Fall is the time of year to collect seeds for eating, for medicine as well as to store for planting.
Seeds are among the most healthful foods in the plant world
~Seeds are high in fiber, monounsaturated fats and important vitamins and minerals.
~Many Seeds are also healing. They contain compounds that are used to heal or relieve symptoms.
~In Western Society seeds are often overlooked as a food or medicine source.
~Many Seeds are also healing. They contain compounds that are used to heal or relieve symptoms.
~In Western Society seeds are often overlooked as a food or source of medicine.
For Food: Soaking Seeds and NutsFor Food: Soaking Seeds and Nuts
~Seeds typically get moisture from the rain, which washes away enzyme inhibitors and acids. This allows the seeds to germinate.
~For eating and optimal nourishment, it is a traditional practice to soak seeds and nuts before preparing as food. In imitation of nature, this practice
neutralizes these growth inhibitors and releases the natural enzymes and nutrients in the seeds.
3 of My Favorite seeds to cook with are listed below. There are many more, and I will follow up on more recipes and seeds for health and nourishment. Also, look for classes and presentations that I offer on this topic.
Amaranth (Amaranthus spp)
Amaranth is a group of more than 60 different species of grains that have been cultivated for about 8,000 years. These grains were once considered a staple food in the Inca, Maya, and Aztec civilizations.
Today there is a variety available in many natural health food stores as a grain. We can also wild harvest amaranth seeds and many varieties of amaranth grown for the commercial market. In addition to the seeds, the leaves can be harvested and cooked as a vegetable or salad green. Amaranth is a good source of fiber, protein, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and several other important micronutrients.
Lamb’s Quarters (Chenopodium album)
Chenopodium quinoa is a closely related species which is grown specifically for its seeds and is commonly eaten as a grain. Lamb’s quarters while the seeds are smaller than quinoa, can be ingested similarly. Lamb’s quarter seeds can be cooked into other grains or on their own. it is delicious and nourishing.
Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) Seeds
Silver maple seeds are high in protein and fat. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron potassium, and calcium. They can be eaten roasted or ground into flour. They are also rich in Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids.
Stay tuned for more to come on seeds in future blog posts!
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