Helping Families Learn Homesteading and Self-Sufficient Living
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Many people are unaware of the plethora of wild food and medicine that exists just in their backyard. There are still folks who classify dandelions as “weeds” and kill them at every turn. I have never understood why someone would want to take away the beauty this flower offers, but I haven’t always understood its value as food and medicine.
A simple walk through the Boreal forest illuminates the various flora and fauna who reside there. If you know what to look for, you will be able to harness the power of some of these wild plants to boost your health and remedy illness. In a time where pharmaceuticals are endless, it is important to remember the ways to make medicine from the plants that surround you. These 20 foraging plants are a great place to start and can all be found in the boreal forest and beyond.
It is unsafe to harvest plants, and especially mushrooms, if you aren’t absolutely sure. To prevent any unsafe mix ups, I use a guide on Alaska’s wilderness medicine and a separate guide on mushrooms. That way if I stumble upon something questionable, I am able to reference the experts.
Learning to work with the natural world to stay healthy provides immense connection. There is maybe no greater way to live a simple life than to grow or gather your own food. There are no crazy additives or fillers in the food from a forest. Just simple, clean food as nature intended.
There was once a time that it was common knowledge to know the medicinal plants around you. If there was an ailment beyond your scope, a doctor or healer, who specialized in medicine, would usually know what to use. Today this skill is lost except among those who still practice wildcrafting. Wildcrafting is the practice of harvesting herbs and plants from a natural environment to use for food or medicine.
There is a movement taking place that celebrates wildcrafting. It is leading to a shift in our desire to learn more about the natural world around us. People are moving towards natural methods of healing and eating. The desire to learn how to make medicine from the natural world is stronger now and it grows more every year.
It is important for humans to remember these lost skills so they are not forgotten completely. Wild-crafted medicine is beneficial to our bodies. Herbs and plants concocted in just the right methods work wonders for healing but also for prevention, which is the key to good health. When your body is healthy and you can make your own medicine, you consequently won’t have to rely on a doctor as much.
In this guide, we’ll explore 20 great beginner plants to get you started on your journey with wild medicine.
Gathering plants for medicine heals you twice. The first time is when you are walking through the forest. Nature therapy and fresh air are just as good as medicine. The second time is when you consume the medicine you’ve crafted from the forest. From trees and shrubs, to berries and mushrooms, these 20 plants are sure to give you a good place to start.
Spruce is used in several ways to heal different ailments. It packs a heavy punch of Vitamin C which is perfect in the Winter. The wonderful thing about Spruce trees is that they are an Evergreen tree and do not lose their needles once it is cold. This makes them perfect for Winter Foraging.
Spruce is antimicrobial against fungi and bacteria. Steeping their needles in water creates a wonderful tea that is perfect for the common cold or flu. Spruce “gum” or the resin can be used as a lozenge for cough and sore throat. It is also used as an antiseptic on wounds.
Most willows have been used as medicine for a very long time. The inner bark contains Salicin, the ingredient used to develop Aspirin in the 1800’s. It is especially helpful for headaches, colds, and fevers. You can make Willow Bark Aspirin that is comparable to the over the counter medicine, minus the other harmful ingredients.
Most parts of the Birch tree are medicinal and this makes them a wonderful beginner plant. The fresh smell of a Birch tree is divine. The twigs, leaves, and catkins can all be used to make a Vitamin C rich tea which is perfect in the Winter. Birch also contains a pain relieving compound , and similarly to the Willow has traditionally been used to treat pain. Birch syrup is still a luxury used in treating cough and colds. It is very important to learn ways of harvesting that do not harm the tree.
Also known as Black Cottonwood, this tree has a long history in treating lung ailments and skin problems. The buds are used internally to treat cough. They are used externally to treat inflammation and sprains. The bark can be ingested to soothe menstrual pain. It has long been used to treat rheumatism and scurvy. Harvest the fresh buds in early spring to make a salve, which is called Balm of Gilead, to treat sore muscles from summer work.
