Milkweed is not only the host plant of the monarch caterpillar, it is also an edible plant with a long history of medicinal uses by humans. In fact, the Native Americans boiled and steeped the young shoots of the milkweed plant to create a medicinal tea to ward off a variety of illnesses. Always consult a health care provider before trying a new therapy or altering your diet, especially if you have a health condition.
What Is Milkweed?
Milkweed is a perennial herb that grows throughout the U.S. in both wet and dry locations. Mature milkweed specimens grow to 6 feet in height, producing broad leaves that measure between 4 and 10 inches long. Pinkish-purple clustered flowers adorn the milkweed plant when in bloom, followed up by green pods that turn brown before bursting and exposing fluffy seeds in late summer. The milkweed seeds fall to the ground, where they lie dormant throughout the winter and germinate the following spring.
Stem Preparation
Young milkweed stems, no more than 6 inches in height, are the safest for eating. According to Brandeis University, milkweed requires boiling on high heat to remove toxicity and to remove bitterness. A minimum of one, preferably three, changes of water are necessary to ensure the elimination of all toxins within the sap, best achieved by bringing the milkweed to a boil, emptying the pot, rinsing the milkweed and refilling the pot with new water to boil again, and repeating the process.
Flowers, Pods and Leaves
The flowers, seedpods and leaves of the milkweed plant are also edible. These milkweed parts do not require boiling to the same extent as the stems. In fact, Brandeis University explains that preparing the milkweed leaves, flowers and seedpods just as you would spinach, okra and broccoli is sufficient. Boiling milkweed flowers on the stove for one minute and then deep-frying the boiled blooms makes an edible botanical fritter treat.
Warnings
Never eat milkweed in its raw state. The Ohio State University explains that even though the amount of toxins within the milky white sap of the plant is minimal, if you eat large amounts of raw milkweed, it can make you sick. It is also important to note that some people are sensitive to the sap. If you have this sensitivity and the sap touches your skin, it may cause a skin rash called contact dermatitis. Any type of reaction that develops as a result of eating or touching milkweed requires immediate medical attention.
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