 |
Reed, Phragmites communis L. has edible
shoots. Find them in early spring as they pop up around last year's
bearded old growth. Peel off tough outer sheath of leaves.
Cook until tender. I like to chew the stalk and suck away the
tasty juices.
Mild analgesic effect. (click photo next) |
| Shoots can be darn near lethal if walking barefoot...Seed heads can
be harvested in late summer. Mix and cook with 7 and 12 grain
cereals.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine this herb is prepared in two ways: the fresh root is simmered in rice wine until wine is absorbed, resultant combination is dried, cut and used in decoction to treat liver and kidney problems (and problems related to these meridians, as well as irregular menstruation, insomnia, tinnitis, impaired hearing, diabetes, frequent urination and allergies. Method two: the root is steamed until black, cut, dried and used in decoction for unproven treatments of leukemia, kidney and liver disorders, constipation, diabetes, hepatitis, internal bleeding, arthritis, rheumatism. |
 |