Edible and Medicinal Plants, A Survival Guide
In a survival situation, plants can provide food and medicine. Their safe usage requires absolutely
positive identification, knowing how to prepare them for eating, and knowing any dangerous
properties they might have. Familiarity with botanical structures of plants and information on
where they grow will make them easier to locate and identify.
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Abal
Calligonum comosum
Description:
The abal is one of the few shrubby plants that exists in the shady deserts. This plant grows to
about 1.2 meters, and its branches look like wisps from a broom. The stiff, green branches
produce an abundance of flowers in the early spring months (March, April).
Habitat and Distribution:
This plant is found in desert scrub and waste in any climatic zone. It inhabits much of the North
African desert. It may also be found on the desert sands of the Middle East and as far eastward as
the Rajputana desert of western India.
Edible Parts:
This plant's general appearance would not indicate its usefulness to the survivor, but while this
plant is flowering in the spring, its fresh flowers can be eaten. This plant is common in the areas
where it is found. An analysis of the food value of this plant has shown it to be high in sugar and
nitrogenous components.
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Acacia
Acacia farnesiana
Description: Acacia is a spreading, usually short tree with spines and alternate compound leaves.
Its individual leaflets are small. Its flowers are ball-shaped, bright yellow, and very fragrant. Its
bark is a whitish-gray color. Its fruits are dark brown and podlike.
Habitat and Distribution:
Acacia grows in open, sunny areas. It is found throughout all tropical regions. Note: There are
about 500 species of acacia. These plants are especially prevalent in Africa, southern Asia, and
Australia, but many species are found in the warmer and drier parts of America.
Ed