Vitamin C, say where?

Did you know that there is now a label for those who are nature-deprived? This seems insane to me considering all the health benefits one can gain by simply being outside!With the spring weather, the warm sunshine, the chirp of the birds, I feel drawn to bask in the beauty of nature!

Several years ago, I went foraging for wild, edible mushrooms but while out in the woods I also learned to identify some other wild edible foods.  One of my favorites you can find on just about any street, in any neighborhood or park in Louisville, is that of the blossoms of the Eastern Redbud Tree.  Each time I go walking I always stop to indulge in the tiny little flowers of the redbud tree!

The picture above captures a branch of red, pink, magenta blossoms found in late March and April.  These flowers are fun to just pop in your mouth, savor for a moment and then chew up!  They offer a refreshing burst of flavor, what I consider to taste like a mix of celery and a green apple.  “According to a study published in Economic Botany, redbud flowers were found to have a significantly higher vitamin C content than most common domesticated fruits and vegetables , including oranges. (Debbie, Thomas M. and Ogzewalla C. Dwayne. Ascorbic Acid and Vitamin A Content of Edible Wild Plants of Ohio and Kentucky.)”

The next time you take a walk, consider trying some for yourself.  They also can add a great splash of color to your next fresh green salad!