Edible Plants at Camp Ockanickon:
- First, it’s important that we respect the forest ecosystem by not taking plants or over-harvesting, and not eating anything found outside unless an informed adult confirms it’s safe.
- Wintergreen has leaves that can be eaten raw or steeped into a tea. It has chemical properties which are similar to aspirin!
- Pine needles can also be steeped to make a vitamin-rich tea. The other parts of the tree, such as the bark and the seeds, can be made into a flour that can be substituted for wheat flour in baking.
- The root bark of the sassafras tree is the main flavor component in root beer! It’s said to help with digestive issues.
- Greenbriar shoots can be cooked or chopped up and eaten raw in a salad.