Highbush cranberry is found in dense thickets and moist or swampy forests. Also known as “cramp bark,” the name speaks for itself. Because it is antispasmodic, it acts as a muscle relaxant. A tea from the bark eases menstrual cramps and stomach troubles. The leaves are used in treating sore throats. It is one of the easiest shrubs to find here in Alaska and grows in abundance in many places.
One of our personal favorites in my home are Wild Roses. These gorgeous flowers bloom in the Summer and offer the most beautiful sights across the Boreal landscape. The leaves are traditionally used in salads and teas and the rose hips left behind after the flower disappears are very high in Vitamins A and C. Steeping rose hips in hot water makes a delicious floral tea that eases coughs and colds.
This beautiful flowering shrub grows well in the swampy thickets among Black Spruce trees. Labrador tea has long been used as a tea to help ease sore throat, chest congestion, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. The leaves and flowering shoots are edible and medicinal.
What better beginner’s plant to forage than Blueberry? It is easily identifiable and most people already know the flavor profile. Blueberry leaves pack more of an antioxidant punch than the berries do and so blueberry leaf tea is a great way to fight free radical damage. Between the berries and leaves, there are many uses such as treating neurodegenerative diseases and fighting inflammation. It is also beneficial in fighting Urinary Tract Infections.
These edible and medicinal berries are used in a variety of ways. Tea from the leaves is beneficial in treating colds. Tea from the berries treats kidney problems. Just simply chewing the leaves provides relief from a sore throat and eating the berries helps an upset stomach. Lingonberries are a popular cuisine among Alaskans and other countries in the far north such as Scandinavia. The berries are prepared into a jam to enjoy long after they disappear for Winter.
Another great beginner’s plant to forage and one of our personal favorites is Dandelion. They are hard to miss and grow in abundance almost anywhere that plants can grow. Dandelion is nature’s nutritional powerhouse with vitamins A, B, C, and D as well as potassium, iron, and zinc. Every part of the dandelion is useful: the flowers, roots, and leaves.
It is traditionally used to treat kidney and digestion issues. The leaves make a lovely addition to salads and the flowers make delicious jelly that tastes similar to honey. Traditional Chinese medicine uses dandelion for breast milk production.
Yarrow has its roots in European folk medicine. It is particularly beneficial in treating wounds and minor bleeding. A poultice made of this herb speeds wound recovery times and eases inflammation. The flowers, stems, and leaves are all used to make medicine. It is powerful for fighting infections and reducing bleeding. The beautiful blooms of Yarrow can be found between June to September in a Boreal forest.
This versatile herb can be found in a variety of places and grows abundant in the Boreal forest. The leaves are used in a tea to treat coughing and respiratory issues like Bronchitis. The leaves can also be crafted into a poultice to treat blisters, sores, burns, and insect stings, and inflamed skin. Similar to Yarrow, Plantain is also great for wound healing applications.
Red Clover has been studied for it’s many benefits in menopausal women. The isoflavones that it contains are similar in structure to Estrogen and offer numerous medical benefits. They have been shown to reduce hot flashes and also blood cholesterol levels. Other studies have shown the benefits of Red Clover for bone structure in menopausal women. Besides being medically beneficial, the tea made of Clover is wonderfully aromatic.
Fireweed is best to collect right after it begins blooming. You can harvest from where the leaves begin on the stem and up. Boiling this plant makes a tea that is beneficial for digestion, lung, and bronchial ailments. Fireweed is rich in magnesium, manganese, vitamin B6, niacin, folate, calcium, and vitamin A. Because of the high level of antioxidants, this herb is great for the circulatory, immune, and digestive system.
This herb is one of our Summer favorites because of its surprising burst of pineapple flavor. It is a powerful herb used for identical purposes as cultivated chamomile. Wild chamomile is perfect for relaxation and digestion. It can be used to treat fevers and relieve pain. The tea from chamomile is perfectly enjoyed after meals to aid in digestion and in the evenings to promote restful sleep.
