Lesser Celandine (Ficaria verna -- formerly ranunculus ficaria)

 (AKA fig buttercup ...and pilewort by some)

 

  "There is a Flower, the lesser Celandine,
    That shrinks, like many more, from cold and rain;
    And, the first moment that the sun may shine,
    Bright as the sun himself, 'tis out again!"
 

 ~The Small Celandine." William Wordsworth

This invasive perennial in the buttercup (ranunculus) family is native to Europe and Western Asia. 

It is considered noxious in some US states because it can be fatal to some livestock. It is toxic to humans if eaten raw, and can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive skin, but has medicinal and nutritional properties nonetheless. 

The young leaves have been used to treat hemorrhoids. 

The protoanemonin found in fresh leaves is an irritant and mildly toxic but is suggested to have antibacterial properties if used externally. 

Heating or drying neutralizes the toxin and it is then used for its antispasmodic and analgesic properties.

The roots were traditionally boiled, fried or roasted as a source of carbohydrates. 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9227133/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3365867/

 

 

 

 

Lesser Periwinkle, Dwarf Periwinkle (vinca minor)

Native to southern and central Europe and western Asia, it was 
introduced and naturalized in the northeast, midwest, and pacific northwest US.

This creeping periwinkle blooms early spring to summer. It is sometimes considered invasive because it can outcompete native plants by forming dense mats thriving in disturbed areas, woodlands, forest edges, and shaded areas. Because it grows so easily it is often used for erosion control and ground cover.

It does have medicinal benefits and 
although not edible raw due to toxic alkaloids, the main alkaloid, vincamine, has been shown to have an effect on circulation and cognition, improving mental clarity, memory and cognition. 

It acts as a mild vasodilator, enhances blood flow to the brain, 
and is used for conditions like poor circulation, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. 

Used in decoctions and extracts for migraines, headaches and vertigo, 
it has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. 

Leaf extracts were applied traditionally to reduce inflammation and to support overall wellness. 

It is also used topically on minor wounds and skin irritations. 

 

 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3813059/ (PMC)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8160922/ (PMC)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10671566/ (PMC)