VALPARAISO Lawn mowing is a summertime activity most people either enjoy or dread.

No matter which, those who mow probably dont know they are passing over weeds often used to relieve ailments like skin disorders, asthma, arthritis, anxiety and depression.

Many plants considered weeds can be both edible and medicinal, said Niccole Anderson Schelling at Health in Your Backyard on Saturday at Sunset Hill Farm County Park.

Schelling, a wildcrafter and Reiki master teacher, discussed how to identify these weeds like dandelions, cleavers, creeping Charlie and plantain how to cook them and how to turn them into medicinal tinctures, salves and teas.

First, Schelling said, wildcrafters people who pluck medicinal plants from their lawns, sidewalk cracks, and woodsy perimeters should be conscientious consumers by researching books and reputable online websites, like those of the Journal of Herbal Medicine and the North American Institute of Medical Herbalism.

Proper plant identification is crucial, Schelling said, as some plants are poisonous, or toxic if taken with certain medications.

Just because its natural doesnt mean it wont kill you, said Schelling, of Valparaiso.

Pokeweed is an example, Schelling said.

Parts of it are poisonous, and parts of it are not. Or belladonna if you chomp on it, you will die, she said. Its better to err on the side of caution than get sick. Always check with your doctor before you do any of this.

While early spring dandelion leaves add vitamins A, B, C and K to a fresh salad, they are also used for skin and stomach issues and as a liver detoxifier. Mullien, which grows along country roads, is antibacterial and relieves respiratory issues. Plantain, profuse in lawns, soothes bug bites, bee stings and other skin irritations, while lemon balm can relieve insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Although the benefits of plant medicines are not backed by science, Schelling said proof that plants relieve common ailments is often anecdotal.

I know people who swear by creeping Charlie for respiratory issues, Schelling said. I have a friend who has not had an ER visit since using it on her kids with asthma.

Our ancestors relied on medicinal plants before manufactured medicines existed, but that knowledge, which was passed between generations, is dwindling, Schelling said.

Schellings interest derives from her fathers relatives, who are from the South.

My grandfather planted his garden by the moon, and my mamaw just knew stuff, Schelling said. Now, Im in the process of going on this herbal journey.

Doctors who practice integrative medicine, like Harvard-trained physician and author Dr. Andrew Weil, are well-versed in using plants as medicine, Schelling said. Because the discipline is becoming more well-known and popular, traditional physicians are learning more about using plants to heal.

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Weeds get bum rap, have medicinal merit - nwitimes.com