STICKY WILD GERANIUM

I pitched my tent for a few nights in the foothills and was neighbor to a field full of Sticky Wild Geranium (Geranium viscosissimum). On first glance I found it rather plain, but the more I get to know it, I learn that it is actually incredibly fascinating.

It is edible. Flowers and leaves can be consumed raw. On this particular trip, I indulged in some local organic Alberta beef. Having these flowers so conveniently located provided me a chimichurri made from the young leaves. I prefer to use the young leaves as a replacement for parsley rather than treating it like a green leafy vegetable.

Medicinally, it has astringent properties, making it useful in the field. The roots can be made into a poultice for treatment of wounds, burns, and swelling. Infusions of the leaves can be made into a wash for sore and irritated eyes, or can be a drink to soothe sore throats.

Most interestingly, is considered to be a protocarnivorous plant, meaning that it traps and digests insects but is distinguished from being carnivorous because it is unknown if the plant is able to derive benefit from its consumption. The term "protocarnivorous" also implies that these plants may be on the evolutionary path to becoming true carnivorous plants.

Dr. Cristina Allen ND
Naturopathic Doctor