use Lotus and Water Shield similarly.

This plant is most popular in Asian cuisine, but I have found that the root just roasted with onions, olive oil, salt and.... you guessed it, parsley, is quite good.  Mainly it is the bulb that is used in Stir fries and such.  It is crunchy and mildly flavored.  Slice it and toss it in a wok with green onions, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts and those little canned ears of corn, along with any meat or seafood you like.  Fermented black beans, soy sauce, a little chicken broth, sesame oil and a splash of either Chinese cooking wine or sherry will make a surprisingly good dish.  As I have stated before, I am no expert on Asian cooking, but this combo really works for my taste.  I have seen recipes for congee, basically a rice porridge using lotus, as well.  I have not tried that yet, but sometimes when I am camping out, fishing, I make a congee style dish with fish heads and bones, small fish, a few crawfish, etc. and whatever wild veggies I can find.  It is good, although mild to American tastes.  I have discussed such one pot meals with friends who are more familiar with traditional Japanese food, and they think such combos are fantastic.  In fact, several Japanese and Chinese folks say that I have naturally Asian tastes... maybe.  All I can say is I never thought I would enjoy eating fish heads and rice for breakfast, but I really do!

Wild Geranium

 (or Aliflaria)

Generally, the European version is called Crane’s Bill due to the shape of its seed pod.  The one native to my region is, essentially, identical.  All geraniums are quite tasty, but also astringent.  Medicinally, they are one of the best, mild herbs for treating diarrhea.  I enjoy the tender, spring leaves in salads and more mature greens as a potherb.  But, I think it is best to eat this plant in moderation as it could be a bit “griping” in large amounts.  Geranium makes a very nice tea, as well.  The true Aliflaria plant, or Stork’s Bill is differentiated from Geraniums, but is very similar in use but perhaps less astringent.

I really like this one either as a topping for deviled eggs or in egg salad.  This sourness brightens up the egg mixtures, that can be a bit bland on their own.  For both dishes, boil a few eggs.  Don't over do it; just boil until they are done... not raw but not rubbery.  I would give you instructions for boiling eggs, but how long you boil your eggs depends entirely upon your elevation.  Books that say, “boil an egg for _____ minutes” rarely take this into consideration.  Eggs boil much faster at higher elevations. Also, for both, I will include some chopped chives or wild onions/garlic and... yep, parsley.  If you haven't figured out by now, I add parsley to most everything that is not a dessert!  Some people like to tap the eggs before boiling to find which end has the air pocket, and pierce the shell with a thumbtack.  This will allow the sulfur gas to escape as the eggs boil.  That prevents the yolks from having a green layer and makes the eggs smell better.  But, I usually don't bother if I have good, fresh eggs.  So, crack and peel the shell off of your eggs when they are done and cooled – this is easiest under running tap water.

For deviled eggs, slice the eggs in half, lengthwise.  Scoop out the yolks and put them in a bowl.  Add just enough mayonnaise, mustard and pickle juice (or vinegar) to bring them together into a paste.  Mix in just a little sweet pickle relish and/or chopped Wild Geranium.  You can use as much Geranium as you like, but go light on the relish.  Salt and pepper to taste.  Scoop the mix up, a spoonful at a time and pack it into the hollows of the egg whites.  Serve with a dusting of paprika or cayenne over the yellows.

For egg salad, just mash up the whole boiled (peeled of course) eggs, whites and yellows together.  Mix in everything just as I said for deviled eggs. Serve this as a sandwich filling, on good, homemade bread.  I like to add a few leaves of another green to the sandwich – Cress, Dandelion or and any spinach or lettuce like green will be fine.  I like a few dashes of hot sauce, too.  I bake sourdough bread once a week, so this is a regular sandwich for me, especially with a nice slice of ham!

This article is an excerpt from

The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54

Also, I am back on Youtube. Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902 Judson Carroll - YouTube

Read about my other new books:

Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

A Daily Catholic Devotional Reflections on the Daily Mass readings July-December, 2025
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/12/a-daily-catholic-devotional-reflections.html

Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK

and

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide

Read about Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist’s Guide: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6: by Judson Carroll


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:

Judson Carroll, Master Herbalist

Herbal Medicine

Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist’s Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist’s Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB



Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog:

https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: Herbal Medicine 101 - YouTube

Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I’m just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won’t even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have “traditionally been used for.” I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don’t even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever.