It is probably known to every garden owner and walker, even if some may not know the name - the cuckoo flower. Light and fragrant, it blooms in spring. Sometimes it covers entire meadows, but unfortunately that is becoming increasingly rare.
The cuckoo flower blooms in spring in white, light pink or purple
Look
With delicate flowers in white, light pink or pale violet, many a meadow appears like a fragrant sea when the cuckoo flower is in bloom. Not only the human eye but also numerous insects appreciate this, because the flowers are very rich in nutritious nectar. The leaves of the meadow smock are quite thin and arranged in a rosette-like manner. The flowers sit on long stems and close when it rains.
location
The meadowfoam prefers to grow on damp meadows or in riparian forests. It can be found across Europe, but is also found in Asia and North America. In the meantime it is becoming increasingly rare because there are hardly any wet meadows left. In some federal states it is even on the red list.
healing effect
Like many other wild herbs, meadowfoam has healing powers. Thanks to its valuable ingredients, such as mustard oil glycosides, bitter substances, vitamin C and essential oils, it alleviates many different complaints, but of course does not replace a visit to the doctor or necessary medication.
With meadowfoam you can alleviate your spring tiredness and stimulate your metabolism. It also helps with diabetes and bronchitis, has an antibacterial and digestive effect. However, if consumed in large amounts, it can irritate the kidneys and stomach.
use
You don't necessarily have to use meadowfoam herb for medicinal purposes, it also does a good job in the kitchen. Its slightly hot taste gives soups and sauces a piquant flavor. The leaves of the meadow smock also taste great in fresh salads or simply on a sandwich. The blossoms serve as an edible decoration on your next party buffet or adorn your ice cubes in the future.
The essentials in brief:
- rare weed
- edible
- consume only in small amounts
- for seasoning soups and sauces
- in salads or on buttered bread
- white, pink or pale lilac flowers
- loves damp meadows and alluvial forests
- blooms from April to June
- Blossoms as edible decoration or for ice cubes
tips
The different types of bittercress are similar in effect and taste. Experiment!