One of the most abundant mushrooms and one you can find in any season are Birch Polypores. They naturally grow only on Birch trees. There is a long surviving history of humans using these mushrooms. They are incredibly useful in treating intestinal parasites. It has long been used as a tonic for the immune system and an antiseptic to treat wounds. It has antiviral, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
Chaga is the gold mine of mushrooms in Northern climates. It is the one that everyone seeks to find growing on the bark of Birch trees. Chaga has been used for centuries to boost immunity and health overall. You can usually find it ground into powder and used in teas.
Its health benefits are so potent that you can find this mushroom over the counter in a health food store. The modern uses of Chaga include fighting inflammation, immunity booster, aids in preventing and fighting cancer, and helps to lower blood sugar and cholesterol.
If you are lucky enough to find this gem in a Boreal Forest, then thank your lucky stars. Finding Chaga has been my biggest challenge as one who wildcrafts medicine.
Arriving in early Spring, Morels boasts a pleasant taste sought after by wild food enthusiasts. They contain pleasant flavor and medicinal value, so consequently they’ve been used as traditional medicine for centuries. Modern research has demonstrated their medically potent qualities to back it up.
They contain some of the highest levels of Vitamin D among all the edible mushrooms. Morels are high in antioxidants and have been used to treat tumors. It has been identified that Morels are exceptionally great for our livers, helping to relieve our bodies of toxins and free radicals that cause heart disease, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease.
The most common way to ingest Morels is to simply cook them into your favorite meals, but a tea can also be prepared to enjoy its benefits. It is important to cook Morels before consuming as they contain a small amount of toxins that can be harmful if eaten raw in large quantities.
These tasty mushrooms love moist areas, and can usually be found after a nice rainfall. They love to hide around creeks and other moist areas. Just like many other mushrooms, Chanterelles are anti-inflammatory and help lower the risk of cancer. They contain plenty of chitin and chitosan, polysaccharides that help protect cells from damage and stimulate new cell production.
The most common form of ingesting Chanterelle is to simply eat them with your favorite dishes. A sautee of buttery Chanterelles is some of the finest food you can consume. A tea can also be made from dried Chanterelles and consumed for its wonderfully beneficial qualities.
Another tasty mushroom sought after by wild food eaters is the Oyster mushroom. It can be identified by its gills that run all the way from the top of the mushroom and down the stem.
It has been traditionally used for treating high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer, and certain infections.
Just like Chanterelle, the Oyster mushroom makes a lovely sautee in butter. Tea is another powerful way to consume this mushroom when it is dried.
Mushroom teas pack a powerful punch. Teas made from various dried mushrooms are popular in use as tonics for immune and overall health.
There are many wild foods to be found in a Boreal forest, especially during the warmer months. Many combine as food and medicine, which works hand in hand with what Hippocrates said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”
When you are able to create simple foods and medicines from the forest, your health is taken back into your own hands. Whether you are a beginner with foraging or a master wild crafter of food and medicine, these 20 plants of the Boreal forest hold wonderfully medicinal value and can add flavor and health to your life.
If you are on the path to live simply, by growing and collecting your own food, living seasonally, and traditional skills, then you’ll love these other articles from Borealis Mom:
Here are some of my favorite recipes and tips on foraging for wild medicine:
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Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the woman who gave you life. If your mom has a love for adventure, then finding the ideal gift can be overwhelming. While bouquets and chocolates have their charm, they can’t compare to the excitement of a gift that matches her spirit. These ten unique Mother’s Day gift ideas are sure to surprise her and make her feel appreciated. From a portable hammock to a waterproof hiking shoe, our article will guide you to the perfect gift for the adventurous mom in your life.
