Bulrushes are one of the most important plants in the water garden. They have a water-purifying effect and are also decorative. But can you also use the grass-like plants in the kitchen? Find out below whether rushes are edible.
Are rushes edible?
Most rushes arenon-poisonousand are therefore basically edible. However, they haveno particular nutritional value, which is why it is not advisable to use the plant in the kitchen. Apart from that, chewing the stalks wears down your teeth over time.
Which parts of rush plants can you eat?
Theoretically, you could eat all parts of rush plants, as most species do not contain any toxins. However, eating the leaves or stalks is not recommended. These contain silicate deposits in order to be stable. Regularly chewing the stalks containing the silicates would only cause dental problems for us humans. In addition, our body cannot obtain energy from the stalks. This also applies to the flowers.
Therootsand especially theseeds of rushes provide at least some energy. Nevertheless, their added value for our bodies is relatively low.
How to use the edible plant parts of rushes?
You could integrate the roots intoSaladsand the seeds intoMuesliand the like. In order to absorb the energy from the seeds, you would first have to crush themOtherwise they would be excreted as a whole without having any benefit for the body.
What do the edible plant parts of rushes taste like?
The roots of rushes often tasteslightly sweet. Rush seeds are most reminiscent ofOatmeal, but some are also completelytasteless.
Tip
Bulrushes – maybe something tasty for the farm?
Various grazing animals, such as goats and donkeys, as well as certain robust breeds, eat rushes relatively well. Anyone who has a farm with the animals mentioned can definitely make it happy by planting rushes.