Since 500 BC, an Edible and Medicinal "weed": Curly Dock!

Recorded in Greek and Roman writings this eurasian weed was used for food and medicine. Known as Curly Dock, or Sour Dock, or Yellow Dock, Rumex crispus, non-native to the USA is now found in all 50 states. It can be recognized by its distinctly curly edged leaves and its numerous 3 sided seeds. While considered invasive especially in plowed fields and gardens it does not spread into natural areas where other plants are established. In Virginia it is most commonly found in waste places, roadsides and edges of trails. It is however a prolific seed producer like many invasive plants. A single plant can produced upwards of 50,000 seeds. These seeds, in turn, can stay viable in soil for over 50 years. The leaves may have a sour taste to them because of oxalic acid. Oxalates can be found in cultivated vegetables such as rhubarb, beets and other leafy greens. Oxalates can be toxic if consumed in large quantities as they can interfere with calcium and iron uptake. While Curly dock is considered an edible for humans, it can be easily over grazed by cattle or sheep and cause harmful reactions though it is rarely fatal. Farmers seek to remove it from pastures. The leaves are rich in vitamin A and C. The leaves and stems can be used in salads and stews. The chaff can be removed from seeds and used as a flour substitute or addative. Medicinally, a decoction can be made from the yellow root to treat many differen ailments and was used as a diuretic or laxative. The root contains pharmecutically active anthraquinones. This weed is commonly overlooked, pulled from the soil or mowed down with a string trimmer but it seems worthy of our regard. Many so-called weeds, have fascinating ethnobotanical histories. If you like learning about plants and animals right outside your door my channel covers all things nature. If you want to learn more about nature and natural history, this is the channel to subscribe to!