Today I created a new Facebook Group: Edible & Medicinal Plants of New Mexico. I know there were already several NM plant groups on Facebook, but those groups are focused on either gardening or identification. Both of which are great, but there wasn’t a group specific to discussing edible/medicinal/spiritual values or characteristics of New Mexico’s native and naturalized plants, which I’m particularly interested in. So the way I see it, there was a void to fill.
My intention for creating that digital space is to honor the traditional knowledge about New Mexico’s beloved remedios. Discussion about traditional uses, plant energetics, wildcrafting/foraging ethics, growing, etc. are all welcomed. And the use of indigenous, spanish, and english common names; and latin names will ALL be equally celebrated there – no superiority.
Social media has become the main go-to for information, so I’m not sure how many people read blogs anymore. But for those who prefer to stay off social media, I thought I may as well post the content I share in that group here as well.
Pictured: today I harvested thimbleberry leaves. Did you know they are related to raspberry (both share the genus Rubus) and have essentially the same medicinal properties? It’s much easier to harvest than their thorny cousins. Raspberry leaf has traditionally been used as a uterine tonic and offering female reproductive support. It’s also nutritionally beneficial as it has vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.