It is probably known to every garden owner and walker, even if some people may not know the name - the meadowfoam. It blooms lightly and fragrantly in spring. Sometimes it covers entire meadows, but unfortunately this is becoming increasingly rare.
What does a meadowfoam profile look like?
The meadowfoam is a rare wild herb with white, pink or pale purple flowers that blooms from April to June. It prefers to grow in moist meadows and riparian forests. The plant can be used both in the kitchen and to relieve various ailments, but only in small quantities.
Appearance
With delicate flowers in white, light pink or pale purple, many meadows appear like a fragrant sea when the meadowfoam is in bloom. Not only the human eye but also numerous insects appreciate this because the flowers are very rich in nutritious nectar. The leaves of the meadowfoam are quite thin and arranged like a rosette. The flowers sit on long stems and close when it rains.
Location
The meadowfoam prefers to grow in moist meadows or riparian forests. It can be found throughout Europe, but also occurs in Asia and North America. It is now becoming increasingly rare as there are hardly any wet meadows left. In some federal states it is even on the red list.
Healing effects
Like many other wild herbs, meadowfoam also has healing powers. Thanks to its valuable ingredients, such as mustard oil glycosides, bitter substances, vitamin C and essential oils, it relieves many different complaints, but of course does not replace a visit to the doctor or any necessary medication.
With meadowfoam you can relieve your spring fatigue and stimulate your metabolism. It also helps with diabetes and bronchitis, has an antibacterial and digestive effect. However, if large quantities are consumed, it can cause unpleasant irritation to the kidneys and stomach.
Usage
You don't necessarily have to use the meadowfoam herb for medicinal purposes; it also works well in the kitchen. Its slightly spicy taste gives soups and sauces a spicy flavor. The leaves of the meadowfoam also taste great in fresh salads or simply on a sandwich. The flowers serve as an edible decoration at your next party buffet or decorate your ice cubes in the future.
The most important things in brief:
- rare wild herb
- edible
- only consume in small quantities
- for seasoning soups and sauces
- in salads or on buttered bread
- flowering white, pink or pale purple
- loves moist meadows and riparian forests
- blooms from April to June
- Flowers as edible decoration or for ice cubes
Tip
The different types of foam herb are similar in effect and taste. Experiment!