Even if you are just looking to get yourself something, this guide is still handy! There’s so many benefits to being an outdoorsy mama, buying yourself neat outdoorsy gear is just one of them.
The first of my Mother’s Day gift ideas for the mom who loves spending time outdoors is an outdoor cooking set. No need to be an expert griller to enjoy cooking over an open flame. An outdoor cooking set can take her outdoor dining experience to the next level.
Look for a set that includes a portable grill or stove, as well as utensils and cookware designed specifically for outdoor cooking. Bonus points if the set is compact and easy to pack for camping trips or other outdoor adventures.
Plus, with an outdoor cooking set, your mom can whip up delicious meals while enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh air. It’s the perfect way for her to relax and unwind after a day of hiking, kayaking, or any other outdoor activity.
An adventurous mom loves spending time outdoors, which means she’ll need gear that can keep up. From cooking sets to camping tents, there are plenty of Mother’s Day gift ideas out there that will make her next adventure even better. But what about when the sun sets and it’s time to wind down? A gift that will take her relaxation to the next level is an outdoor wireless speaker.
This gift will allow her to enjoy high-quality sound while surrounded by nature. She can listen to her favorite music or podcasts without having to worry about cords or connections. It’s also incredibly easy to use. All she has to do is connect her device via Bluetooth and she’s good to go.
If your adventurous mom is planning a hiking trip, then waterproof hiking shoes are a must-have. These shoes are designed to withstand rough terrain and keep her feet dry, even during the wettest weather conditions. Not only will they protect her feet from the elements, but they’ll also provide her with the necessary support for a long day of hiking.
Choosing a pair of waterproof hiking shoes is not an easy task. There are various factors that come into play, such as foot size and arch shape. However, some features are necessary to consider for a good pair of hiking shoes, such as sturdy soles, ample arch support, and waterproofing. With an excellent pair of hiking shoes, your mom can tackle any terrain that comes her way.
Once your mom has found the perfect pair of hiking shoes, the next thing to consider is hydration. All that walking and exploring will make her thirsty, and carrying a water bottle can be cumbersome. That’s why a hydration backpack is a great gift idea for the adventurous mom. These backpacks come with built-in hydration systems that allow her to drink water hands-free. No need to stop and dig through her bag to find a water bottle or take off her backpack every time she needs a drink.
For the mom who enjoys staying active and keeps track of her fitness goals, a fitness tracker watch is a fantastic gift idea. These watches not only track steps, but also monitor heart rate, calories burned, and even sleep patterns. Your mom can stay on top of her health goals and make sure she’s getting the most out of her activities.
Not only do these watches offer a practical solution for fitness tracking, they come in a variety of stylish designs. From sleek and modern to more classic and traditional, there’s a fitness tracker watch to fit your mom’s personal style. Some even offer smartphone connectivity, providing access to GPS and other advanced features.
For the adventurous mom who loves to document her travels, a selfie stick is the perfect addition to her travel gear. It allows her to take photos from unique angles and perspectives, capturing every moment of her journey. Whether she’s exploring a city or hiking through nature, a selfie stick ensures that she can get the perfect shot every time.
But taking photos is only part of the adventure. A truly adventurous mom also wants to preserve those memories in a special way. That’s where the adventure photo album comes in.
A truly adventurous mom knows that taking photos is only the first step in documenting her travels. She also wants to keep those memories safe and sound. That’s where the adventure photo album comes in.
This Mother’s Day, give her the gift of a beautiful book to store all her most cherished moments. Not only will she love looking back on all her past adventures in one place, but she’ll also relish the opportunity to fill up its pages with new memories. And when she’s ready to reminisce, she’ll have a perfect memento to share with friends and family.
Another great way for an adventurous mom to document her travels is with a travel journal. While photos capture the big moments, a journal allows her to jot down every detail of her experiences. With each entry, she’ll be able to relive her journeys and keep track of all the amazing places she’s been.
