Garlic Mustard; alliaria petiolata is a wild, edible green that happily grows throughout the world. From Africa and Asia to the British Isles and North America, garlic mustard is found scattered among woodlands, roadsides, and hedges (aka. hedge garlic, jack-by-the-hedge).
Although from the mustard family, garlic mustard takes its name from its slight garlic odor and taste.
All parts of the plant are edible. The tender leaves and flowers are a beautiful addition to any salad. The leaves and stems may be consumed raw, sauteed, steamed, or baked. Garlic mustard seeds may be collected and used as a condiment. Lastly, the pungent roots may be harvested in autumn and used as a substitute for horseradish.
As with all mustard greens, garlic mustard is bitter, thus, a tonic to the body.
They are low in calories and brimming with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
Other benefits of garlic mustard may include, but are not limited to, respiratory health, anticarcinogenic properties, menopausal symptoms, and bone protection.
Please do, consult a field guide, harvest in areas free of pesticides, and use conscious harvesting practices.
Happy harvesting!!
Photography by, Natryl1
