RAMPS

 
 

 

 

a sure sign of spring is the presence of ramps

 
 

Common Name:

Latin Name:

Family:

Season:

Location:

Identification:

Ramps, Wild Leeks

Allium tricoccum

Amarylidaceae

Spring

Carolinian forests

Two or three broad, smooth, green leaves measuring 1 to 4 inches wide and from 4 to 12 inches long, lance-elliptic in shape, narrowed at both ends. The stem is reddish, with a white bulb.

 
 
 

Ramps (Allium tricoccum) or wild leeks, have a pungent smell and flavour similar to that of garlic and onions.

 
 
 

Similarly to garlic, it is also rich in organosulfur compounds (allicin), allowing important hormones like DHEA (a steroid hormone that is a precursor to testosterone and estrogen) to become activated, and hormones to be balanced.

 
 
 

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES:

 

  • Enhances immunity

  • Anti-cancer

 

  • Cardiovascular protective

 
 
 

  • Anti-aging

  • Hormone balancing

 
 
 

SPRING X RAMPS

As the seasons change, the demands of our bodies shift and these should be met through a blend of dietary and lifestyle modifications that take into consideration the living conditions of the populace, which includes aspects of daily life, local climate, human relationships, and social milieu.

Spring is a season for transition.

Bodies acclimatize to colder weather and less sun during the winter. We tend to be more inward, emphasize comforts, and fuel our body with diets high in carbohydrates (seasonal produce accessible during winter are more starchy, root vegetables) and proteins that are suitable for our slowed metabolism to keep us warm. The bacteria in our gut are geared towards breakdown of these starchy foods. The liver also increases fat production and glucose is ramped up, to provide us warmth and energy through the winter months.

However if this pattern continues past the winter season, it is no longer productive and can reduce immunity, increase inflammation, and cause nutrient imbalances, which increases risk of seasonal health problems like depression and cold and flus, or chronic diseases including autoimmune disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.