Our next gift idea is perfect for moms who love to combine two of their favorite things – yoga and the great outdoors. An outdoor yoga mat is a wonderful gift that allows her to connect with herself and nature in a more personal way. With its non-slip surface and thick cushioning, it provides a comfortable foundation for her yoga practice, no matter where she chooses to roll it out – on the beach, in the park, or even in her own backyard.
Not only is yoga a great way to stay healthy and balanced, but it also helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Being surrounded by nature only enhances these benefits, allowing her to fully immerse herself in the present moment and let go of any worries or distractions. Plus, an outdoor yoga session is a great opportunity to take some time for herself and just breathe.
For the mom who loves to spend time outdoors, a portable hammock is sure to be a hit. After a long day of hiking, camping or exploring, there’s nothing more relaxing than lounging in a hammock. The best part? A portable hammock can easily be taken on the go, making it the perfect addition to any outdoor adventure. Whether your mom wants to relax by the beach, in the park or in the mountains, a portable hammock provides a comfortable and convenient way to do so.
But how do you choose the right hammock for your adventurous mom? Look for one that’s lightweight and easy to pack, yet sturdy enough to support her weight. There are even hammocks designed specifically for camping, with features like mosquito netting and rain fly covers to keep her comfortable and protected while she sleeps. With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect portable hammock for your mom is a breeze.
In conclusion, this Mother’s Day, don’t settle for the same old gifts. Give your adventurous mom something she’ll truly treasure with our top ten unique gift ideas. From a portable hammock to an outdoor yoga mat, there’s something for every type of adventurer.
Remember, this day is about showing your appreciation for all that your mom has done for you, and what better way to do that than with a thoughtful and creative gift? So start shopping now and make this Mother’s Day one that she’ll never forget. After all, as Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
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Are you planning on visiting the wonderful Golden Heart City of Fairbanks, Alaska and are looking for kid friendly activities? If you are wanting to visit Alaska, chances are that you are an outdoorsy family because outdoor recreation abounds in this beautiful place. Hiking is one of the easiest and cheapest kid friendly outdoor opportunities here. Read on to learn about 5 easy, kid friendly hikes around Fairbanks, Alaska.
Maybe you are planning a visit to Fairbanks or maybe you are already a resident and are looking to get out and explore the trails. This guide will be a great starting point. If you are looking for a more remote experience that still offers an easy trail, Castner Glacier is the place to go. I have an entire Ultimate Guide for driving there from Fairbanks, as well as what gear to pack, and what it is like to actually hike to the cave itself.
The trails I am discussing in this article are based in or right around Fairbanks, Alaska and are easily accessible for anyone.
First up, nestled inside the city itself is the hidden gem, Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary. This nature reserve is preserved by the Wedgewood resort and boasts two beautiful scenic walking trails that connect around a small lake.
These trails are rated as some of the easiest to walk in both the Summer and Winter. The groomed trails are accessible even to the youngest of hikers, no snow shoes needed!
Wedgewood is an excellent place to watch wildlife, especially birds. Wildlife roams abundant through this rich boreal forest. From squirrels, beavers, and moose, there are plenty of chances to catch a glimpse and snap a picture of the wild life thriving here.
The .7 mile Taiga trail heads West of the lake through a forest of Birch trees and White Spruce and towards a large observation deck overlooking the lake.
The Wander Lake Trail wraps around the lake for a scenic 2 mile walk. There is a photography blind to capture pictures of the wildlife like the birds who frequent the lake.
Each season will capture the beauty of Alaska. From Aurora viewing in Winter to enjoying the midnight sun in the Summer. This place will offer one of the easiest hikes around Fairbanks, Alaska without having to leave the city.
Connected to Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary is Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. The former dairy farm operation turned into a wildlife refuge for migrating birds in 1966 and provides 1800 acres of prime wildlife viewing among it’s various trails.
