To be stranded in the wilderness is probably one of the worst things that could happen to anyone. It’s easily conceivable that you’ll go around in circles looking for the nearest settlement, all the while running out of strength and food. But the wilderness isn’t so barren after all – we know plants and animals survive in it.
What if you find yourself stranded in the wilderness? The surrounding vegetation is the first thing that will probably catch your eye as your stomach growls in distress. But there are different types of plants out there – some will keep you alive and healthy, while some will send you straight to the hospital, or worse, your deathbed.
Before your mouth waters in anticipation for the greens that you can eat in the wild, it is best to familiarize yourself with the right kinds of plants to forage and the ones to avoid like the plague. If you see any of the following characteristics in a plant you’ve encountered, start walking in the opposite direction – these are common traits of toxic plants:
- Milky or discolored sap
- Spines, fine hairs, or thorns
- Beans, bulbs, or seeds inside pods
- Bitter or soapy taste
- Dill, carrot, parsnip, or parsley-like foliage
- “Almond” scent in the woody parts and leaves
- Grain heads with pink, purplish, or black spurs
- Three-leaved growth pattern
Many toxic plants will exhibit one or more of the above traits. However, some of them can also be found on wild edibles. It is still best to be cautious of any plant you see in the wilderness – these characteristics are just overviews for you to consider if you’re unsure of what you’re dealing with. (MORE)
Source: Natural News
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