Wild herbs for an alkaline diet
Wild herbs are not only delicious, they are also considered extremely healthy. They are particularly suitable for alkaline fasting, as they have an alkalising effect and can therefore balance the body's acid-base balance. Wild herbs such as nettle, dandelion, goutweed and ribwort plantain also contain many nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements. They can be consumed as a tea, smoothie or added to salads and dishes.
Dandelion
Wild herbs are a real treat for the body, especially in spring, as they stimulate the metabolism and promote detoxification. Dandelion, for example, is not just a weed, but also a valuable plant for our health! The yellow flowers and green leaves of the dandelion can be used as a medicinal plant for a variety of ailments. The roots of the dandelion contain bitter substances that stimulate digestion and activate the metabolism. Dandelion can also help with liver and bile problems.
Dandelion leaves are also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium and iron. They can be eaten as a tea or salad and help to strengthen the immune system and detoxify the body. But be careful - if you want to harvest dandelions in your own garden, you should make sure that they do not grow near busy roads or polluted areas. Dandelions grown organically or in meadows and fields that have not been treated with pesticides are best.
Stinging nettle
Stinging nettle is also a plant that is often regarded as a weed. However, it is one of the oldest medicinal plants known to mankind and is highly valued in naturopathy. Nettles also contain numerous valuable ingredients such as vitamin C, iron and calcium. Regular consumption of nettles can strengthen the immune system, lower blood pressure and stimulate the metabolism. It can also provide relief for complaints such as rheumatism, gout or arthritis.
Nettles can be used in many different ways. For example, as tea, juice or as a vegetable. The dried leaves and stems of the nettle are used for the tea. Simply pour hot water over a teaspoon of nettle leaves and leave to infuse for 5-10 minutes. Nettle juice is extracted from the fresh parts of the plant and can be used as a cure to detoxify and strengthen the body. In the kitchen, nettles can be used like spinach. Briefly blanch the fresh leaves and use as a garnish or in soups and stews.
Goutweed
Goutweed is a wild herb that can also be used as a medicinal herb. Goutweed is rich in vitamin C and iron and, like dandelion and nettle, can help to strengthen the immune system; and it has anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects that can be helpful in the treatment of kidney disease, urinary tract infections and gout. Goutweed can be eaten raw in salads or used in soups and stews. It can also be drunk as a tea. However, avoid eating goutweed if you are pregnant or taking blood-thinning medication.
Ribwort plantain
Ribwort plantain has been used in naturopathy for centuries. The leaves of ribwort plantain contain many valuable ingredients such as mucilage, tannins, iridoids and flavonoids. These make ribwort plantain a true all-rounder in the medicine cabinet. For example, it can provide relief from coughs and hoarseness as it has an expectorant effect.
Ribwort plantain can also help with insect bites and minor burns, as it has an anti-inflammatory effect. For external use, the leaves of ribwort plantain can be crushed and applied to the affected area or used as a compress. Ribwort plantain can also be used as a tea or tincture for various ailments.
Taste the wild herbs first and think about what they might harmonise well with - they often taste quite bitter, but in smaller quantities they add a spicy note to a salad or as a topping on cooked vegetables. Have fun experimenting - it doesn't cost anything, but try it 🙂