There are a variety of habitats at Creamer’s Field including wetlands, boreal forests, and large grassy fields. Located just off of College Road in Fairbanks, it provides easy access to many acres of beautiful landscape and wildlife.
Enjoy this easy hike on one of its various trails, including the Boreal Forest trail, Seasonal Wetland trail, and Farm Road trail. To gain a better view, you can climb one of the observation towers along the trail and get a bird’s eye view of the fields and forests.
Creamer’s Field has multiple outdoor recreation opportunities so it’s common to see cross country skiers along with dog sled and Skijoring teams. A wonderful place during both Winter and Summer, you don’t want to miss this easy and scenic route, one of the most accessible hikes around Fairbanks, Alaska.
On the edge of town, surrounded by approximately 750 acres of wilderness, is the Tanana Lakes Recreation area. This place is the perfect place to spend the day because it has multiple trails.
There are 3 notable short hikes in this area. Firstly, upon arriving at the park entrance, the Chickadee trail (0.19 miles) and Flicker trail (0.56 miles) are right up front. With quick and easy access, these are great starter trails.
You’ll walk alongside the front of Cushman Lake and enjoy the pleasant sight of birds and other wildlife. There is a mix of White Spruce and Birch along with wild shrubs and plants. Moss and Arctic Roses cover the Spruce forest floor. There are breaks through the trees with spectacular views of the lake.
Secondly, after the first two trails at the front you have Eagle Trail. The Eagle trail is on the back side of Cushman Lake and is 0.66 miles long. This is another short and easy hike to add to the list of kid friendly hikes around Fairbanks, Alaska.
Adjacent to North Pole City Hall is the hidden gem, Beaver Springs Slough Nature Trail. This 0.8 mile trail stretches through the heart of the city. Along its path is Beaver Springs Creek which is abundant in beavers and muskrats. You’ll be surprised at the amount of wildlife to be found right in the center of the city.
The forest surrounding this nature trail is full of paper birch and white spruce trees. Like the other trails, there is lush forest undergrowth consisting of wild roses, fireweed, and other beautiful flowering plants in the Summer.
There are two ways to access this trail. One trail head is adjacent to City Hall. Additionally, the other is located at the 5th Avenue Park. The fact that there is a park at this trail is another beneficial factor to get the kids involved! This is one of my family’s favorites because they get to play at the park when we are done with the hike. There is no better motivation than a park for kids.
This loop trail is located out of North Pole, Alaska at the Chena Lakes Recreation area. There are actually 3 different trails along this loop. Among them, the inner loop is the shortest and is 2.6 miles long. It is an easy trail that follows along the Chena River.
Along the trail are guide signs to let you know that you are on the right track. There are also wooden educational signs that teach about the flora and fauna that live there. Opportunities to see wildlife abound in this area. For example, we once even spotted a lynx while out on this trail!
In addition, the unique location of this trail allows you to view the succession of plants along the river. River Willows give way to the Poplar, Spruce, and Birch trees that make up the Boreal forest that the trail winds through.
This is a perfect trail and by far my family’s favorite of the easier trails. It is not too long or too short, but is just right.
To sum up, you just can’t visit this beautiful city without walking on at least one trail. Most of these that I have listed are short so they are doable during the Winter with proper gear. As a mama who loves to explore and adventure, I understand the usual barriers to hiking with kids. Unless you hike regularly, the trails will need to be short and sweet. There are also bonus points if there is a fun park at the end to play at like the one in the center of North Pole.
My passion for hiking is immense. Consequently, my kids have developed a love for it too. I thoroughly enjoy taking my kids on my adventures with me. I know that we are making memories and they will be cherished forever. It isn’t always easy, but there are ways to find adventure as a mama who loves the outdoors.
Whether you are just visiting or already live in Fairbanks, I hope this guide for easy starter trails will get you in the right direction for the experience of a lifetime. As Werner Herzog put it, “The world reveals itself to those who travel on foot.” Check out Fairbanks from a new perspective on your next visit.
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