Growing Wild

In late summer wild sunflowers pop up along roadsides and in meadows across Northern Arizona. This one was seen growing along the side of historic... more

by Bonny Puckett

Title

Growing Wild

Artist

Bonny Puckett

Medium

Photograph - Photography

Description

In late summer wild sunflowers pop up along roadsides and in meadows across Northern Arizona. This one was seen growing along the side of historic Route 66 in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Wild sunflowers, also known as Helianthus annuus, are a plant species that is native to North America, including Arizona. They are commonly found growing in the wild throughout the state, often in open fields, along roadsides, and in other sunny locations.

The seeds of wild sunflowers are a popular food item and have been consumed by Indigenous peoples in the Americas for thousands of years. In Arizona, the seeds can be roasted, salted, and eaten as a snack, or ground into flour and used to make bread, cakes, and other baked goods. The young leaves and stems of the plant can also be cooked and eaten as a green vegetable, similar to spinach.

Wild sunflowers also have a long history of medicinal use by Indigenous peoples in the Americas. They contain a range of compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. In Arizona, the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin rashes, fevers, headaches, and respiratory infections. The plant is also believed to have diuretic properties and has been used to treat kidney and bladder problems.

Additionally, the seeds of wild sunflowers are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and are sometimes used in herbal medicine to promote overall health and well-being.

It's important to note that while wild sunflowers have a long history of use as a food and medicine, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before using any plant-based remedies. Additionally, it's important to ensure that any wild plants you consume or use for medicinal purposes are properly identified and harvested in a safe and sustainable manner.

Uploaded

September 9th, 2021