Many people often overlook what the Earth has provided for us. I am talking about all of the plants that surround us. I have always believed that to become a better woodsman or woodswoman, one must open themselves up to the world of plants. I’m not sure if it is possible to learn them all, but we can always try. There are three plants that grow commonly in the Southern Appalachains and have an amazing spectrum of uses that everyone should know.
The first plant to discuss is the White Pine Tree, sometimes refered to as Mountain Pine. This tree is one of the most helpful plants in the mountains, and lucky for us, it grows in great quantities up and down the Appalachian Mountains. Because it is a type of pine, the inner bark of the tree is edible, and in my opinion, it is one of the better tasting pines. The inner bark provides iron, carbohydrates, good fat and protein. The needles can be used to make a tea that promotes general healing. The inner bark makes a good bandage because it keeps a wound clean and promotes healing. The last important thing about White Pine is that fire can be made with this wood. When I say making fire, I am talking about using it to make a fire by friction. It is not a good wood for beginners, but it works well in a pinch.
Sassafras is a tree that grows high up on mountains. The Native Americans called Sassafras Green Twig because the ends of the branches sometimes look green. A tea can be made out of the root. This tea helps to thin blood, boost your immune system to help cure food poisoning. In addition to its medicinal qualities, the tea is delicious. Shavings and leaves from the tree can help keep bugs away. The new-growth leaves are edible, but they are an acquired taste. If the leaves are gathered and dried, they make a marvelous soup thickener. Sassafras can also be used to make fire, but it is very challenging. I have only made a coal out of this tree one time; so if you have the choice, use another wood.
Most of us that spend time in the Appalachians have had run-ins with Stinging Nettle. Well, although it does leave you burning and itching sometimes, it can also be very useful. The plant is edible if the leaves are boiled in water. The dried fibers from the stock can be used to make strong cordage. Cordage is a way of twisting fibers to make useable rope. A word of warning: when gathering this plant, be careful not to let the bottoms of the leaves brush up against you, as this will cause a burning itch that lasts at least seven minutes.
Most of these plants must be gathered when they are green and alive. The gathering must be done carefully both for your sake and that of the plants. Try to use common sense when harvesting a plant and don’t cause any unnecessary harm. For example, if you need a branch from a tree, don’t cut down the entire tree. Just take what you need. Extreme caution must be taken when consuming any plant in the wild.
These plants can be added to or start the list of useful plants. Now that you have a start, go and get out there.
