Bidens Alba is a versatile plant that can be used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The leaves and flowers of the plant have a mild, slightly bitter flavor and are used as a seasoning in soups and stews, or as a tea. The leaves can also be used fresh or dried as a garnish. The plant’s high levels of antioxidants and vitamins make it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Preparation:
Wash the leaves and flowers thoroughly and dry a bit before preparing. Chop or crush then added to soups, stews, or stir-fries. Dry the leaves and flowers and use them to make tea by steeping them in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Enjoy this earthy green tea plain or with honey, lemon, or other herbs.
Medicinal Uses:
Bidens Alba has a long history of medicinal use, with the leaves and flowers traditionally used to treat wounds, skin diseases, and digestive problems. You can use this versatile plant as a laxative, diuretic, and to treat fever and malaria. The plant’s high levels of antioxidants and vitamins make it a valuable resource for treating a variety of conditions.
Many people historically and today use it to treat respiratory problems. These include coughs, colds, and to soothe skin irritations and wounds. Steep the leaves and flowers in hot water to make a tea or applied directly to the skin. Be sure to use with caution especially the first time, as it can cause skin irritation in some people.
This amazing plant is a valuable resource for botanists and herbalists alike as well as foragers. With its edible and medicinal uses, this plant is a versatile addition to any foragers collection. Bidens Alba is a useful and nutritious plant you can use in cooking or as a natural remedy. It is considered by many as an essential for any botanical garden or personal collection. Just ensure that if you harvest it or any other edible plant that you correctly identify it using a local expert or field guide.
