Foods from the sea have long been prized by native populations. Sea vegetables—seaweeds like kelp and dulse— were often transported far inland by native people as commodities of trade. Seaweeds are abundant in iodine and other minerals. They also contain mucilaginous fibers that absorb toxins, soothe irritated tissues, and act as bulk laxatives. They have also been used as fertilizers and seaweeds and extracts from them are also used in cosmetics and industry.
Don't overlook violets as a medicine, flower essence, and fragrance. They are aromatic and mucilaginous and act as a lymphatic tonic, expectorant, and diuretic. They're a good lymphatic herb and can help ease difficulty urinating and fight urinary tract infections.
Chickweed is one of those weedy plants that’s easy to overlook, yet is both edible and medicinal. It’s found in moist places typically near woods. When I’ve seen it in Utah it’s typically been growing around trees in more moist areas of the Western forests. This herb is not only edible as a food, it’s also a versatile remedy for a wide range of health problems.
Native to tropical areas such as Pakistan, India, and Malaysia, gotu kola has been used in Ayurvedic medicine, TCM, and herbal medicine in Southeast Asia as well as a food. It has been widely used as a brain tonic, wound healer and a remedy for skin conditions. It has mild adaptogenic qualities which can help with adrenal fatigue.
Bentonite clay can detoxify the body and improve skin and intestinal health and other clays can be used to help plants and control garden pests.
Pau d'arco is useful remedy for yeast and viral infections, cancer, and other immune problems. The bark of can be made into a useful decocted tea for fungal and yeast infections and other problems. It can also help balance intestinal flora to clear up many other health problems.
One of the tasty roots in home-made root beer, sarsaparilla can help clear the skin, balance hormones, and reduce inflammation. This makes it both a useful herb and flavoring agent in formulas for kids and adults alike.