Disclaimer: Stay safe and be responsible!
This blog represents solely my views and personal experiences. It is not professional or medical advice, and is definitely not a substitute for doing your research, using field guides, going out with a professional teacher, and checking with qualified experts.
Proper identification is your responsibility. Never eat any wild food without correctly identifying it! Even then, only eat a small amount the first time you try it, as you may have an adverse/allergic reaction. Keep a sample to help with ID if you do have a reaction. Take extra care if you are pregnant/nursing, taking medication, or have existing allergies.
Be sensible! Don't pick from anywhere that may be contaminated. Dog walking areas, busy roads, industrial areas and watercourses where you can't identify what goes into it. Agricultural areas may be contaminated with pesticides and weed killers. ALWAYS wash your finds before ingesting.
Don't be greedy. Always leave enough for wildlife, and seeds to repopulate an area where you are picking. Take it all, and you only get it once. Exercise restraint, and you can enjoy it year after year. A good rule of thumb is never to take more than a third, and pick carefully to leave the plant intact. Remember to ask permission if you are foraging on private land.
