OUTBACK SURVIVAL with BOB COOPER
Bush Plants and the Universal Taste Test W hen it comes to bush tucker from plants, we must be very precise about making sure that what we sample is the right plant and not a poisonous look-alike.
To minimise the risk of accidental poisoning I have developed seven steps that I call my 'Universal Taste Test'. I have personally found the poison indicators very useful in avoiding potential hazards from contact with toxic plants. This test is designed as part of a long-term survival strategy, to prevent accidental poisoning from utilising plants in a variety of ways, not just as an edibility test. When followed correctly it should prevent any mishaps with toxic plant parts worldwide; however, there are no guarantees.
Nine plant poison indicators.
You must carry out every step on the part of the plant you intend to use.
• Trumpet flowers
Firstly, the 'Look' Test
• Prickly fruits.
Actively look for poison indicators. There are exceptions, but if you don’t know the plant is an exception, then use the following physical indicators on any plant anywhere in the world as a very reliable guide as to whether the plant contains some form of toxin or not. These usually indicate poison in a plant: • Furry stems • Opposite leaves or leaflet shapes • Avoid all fungi • Milky coloured sap • Palmate leaves • Red seeds
• Pea flowers Second, the 'Smell' Test Crush the portion of the plant that you are considering eating or using and sniff it to detect aromatic odours. • Almond or peach-like odours are an indicator of natural cyanide. • Unpleasant odours indicate that the plant is usually not edible. Third, the 'Skin' Test If it looks and smells edible then crush a small portion of the plant (the part you are thinking of eating/using) and rub it onto your wrist, above where your watch band would be. Western 4W Driver #124 |
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