Types of Weeds and their Uses:
Amaranth:
(also known as pigweed) Amaranth are consumed as a leaf vegetable which can be cooked, and it’s seeds can be harvested and cooked the same as quinoa. The root of mature amaranth is a popular vegetable. It is white and usually cooked with tomatoes or tamarind gravy. It is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, K, B6, calcium and iron, and the seeds are a good source of protein.
Dandelions:
Dandelions are a type of weed with many useful purposes. They are a food source for insects and certain birds, humans eat young dandelion leaves and drink dandelion tea and dandelion wine. The Native Americans used dandelions to treat certain ailments, they are a source of vitamin A and C, calcium, iron and fiber.
Dollarweed:
(also known as pennywort) is an aquatic plant that thrives in a wet, sandy habitat. It is an edible weed that can be used in salads or as a pot herb.
Lamb’s Quarter:
(also known as goosefoot) The leaves of lamb’s quarter are added to lettuce salads or cooked and used as a replacement for spinach. Lamb’s quarter seeds are also edible. They are a good source of protein and vitamin A.
Purslane:
It may be eaten as a leaf vegetable, but the stems, leaves and flower buds are also edible. Purslane may be used fresh as salad, stir-fried or cooked as spinach is, or it also is suitable for soups and stews. It is a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Yellow Dock/Burdock:
The taproot of young burdock plants can be eaten as a root vegetable. It is a good source of dietary fiber and certain minerals, including calcium and potassium.
By: Archa Dave
